Player Portrait

Chien Tan

Principal Second Violin

First season with the Oregon Symphony:

1999-2000

Most influential teacher(s):

Patricia Wyman, public music teacher, who introduced me to the violin, thankfully. Previously I tried recorder and ukulele and neither of them took. Also, Elizabeth Baker of the Los Angeles Philharmonic prepared me for the orchestral world. David Cerone and David Updegraff at the Cleveland Institute (CIM) taught me perseverance.

Earliest musical memory:

Watching burly tattooed men haul the ugliest, most pitiful upright piano you ever laid your eyes on into our house. I was five years old. Think chipped, yellowed ivories and a piano that was "maintenance-free" (never tuned) the nine years we had it! My parents' intentions were good; they valued and invested in music education despite our economic situation at the time. As a result, my siblings (two brothers and one sister) and I played the piano to some degree.

"I first knew I would make music my career when ... "

I heard the Cleveland Orchestra live at Severance Hall. The first work on that program was "Don Juan" by Richard Strauss. Incredible! That was exactly the moment I knew I wanted to be in a professional orchestra. I became a volunteer usher at the hall and faithfully attended the concerts every week for a year or so.

"Other than performing music, I've always thought it might be fun to be a ... "

Philosopher or an Olympic gymnast.

Favorite composer and/or period?

Whatever I'm currently performing.

What does this photograph say about your life?

Do what you love and have fun. Whether it is listening to music, snorkeling, teaching, or simply watching the sunset, if it brings you fulfillment and joy, it will nurture the soul.

What do you enjoy most about performing?

Making a composer's work come alive with true commitment and sincerity. As a musician, performing is both a great honor and a huge responsibility.

Other than playing great music, what do you see as the Symphony's most important role?

To inspire and challenge the public to make music education and the arts a high priority.

What is your favorite part of being a member of the Oregon Symphony?

How many major orchestras are located in a beautiful, livable city that's close to the scenic coast, mountains and desert?

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