How many years have you been a member of the Spokane Symphony?
I have been with the SSO for 14 years.
How old were you when you began learning bass?
I was 10 when I started playing the bass, but I had started trumpet the year before in school. I was offered free lessons with the local youth orchestra to start the bass and play in the beginners’ group.
How old were you when you decided to pursue a career in music?
I was 17, senior year of high school. Maybe later than most, but I was sitting in rehearsal with the Chicago Youth Symphony and thought I should do this for a living because I loved it so much.
What help did you receive when you were young to get you to this level of playing?
My family support was huge. From driving me to lessons and rehearsals, to buying a car big enough for everyone and a bass. And when I went away to college, my parents were very supportive of my career choices. Without all this, I might not have been able to do the exciting things I have been able to do with my music career
How many years past high school did you continue school for the training you needed to reach this level of performing?
I did 10 years of college, finishing most of my work for a Doctorate in Music at Indiana University before I realized that I really loved playing in an orchestra and so I focused on winning an audition!
Young bassist Patrick McNally