Introduce yourself to us.
I joined the Civic Orchestra in 2015, where I performed as a regular member of the double bass section for two years. I then moved to Seattle to fulfill two 1-year contracts with the Seattle Symphony, after which I won my current position as Section Bass in the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra.
Tell us about one of the most memorable experiences during your years in the Civic Orchestra.
I distinctly remember serving as principal bass for Haydn’s “Farewell” Symphony toward the end of my time in Civic. Playing the exposed bass solo in the last movement was an extremely nerve-wracking, and ultimately fulfilling experience which I’ll never forget. The hall in Chicago is so storied and historic, I really felt like it was my responsibility to uphold a century-long legacy of great performers and exquisite music-making on that stage.
How did your experience in the Civic Orchestra influence your musical career?
Civic was instrumental in shaping my musical career. The mock auditions for CSO musicians, weekly access to CSO concerts, and high-level monthly Civic performances were the ideal stepping stone between student and professional life in the music industry.
What is your advice for Civic members who are beginning to take professional auditions?
Take advantage of all the resources Chicago has to offer. Play for a variety of different instrumentalists (and conductors!) in as many acoustic environments as possible, attend as many orchestral, opera, and chamber music concerts as you can, and keep your ears and mind open to all the new ideas you encounter!
What would you say to musicians who are considering an audition for the Civic Orchestra?
As long as you possess the personal motivation to stay focused without the weekly lessons and masterclasses that school offers, I cannot recommend Civic highly enough.
Share your thoughts on how to best prepare for a professional career in music.
Perform as much as possible, with as many different groups as possible. Set goals for yourself, and do everything in your power to achieve them. Above all that, practice scales and arpeggios :)
