Meet the ACO Musicians - Michael Launius

1.  Where were you born?  Tell us a little about your youth and upbringing?

Born in Arkadelphia, Arkansas.

2.  Earliest musical memories?

My Mom's records and 8-tracks of Elvis.

3.  Your education?  Where did you attend college, primary teachers?

BM - University of Oregon.  Teachers: Jeffrey Peyton & Charles Dowd.

MM - Florida State University.  Teacher: Gary Werdeshein.

4.  Why did you choose your instrument?

It was between drums and trumpet and my mom was afraid the trumpet would aggravate my asthma.

5.  When did you know you wanted to be a professional musician?

In 8th grade, after I placed a very well in a regional honor band.

6.  Who were/are your most important musical influences?

Bill Halbrook - HS Assistant Band Director.

Charles Dowd/Gary Werdeshein - college teachers.

Alex Jimenez - colleague from graduate school.

7.  Most inspiring composers?

Lou Harrison

Christopher Rouse

David Maslanka

Beethoven/Mahler/Strauss

8.  What would you be if not a musician?

Microbrewery/Brew Pub Owner/Brewer.

9.  Your favorite thing about playing in the ACO?

The opportunity to perform some of the greatest music ever written.

10.  With what other ensembles do you perform/where do you teach?

Palm Beach Opera, Palm Beach Symphony, Southwest Florida Symphony, Savannah Philarmonic.

11.  What is in your CD player right now?

Peter Sadlo - percussionist, Frank Zappa, All-Punk Band.

12.  What do you like to do outside of work/hobby/pastime(s)?

Home brewing, reading, avid follower of Houston Astros Baseball.