Matthew Karr joined the Louisville Orchestra April of 1979 at age 22. He graduated from the Oberlin Conservatory in May of 1978. Karr spent those months in between as co-principal bassoon of The Chicago Civic Orchestra.

Karr was a festival participant at Tanglewood, Marlboro, and Chautauqua, and taught at Interlochen Michigan, and Music Academy of the West, Santa Barbara. Karr also taught at The University of Louisville for 44 years. He was a founding member of The Kentucky Center Chamber Players, and performed with that group during its entire 30 year tenure. Karr also spent a season as co-principal bassoonist of the Houston Symphony. He is married to Principal flutist Kathleen Karr.

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

Sitting squarely in the middle of that glorious sound that we all create together!

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

As we have been doing, performing in every neighborhood in our city and every county in the state.

What is your favorite type of orchestral music to perform, and why?  

Really any compositions that are well crafted, and allow us all to sing!

Who is your favorite composer or musician?

Mozart, Stravinsky, and any of the accomplished artists, soloists who are at the top of their game, and display humility!

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

Yes! Our week long Mozart Gran Partita tour of Kentucky with 13 winds under the leadership of Lawrence Leighton Smith.

What are some things that inspire you as a musician?

Being able to perform as a servant of the brilliant composers.

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

That we are a small city that really has everything you could ever need. It has bee a great place to raise our two children, and now share with our four grandchildren.

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

I owned a furniture building business for 15 years. I am an avid cyclist, and have summited 10 of the 14 mountains in the Sierra Nevada range in California.

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

I volunteer for as many organizations as I find time for.

Favorite orchestral work?

Bach b minor Mass

What's on your playlist (what song are you currently into)?

I only listen to NPR