1. How did you first discover the Plymouth Philharmonic, and when did you start attending concerts?
When I first moved to Plymouth about 20 years ago, I learned about the Phil and its concerts. At the time, I traveled frequently for work, so I wasn’t able to attend regularly. Over the past five to ten years, though, I’ve become a regular concertgoer, a subscriber, and much more involved with the Phil.
2. What keeps you coming back to Phil performances? What do you enjoy most about the concert experience?
I love live music — especially orchestral music. Plymouth is incredibly lucky to have its own professional orchestra. For a town of this size, that’s unusual. You expect a philharmonic in a big city, but not often in a smaller community. The Phil is one of the most special things about Plymouth. The sense of community around it, and having the same conductor for more than 32 years — that kind of continuity is truly special.
3. How did you become the guest whipper for Hometown Holiday, and how did you feel knowing you’d be on stage performing with the orchestra?
A few years ago, I attended a Hometown Holiday concert that featured a guest whipper, and I remember thinking, That looks like fun! When I later attended the silent auction at Shadows & Serenades, I knew the opportunity was coming up — I just wasn’t sure I had the courage to bid. I think a glass of wine helped, and I found the bravery to go for it. To my surprise, I won!
4. What did you feel when you won the bid and realized it was time to rehearse with Principal Percussionist Paul Gross?
The day before rehearsal, I listened to Sleigh Ride several times, not really knowing what my part would involve. I assumed I’d only play once at the end — and then realized I needed to play seven times! I was definitely nervous and knew I had to pay close attention.
When I arrived at rehearsal, though, I immediately felt calm. Paul was so kind and gave clear, thoughtful guidance. Afterward, I was still nervous because it was more involved than I expected, with following cues and some syncopated rhythms. I downloaded the track and practiced over and over again — so much that one morning my husband walked into the kitchen and said, “Please stop! [I can’t get Sleigh Bells out of my head!] ” After that, I [tried to] limit my practice to the car.
5. What was it like performing on stage with the orchestra during Sleigh Ride?
It was such a cool experience. I played in a band in high school, but performing with a professional orchestra is completely different — especially seeing it from that perspective. There are so many moving parts, even within the percussion section alone. You hear the music differently, too. I remember clearly hearing the French horn [beside] me and absolutely loving it.
6. What would you say to someone considering bidding on the next guest whipper opportunity?
I would absolutely say: go for it! The entire process is so much fun — from placing the first bid, to rehearsing with Paul, to watching a rehearsal and seeing how Steven Karidoyanes conducts the orchestra. Getting a behind-the-scenes look and hearing the conversations that happen is incredible.
This experience brought me closer to the Phil. I met musicians and office staff and felt even more connected to the organization. And if the Phil ever auctions off the chance to conduct Sleigh Ride at a future Hometown Holiday… that’s what I’m bidding on next!
