Played with the PSO since: 2022
At what age did you start playing the instrument you play in the PSO? Did you learn another instrument first?
I started cello at 12 years through the public school systems modified Suzuki program.
What do you like about playing with a symphony orchestra?
There is nothing like the different characteristics, power, and colors that a symphonic orchestra can produce. The collaborative aspects are engaging. Not to discount other forms of classical music, in addition to the collaborative aspects there is an intimacy that chamber music elicits which can also be very powerful. I also enjoy the unique challenges of opera and musical theater.
What is your favorite piece to play on cello?
That’s like asking to choose your favorite child. In the symphonic realm, I do have preferences towards the romantic and post-romantic periods such as Brahms, Dvorak, and Prokofiev. For the cello literature, there’s nothing like Bach solo suites.
Do you play with other groups?
I’m a long-time member of Vista Philharmonic,
formerly The Orchestra of Indian Hill. Other groups I’ve played with
include Rhode Island Philharmonic, Springfield Symphony, New Mexico
Symphony, Chamber Orchestra of Santa Fe, and Pro Arte Chamber Orchestra.
How do you spend your time outside of the PSO?
During my spare time, I indulge my penchant for homesteading through soap making, baking sourdough bread and making different types of cheese. I’m an avid cyclist and have a black belt in Aikido.
Tell us about your musical education.
My teachers include Mischa Nieland, Leslie Parnas at Boston University, and Joanna deKeyser at the University of New Mexico.
