Former San Diego Symphony Principal Trumpet
How long were you in the San Diego Symphony?
3 years, starting in 2014. CEO Martha Gilmer and I arrived at just about the same time.
Where are you now? And how long have you been there?
I play Principal Trumpet in the Pittsburgh Symphony. I moved here from San Diego on Halloween Day, 2017.
Do you remember your last concert with SDSO?
Yes, it was Rafael Payare’s first concert as a Guest Conductor with the SDSO. It was awesome to be a part of those initial rehearsals and concerts. There was a great connection forged between Maestro Payare and the musicians. The very next week, I flew to Pittsburgh for my first official week as Principal Trumpet with the PSO, playing Mahler’s Symphony No. 1, conducted by (guess who!) Rafael Payare!
Can you tell us about your audition journey?
Sure. I have had a bit of a journeyman’s career, having played various positions (1st, 2nd, and 3rd Trumpet) in 7 different professional orchestras. For almost a decade, I took several auditions every year, even while holding full-time positions in orchestras. Most of the auditions I took didn’t work out, but I learned from every single one of them. Most importantly, the process of preparation itself refined my playing and trained me to become my own best teacher.
Favorite musical moments from your time with SDSO?
I was fortunate to be able to perform three of my favorite Mahler Symphonies – Nos. 3, 6, and 7 – with the SDSO, all under Music Director Jahja Ling. I also relished the opportunity to play Copland’s Quiet City with Principal English Horn Andrea Overturf. Mostly, however, it’s the incredible support I received from my colleagues in the trumpet and brass section. While I was not new to professional orchestra life, SDSO was my first principal position, so I had some learning to do. John Wilds and Ray Nowak supported and encouraged me, remaining flexible as our section developed into a well-oiled machine. I cherish the memories of when we completely gelled and sounded as one.
Can you describe how you’ve grown as a trumpet player and artist since leaving college?
Wow! How have I not? I am constantly seeking sources of inspiration, and having gotten to work closely with so many incredible musicians, I just try to be a sponge! I try to steal whatever I’m attracted to in anyone else’s playing, no matter what instrument or style. I’m learning daily how to let go more and allow the music to speak through me without getting in the way.
Favorite hang out spots when you were in San Diego?
The playground with my daughters! I would often meet up with Superdad Logan Chopyk and his girls. My family lived in Normal Heights, so we also loved to just hang out in our funky neighborhood. Dark Horse Coffee was my favorite local coffee joint, but when I wanted to splurge, Bird Rock Coffee was the best I ever had.
What do you miss most about San Diego?
Summers at Bayview Park. I loved warming up outside each morning with my bell pointed across the bay toward Coronado, feeling the breeze and watching the boats go by.
What would be your first restaurant/food joint if you came to visit?
Puesto at The Headquarters. It was my family’s favorite place to go for a night out, and our favorite place to take visitors. We would get on the waitlist and walk along the Embarcadero. I love Puesto’s filet mignon tacos, and their table salsa is insane.
If you had a long weekend to spend in San Diego, where would you visit?
I’d visit the Zoo and the Safari park, go swimming in the ocean, nosh on a surf and turf burrito, and hit up Cantina Mayahuel Tequila Bar. I’d try to eat brunch with friends as many times a day as possible. I’d also stroll through memory lane in the downtown district near Copley Symphony Hall. Come to think of it, I could really go for a corned beef taco and a pint at Stout Public House.
Is there something that San Diego has that you wish Pittsburgh had?
The Sun