Q: What started your love for music, and how old were you at the time?

A: I have always been surrounded by music. My grandmother, who unfortunately passed before I was born, was a Yiddish folk singer. My mother Bira Rabushka is a violinist; my father Georges Haas was a world famous oboist; and my stepfather Joseph Rabushka is also a violinist. I was raised listening to classical music. I was lucky enough to be able to attend and sit in the pit of my parents' orchestra of the world famous New York City Ballet. At the age of six, I was allowed to climb through the pit door to watch the ballets. Being able to combine music and dance opened my mind and body to musical expression. Even today, when I listen to the radio, I can hear the vast repertoire of the NYCB. I remember the dancers, picture the movements, sets and costumes, and most of the time, I can name the composer. At home, we listened to all musical genres. Folk music such as