Why did you choose the timpani?

When I first got into classical music, almost 60 years ago, I was obsessed with Beethoven’s symphonies. Beethoven taught me the beauty and importance of the timpani. Six years later, when I joined my college orchestra, I had no hesitation in choosing the timpani as my instrument. But sometimes, when I’m asked why I chose timpani, I keep it simple and say, “because it’s the easiest instrument to play”.

Tell us a little known fact about you

Three generations of my family have played in the Master Sinfonia. My mom was principal cellist when the orchestra started under John Mortarotti, I have played in the orchestra for about 30 years and my son has played extra trumpet in concerts in the last few years.

What do you do when you aren’t playing music?

Music is my favorite hobby and I spend a lot of time rehearsing and practicing but I also love listening to opera and going to the movies. Pedro Almodóvar’s movies were the reason I learned Spanish and I’ve seen them all many times.