1. Where were you born? Tell us a little about your youth and upbringing.
Upstate New York (Binghamton). Played a lot of sports and a lot of music. I am one of eight children, only one to pursue the arts- what does that makes me???
2. Earliest musical memories?
Parents records of Doc Severinson, Al Hirt, Bert Kaempfert, Herb Alpert.
3. Your education? Where did you attend college, primary teachers?
State University of Fredonia, NY/ University of Akron (OH). Teachers: Bill Dederer, Scott Johnston, Bernard Adelstein, Gilbert Johnson.
4. Why did you choose your instrument?
Older cousin played, attracted to my parent's recordings.
5. When did you know you wanted to be a professional musician?
By 9th grade. I had just enough success to make me practice more and get involved in more ensembles.
6. Who were/are your most important musical influences?
Great first music teacher, Don Maiolo. My High School Band Director, John Cooley.
7. Most inspiring composers?
Dvorak, Brahms, Stravinsky, Mahler, Bartok.
8. What would you be if not a musician?
Minor league baseball player.
9. Your favorite thing about playing in the ACO?
Interesting repertoire that's rarely done. Some brilliant standard chamber orchestra repertoire that you sometimes miss in a large symphony orchestras.
10. With what other ensembles do you perform/where do you teach?
Teach at FAU -Boca Raton; Broward College, Ft. Lauderdale. Play with the Palm Beach Symphony; pit orchestras for Broadway National Tours, Palm Beach Opera Orchestra, Naples Philharmonic Orchestra.
11. What is in your CD player right now?
Chet Baker (Jazz trumpet).
12. What do you like to do outside of work/hobby/pastime?
Cook, jogging, watch my two daughters grow into brilliant, beautiful young ladies.
