Paul Hillier

Are you a saver or a spender?

Neither. I spend money when I am sure it is something I want, need, deserve, and will go on enjoying. But as I am rarely sure of all these things, I tend not to spend.

Do you shop around for better value?

Not really. Usually, I buy something because I’m afraid that hesitation will cause me to change my mind.

What has been your most extravagant purchase ever and how much did it cost?

Occasional restaurant meals that were so expensive I have buried the memory of what they actually cost.

What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?

Numerous books that I bought relatively cheaply and which continue to give me delight – both to read and to look at.

Have you ever crossed the Border to shop?

I live in Denmark mostly but naturally travel a lot for work, including spending much time in Ireland for the National Chamber Choir of Ireland. In general, I would not have the time to cross any border to shop for something, but this is where online shopping helps.

Do you haggle over prices?

Once in Istanbul, where the discussion ended with a friendly cup of coffee, and again in Jerusalem where it didn't.

Has the recession changed your spending habits?

Not at all. Working in the arts and music lifestyle budgets have always been tight.

Do you invest in shares?

No.

Cash or card?

In Denmark paying even for a cup of coffee by card is perfectly normal, so card, usually. The National Chamber Choir of Ireland is taking a tour of Ireland right now so I expect the card will come in handy.

What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?

I bought a pile of music scores recently at McCullough Pigott. At the moment I am very pleased with these purchases, but only time will tell me if they were good value, i.e. if I actually use the scores in performance.

Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?

Not really. By not spending at every turn I feel that I accumulate permission from myself to buy something when I know I really should.

Have you ever lost money?

I think so.

Are you a gambler and if so have you ever had a big win?

I never could see the point when the odds are so against you.

Is money important to you?

Not really, provided I have enough to continue making music for a living, to buy books, and to have time at home in the countryside.

How much money do you have on you now?

No cash, just two cards.

Paul Hillier is artistic director of the National Chamber Choir of Ireland. The National Chamber Choir of Ireland is currently on national tour – for further details visit nationalchamberchoir.com.

In conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea