First Violin
When did you decide that you wanted to make concert music your career?
When I saw two women perform—ASO bass player Jane Little, and violinist Teresa Harth (performing the Bach Double Concerto with her husband). I realized that both played as well as, or better than, all the men I had seen or heard. It was then that I realized that a musical career was within my grasp, or that at the very least, I should “go for it.” I have never turned down an opportunity to play or advance my repertoire.
What changes have you seen during your tenure with the ASO?
I have played in the ASO for 39 years on the violin and 25 years on the keyboard (piano, celeste, organ and harpsichord). I used to joke that I played five instruments for the ASO for the price of one! Some years ago, I had a life-threatening medical emergency, but Piedmont Hospital saved my life. Since then, I haven’t taken anything for granted. I am thankful to God for preserving my life.
I am also thankful to Robert Shaw, Louis Lane, Yoel Levi, Robert Spano and Donald Runnicles for teaching the Atlanta Symphony the comprehensive repertoire that we play. We have recorded more contemporary 20th-century music than any other orchestra in America. All of our conductors have challenged us, never allowing us to sit on our laurels. They have always broadened our horizons from A to Z.
What piece would you most like to see included on a future ASO program?
Quite a lot of repertoire, I would say. I particularly like the Mahler Symphony No. 6 we played this past April with Donald Runnicles. It showcases what our Orchestra is capable of. The Atlanta Symphony has accomplished in 60-plus years what took most American orchestras 150. “Bravo!” to all of my colleagues and staff. We are the Susan Boyles in America!
I understand that you have a passion for dark chocolate! Would you be willing to share your secrets of where we can find the best in Atlanta?
I am into more healthy snacks now. At Christmas time I found a popcorn company in Ohio and of course an orange and grapefruit company in Florida. Everyone knows the best chocolates come from Europe. I have not found a comparable company in Atlanta, although Godiva and chocolate truffles come close. Then there are purple chocolates that violist Marian Kent gets from Hershey’s Kisses. And violinist Martha Reaves Head always gives us [Hershey’s] Kisses for participating in Education Outreach. I guess I’m still a chocoholic!
