How did you get into music?
My father is an avid music lover, and as a young child we would listen to records of his favorite classical pieces. I think that is when I first got the music bug. I then began learning the piano, and my piano teacher during my high school years thought I might be interested in conducting. That was when I began to explore conducting opportunities, My first time on the podium was with an amateur orchestra, and I remember it being much harder than I thought it would be. How hard could it be to wave your arms, I thought! Nevertheless, the thrill of conducting an orchestra was undeniable, and I have been fortunate enough to have those opportunities ever since.
What do you find to be the most challenging part of being a conductor?The joy of conducting is bringing a great work of art to life. The great irony is that on the one hand you make no sound at all, but on the other hand you are responsible for all that happens on the stage. One of the great challenges is to establish a musical chemistry with the orchestra such that collectively you produce a performance of the highest emotional and communicative power. This begins with a great amount of private score study, an ability to rehearse effectively often with only a few rehearsals, and then giving the orchestra the impetus and inspiration the music needs in performance.What is one piece that you’ve always wanted to conduct? -And have you had that chance yet?There are so many pieces that are thrilling to conduct, some I have gotten the chance to and others that I haven’t. One of my career highlights was conducting Mahler’s 2nd Symphony. It is work that in Mahler’s words ‘encompasses the whole world’. It expresses the full range of emotions that we as human beings experience. The music also requires a very large orchestra, chorus and vocal soloists. The power and the tenderness in the work are compelling. It takes one on a emotional journey that stays with you long after the performance.What are you listening to in your car (ipod, etc) right now?When I am in the car on my own, I most often listen to sports radio. When my fiance is with me, we will sometimes listen to 80’s stations. I don’t usually listen to classical music unless it is pieces I am working on. Every now and then, however, I will go on a stretch of listening to classical pieces that I do not know to broaden my knowledge of the repertoire.What do you think about Kennett Square?From the minute I came to Kennett Square for my audition, I was taken by the beauty and quaintness of the region. That was almost 4 years ago. My family and I enjoy walking on State St, browsing the shops and enjoying a coffee or a bite to eat at the Market. In fact, we recently moved into the borough and are thrilled. It is an honor to be the Music Director of the Kennett Symphony and to work with these very talented professional musicians. If you haven’t enjoyed a concert of the Kennett Symphony, I invite you to come and enjoy one of our many concerts.
