Each month in the Orchestra’s Playbill, we feature one musician in a question-and-answer segment. Below is that feature in its entirety.
Where were you born? I was born in Dallas, TX, but I grew up in Richmond, IN. What piece of music could you play over and over again? Prokofiev’s Fifth Symphony.
What is your most treasured possession? I’m not terribly materialistic. Of course I have several trombones I treasure, but I’m also addicted to my phone like many people!
What’s your favorite Philadelphia restaurant? While I’m not a vegan or vegetarian, I love Vedge.
Tell us about your instrument. I currently play a Bach trombone with Edwards trombone parts custom fit—I call it my Bachwards trombone.
What’s in your instrument case? My alma mater Indiana University towel, slide lubricants, a practice mute.
If you could ask one composer one question what would it be? I might ask Brahms for his take on current interpretations of his music: too Romantic, too Classical, just right?
What piece of music never fails to move you? There are many choices: The second movement of Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G major comes to mind.
When did you join the Orchestra? In 1999.
Do you play any other instruments? Euphonium, a little piano.
What’s your favorite type of food? Brownies.
What books are on your nightstand? Bourbon: The Rise, Fall, and Rebirth of American Whiskey—hard copy.
Do you speak any other languages? Ich hat ein bisschen Deutsch gelernt [I learned a bit of German].
Do you follow any blogs? I intermittently follow several musician and trombonist blogs. Do you have any hobbies? Not really, I do some gardening, skiing, exercising.
Do you have a favorite movie? Revenge of the Nerds.
Is there a piece of music that isn’t in the standard orchestral repertoire that should be? I’m surprised the Berlioz Romeo and Juliet isn’t performed more often.
What’s the last recording you purchased? CD or download? I listen to a wide variety of music through Napster streaming service.
What’s on your iPod? Mostly pop music and Broadway tunes, even some Tenacious D.
When was the first time you heard The Philadelphia Orchestra? I heard the Orchestra on many recordings since I was in high school. The first time I heard them live was just after winning the audition to join the Orchestra—a performance of Mahler’s Ninth Symphony at Carnegie Hall.
Other than Verizon Hall, where is your favorite place to perform? Carnegie Hall is always a joy to play in.
Photo by Jessica Griffin