Susan Stokdyk
Associate Librarian, National Symphony Orchestra
Years in Civic: 2008-2010
Introduce yourself to us.
I was both a bassoon fellow and a library fellow in Civic from 2008-2010, and finished my library fellowship in the 2010-11 season. It was a unique experience to be the librarian while also playing in the orchestra. I was sure I had made a huge mistake after the first rehearsal, but I grew to love holding both positions! After my time in Civic, I stayed in Chicago for 5 years; my main job was as the orchestra librarian for Northwestern University, but I also held library positions with the Chicago Philharmonic and Camerata Chicago, and freelanced on bassoon on occasion. I am currently the Associate Librarian of the National Symphony Orchestra in Washington, D.C.
Tell us about one of the most memorable experiences during your years in the Civic Orchestra.
My favorite concert that I remember was Mahler 9 with Maestro Salonen. It was the first big (huge!) piece that I played principal bassoon on. After some intense bassoon sectionals, and countless hours correcting errata and bowing the Civic set, I felt like I knew an incredible amount about the piece. I loved seeing and hearing it come to life in Orchestra Hall.
How did your experience in the Civic Orchestra influence your musical career?
Before I joined Civic and during my time in the orchestra, I was unsure if I wanted to be an orchestra librarian or a bassoonist. I had made the decision to pursue both as hard as I could until a path became clear, and Civic allowed me to do that. I became a better bassoonist being around great colleagues and CSO mentors (thanks, Bill Buchman!). While in charge of the Civic library, I learned an incredible amount by asking the CSO librarians about a billion questions (thanks Peter, Carole, and Mark!). Overall, a large part of the reason that I am the musician I am is because of my years in Civic. I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything.
Do you stay in contact with any of your Civic colleagues and, if so, who and in what capacity?
I am super close to some of my Civic colleagues. Former assistant conductor Michael Lewanski was in my wedding party, and Bill Buchman was our officiant! I see some colleagues around the Kennedy Center on a regular basis (shout out to Doug Rosenthal of the trombone section of the Washington National Opera), and follow many others via social media. I even hear from Cliff Colnot on occasion!
What is your advice for Civic members who are beginning to take professional auditions?
I’ve had the most success at both library and bassoon auditions where I felt like myself. When I’ve been prepared and comfortable enough to play how I want to play, or answer that tough interview question exactly right, good things have happened. Be yourself!
What would you say to musicians who are considering an audition for the Civic Orchestra?
My years in Civic were a definitive part of my development as a musician, and I absolutely loved my time in the orchestra. If you have an opportunity to audition, go for it!
