What age did you start playing music?
I started piano lessons in preschool, then added cello lessons in kindergarten.
When did you know that you wanted to pursue music professionally?
I actually stepped back from music at the end of high school. Then in college I picked up cello lessons again just for fun. Ironically, removing that pressure renewed my focus and love for music and I switched my major to cello performance in my sophomore year of undergrad.
If you could program a TSO concert, what music would you select and why?
I would start with Finlandia by Sibelius because it has such beautiful, lush harmonies in the middle with such a satisfying ending. Then I would go to Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition. It’s always so much fun to play and reminds me of Halloween, my favorite holiday! I would end the concert with the Firebird Suite by Stravinsky. The first time I played it, I was blown away by how much he pushed the sounds and capabilities of what an orchestra can do. It also has a lot of special significance for my wife and I.
What is your favorite performance of your career?
It’s a tie between two Mahler symphonies with the TSO: No. 2, “Resurrection,” and No. 3. I love the moment in no. 2 when the orchestra finally takes a break for the choir to make its first entrance. As for no. 3, I first performed it when I was 9 in the children’s chorus with the Cincinnati Symphony. Thanks to the TSO, now I’ve been able to play in the orchestra as well!
Which performance are you most looking forward to with the TSO and why?
Another Mahler, but I’m looking forward to performing his 6th symphony in February so I can add one more to my Mahler bingo card!
What do you love about the cello?
It has such a great range, from rich booming lows to beautiful epic highs. And I don’t ever have to march while I play!
As a new member of the TSO, what are some of things you are most excited to experience with the orchestra?
I love how focused everyone is. I’m looking forward to making great music with my new coworkers.
What’s something about being a professional musician that might surprise people?
If you don’t love long tones and scales, you might be in trouble….
What do you love about Tucson?
Arizona’s natural landscape is breathtaking but I absolutely love all the older buildings that are still around. They give Tucson such great character!