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Name, instrument: Ian Hallas, bass
First season: 2023–24
Hometown: Northbrook, Illinois
Education: Rice University and University of Southern California
How did you choose your instrument?
I chose it because I was small, and it was big. My mother had to carry it for me.
Was there a specific moment or experience that led you to pursue the path a professional musician?
While I have been playing the bass for a long time, I didn’t always practice. However, the first time I played in a chamber group, I was fortunate enough to perform Dvořák’s String Quintet No. 2. That ignited a fire in me that was instrumental in my progress and passion.
What performances are you most looking forward to this season, and why?
I am very much looking forward to Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 11 with Maestro Hrůša (March 20-22). I have always found it to be one of the most powerful works in the literature, and it always seems to have relevancy to current events. It is a very demanding part — everything from the technical demands to the endurance aspect.
What is one of your favorite holiday traditions, musical or otherwise?
My wife and I are not a fan of the traditional Thanksgiving feast, so we try to do something different every year. This year will likely be a homemade carbonara sauce.
What advice would you give to someone interested in learning about classical music?
Come to as many concerts as you can! There is no substitute for live performance. So much can be gleaned by seeing people play in person.
Offstage, I like to:
Spend time with my wife, daughter and two cats. If we can somehow get all five of us in the same place, there is sure to be much mischief!
Currently I’m reading/watching/listening to:
The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein and Nickelodeon’s “Avatar: The Last Airbender.”
What is your favorite music to perform, and why?
I am a huge fan of Samuel Barber and always enjoy it when his works are programmed. I find his writing to be beautifully varied, but immediately recognizable at the same time.
What is your most memorable CSO performance or experience?
Missa solemnis with Maestro Muti [in June 2023] comes to mind. I enjoy the precision and command of his interpretations of Beethoven, so to do this massive work with him was truly memorable.
