Tell us about one of the most memorable experiences during your years in the Civic Orchestra.
Playing Principal Horn on Shostakovich’s Fifth Symphony with Daniel Barenboim stands out in my memory for two reasons. First of all, it was my last concert with Civic. It was also the last concert before I turned my attention to low horn for the rest of my career. I couldn’t have known this at the time, but I won my first job a few weeks later, became a low horn specialist, and never looked back. Interestingly, that symphony is at least as well known (to horn players) for its low tutti passage as it is for its high first horn solo.
How did your experience in the Civic Orchestra influence your musical career?
Because we learned repertoire so thoroughly and rehearsed in such detail, I felt extremely prepared for full-time orchestral work. My professional schedule is more compact than the schedule we had in Civic, but I can apply the same techniques to my individual preparation so that I will always be ready for what is next.
What is your advice for Civic members who are beginning to take professional auditions?
Take advantage of the community you have in Civic. Play your audition material for your peers and your coaches. Attend the CSO as often as you can; this is one of the best perks of your Civic membership. I liked to sit behind the orchestra to be as close as possible to being on stage. This is the first place I truly understood how much sound professional horn sections need to produce. Most importantly, don’t give up! Keep working hard, and turn the auditions you don’t win into learning experiences.
What would you say to musicians who are considering an audition for the Civic Orchestra?
Go for it! Civic is a great place to hone your skills, devour repertoire, and connect with peers who may become your future colleagues.
