What year did you join the orchestra?
I first auditioned for the orchestra in 1999. I was so nervous, my loose sheets of music fell and scattered all over the floor. I had to lay down my bass to gather them, more like a comedy routine then an audition. The judges, alas, were not amused. I reauditioned in 2002 and was awarded a contract.

How long have you been playing music?
I started on the bass when I was 10. The public schools in Westerville, Ohio had a string program available to any interested student. Later, I started taking private lessons. After high school, I received a bachelor’s degree from the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY.

How did you pick your instrument?
I told my mother I wanted to play the biggest one.

Occupation?
I am retired after a 32-year career with FedEx Express. I always tried to play music on the side during those years.

When you’re not playing with the Reno Phil, what would we most likely see you doing in your free time?
You’d see me singing while practicing my guitar. Perhaps rehearsing with my musical partner, Cecilia Lee. Our duo is called Regency Strings and we play American Songbook standards.

What genre of music are you most excited to play?
I love classical, country, jazz, pop, and bluegrass. But nothing beats the excitement of stepping up to the plate and to play in the Reno Phil bass section.

What is your favorite piece of all time to play, and why?
I love Johannes Brahms, and especially his second symphony. The pinnacle of the classical period in my opinion.

If you could meet one composer/musician, who would it be and why?
I would like to meet Sir Paul McCartney. An amazing song writer and innovative bass player. The musical soul of the Beatles. (Apologies to John fans.)

What is your favorite vacation spot?
My wife Trudy and I just spent two delightful weeks in London and the Cottswolds in the U.K. During the leaner years in the US, Mendocino Coast is our go to destination.

What do you think the audience would find surprising about you?
I take several Pilates classes a week at Sports West Athletic Club in Reno. My wife introduced me to it, and I am hooked.

What about performing live music brings you joy?
I love when music touches those attending a live performance. To witness that, gives energy to a performer and reminds one of the privileges it is to be a musician.