AS A conductor and musical director, Richard Cock, is a familiar figure. Brendan Peacock asks him how he conducts his financial affairs

Are you good with money or irresponsible?

I am good with money — I am a saver.

What did your childhood teach you about money?

I was very good at saving from when I was a little boy. I had a pink post office book into which I put all the money gifts I was given for birthdays and Christmas, and from the age of eight I dealt with my own savings, instructed by my mother.

What is your biggest extravagance or vice?

I probably spend most on books and music. I love reading. I am not extravagant.

What is the one thing you wish you had never bought? And your best buy?

I don’t have anything I wish I had never bought, apart from cramped seats on aeroplanes over long distances. The best buy was our house, which has increased in value by 2750% over 27 years.

Have you learnt any important lessons about money through mistakes?

I have been very cautious with money, so I don’t often make mistakes.

What was the best money advice you were ever given?

As a child, I was taught that “if you don’t have the money, you can’t buy it”.

What kind of car do you drive and do you rate cars in terms of practicality, speed or looks?

I drive a Toyota Avensis. It has to be large enough to carry the musical instruments and stands that I have, as well as be comfortable on long journeys. Speed, looks and colour are not important to me.

How do you invest?

I have a share portfolio, fixed deposits and a flat in Cape Town, which is rented out.

Have you ever been in debt?

I have never been in debt, other than when we bought our house, and I paid it off as fast as I could.

Are you an easy tipper?

I am —15%.

Do you manage your own financial affairs?

I do.

What is the worst thing you have done for money — that “never again” moment?

I performed at a truckers’ convention. We were performing with a small orchestra, expecting a small audience, but turned up to find more than 1000 rowdy, beer-drinking truckers who were not quite into classical music.

• This article was first published in Sunday Times: Business Times