What age did you start playing music?
As early as 2 years old, I was always beating on pots and pans while my Dad was private teaching his Band students. Needless to say, that was the beginning of everything. The Soprano Sax came next and led to the Piano and Trumpet. The Horn became a part of my life in the seventh grade.
When did you know that you wanted to pursue music professionally?
I heard a recording of Dennis Brain in the 7th grade and that same year I also met and heard Barry Tuckwell perform a Mozart Concerto. It had a huge influence on me at that point.
If you could program a TSO concert, what music would you select and why?
José Luis has started to enter that domain!! I love Latin American composers. Their pieces are colorful, rhythmic and purposeful. If I can’t do that, Mahler never disappoints!! I also love the symphonies of Franz Joseph Haydn. I would love to see the TSO start a Haydn cycle. He was a master teacher and an elegant composer!!
Which concert have you enjoyed the most this season and why?
Again, Mahler rocks!! Mahler 3 was a joy! However, I don’t think there was a concert I didn’t enjoy prepping.
Which concert are you most looking forward to in the upcoming season?
Mahler Rocks!! Mahler 6. Richard Strauss-Death and Transfiguration.
What do you love about the horn?
The horn possesses the depth of sound that resembles the human voice! It can take you through a range of sounds and colors that always have you intrigued and curious.
As a veteran member of the TSO, what are some of your favorite TSO memories?
The memories with TSO are far too many to list. Obviously, my very first concert which had Strauss Ein Heldenleben on it will always be special. However, this merry Band of Musicians (TSO) has always risen above and given this community something to be proud of. After 35+ years, I’m always excited to share the stage with my colleagues.
What do you love about Tucson?
I was raised in the desert!! I love the sunshine and what it does to my psyche. I found my wife, raised my family, watched them flourish in this community. I can’t think of anywhere else I would fit. Tucson has been and continues to be, very good to me!