One of the reasons, I believe, that I was interested in the cello from a very young age is the fact that the cello is an ensemble instrument; we play with others. Later, when I wanted to be a professional musician it was because I loved the music so much; it uplifted my spirit, it inspired my imagination, and it was solace to the heart. I have always thought of this first. The fact that I have enjoyed being one of the select, few solo cellists in the last 40 years is certainly a gift. But, that’s a byproduct and not a goal, whether I became “famous” died out in my mind at about age 11.
So when the opportunity comes around to take part in a section, I’m always happy to take advantage. It doesn’t happen as often and under the right circumstances as much as I would like but one recent occasion came around to participate in the LA Opera’s production of the Ring Cycle. I happened to be free and this would offer the chance to play alongside my wife and so many other wonderful colleagues.
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