I studied violin with former Louisville Orchestra concertmaster Paul Kling while I completed my degree in Music Theory. After joining the Louisville Orchestra, I followed an interest in electronics and after a couple years of independent study I earned a First Class FCC license in Broadcast Engineering. This led to work as an audio engineer in a local recording studio. Eventually there were too many schedule conflicts and I chose to remain in the orchestra. I then became personnel manager of the orchestra for a decade in the 1990's. After leaving that position, I remained in the orchestra but took up independent study in computer electronics. I sat for CompTIA exams and became certified as a computer technician, mainly to persue my own interests.

 

What do you enjoy most about performing with the Louisville Orchestra?

It is inspiring to perform for an enthusiastic audience.

In what ways do you think the Louisville Orchestra can make the greatest impact on our community?

Simply to perform the orchestral repertoire.

What is your favorite type of orchestral music to perform?  

Music of the first half of the 20th century.

Who is your favorite composer or musician?

Shostakovich, Stravinsky, Berg

Do you have a Louisville Orchestra or event that is especially meaningful or memorable?

In 1980 I was one of several LO musicians invited to play an eight-week summer season with an orchestra in Mexico City. One week, Leon Spierer, concertmaster of the Berlin Philharmonic, was the featured soloist with that orchestra. (I considered the Berlin Philharmonic to serve as a reference for the recording of the orchestral literature.) As I left the concert hall after a day of rehearsals to catch a bus to my lodging, the driver of the orchestra car taking Mr. Spierer to his lodging stopped and offered me a ride. Mr. Spierer spoke excellent English and was very friendly. He asked me where I was from. I replied that I played in the Louisville Orchestra. He immediately exclaimed "I collect your recordings!". I felt elated!

What do you love most about being part of the Louisville community?  

Louisville is big enough to offer variety, yet not a huge city.

What’s something unique, surprising, fun, or interesting about you?  

I have five grandchildren.

What are some of your hobbies outside the LO?

Audio electronics.

How do you stay connected with the community outside of your performances?  

I perform with a non-professional orchestra.