How long have you been playing music?
Since I was 6 years old.

How did you pick your instrument?
My older brother started lessons and I wanted to be like him.

Occupation?
Section Violinist with the Reno Philharmonic and the Vermont Symphony Orchestra, Assistant Principal Second Violin with Opera San José, private violin teacher in Truckee, CA

When you’re not playing with the Reno Phil, what would we most likely see you doing in your free time?
Working on our 10 acres of land in Alta, CA with my husband, practicing, hiking, skiing, baking

What is your favorite piece of all time to play, and why?
Schubert Cello Quintet, because there are so many exquisite moments, and I love to collaborate with friends on it

If you could meet one composer/musician, who would it be and why? Maybe Haydn? He was deeply admired by his students Mozart and Beethoven and inspired them all to compose so many beloved string quartets, and it seems like he would have been a humorous and affable person with lots to talk about

What genre of music are you most excited to play?
Chamber music

What is your favorite vacation spot?
The East Cape of Baja

What do you think the audience would find surprising about you?
I dream of combining my music career with homesteading

What about performing live music brings you joy?
I love the feeling of connecting to and emotionally moving the audience through sound, with beauty, pain, energy, and excitement

Learn more about Ellen.