A Wealth of Culture in the Northwest

Dear Friends,

Often my conducting schedule means I’m on the road a lot, but this fall I have really enjoyed spending time at home in Portland without having to travel. Many of you probably know I started out playing violin many years ago. Well, even though I’m now a conductor, I get together and play chamber music several times a year with The Rusty Quartet, an informal gathering of friends and colleagues. In fact, Chamber Music Northwest Executive Director Linda Magee is one of the founding members. And yes, the name refers to the sound quality! But it's a very satisfying hobby.

I also saw Paul Taylor’s dance company, Whitebird, here at the Schnitz. All I can say is—wow. This year marks the group’s 10th anniversary, and they celebrated it in style. It’s no surprise that Paul is considered by many as the world’s greatest living choreographer. The limits to which the dancers push their bodies…it really is unbelievable unless you’re looking at it with your own eyes.

Finally, I had the chance to lead a rehearsal with the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra and the Portland Youth Philharmonic. I’m always excited to work with these talented young people. After all, they are our future Symphony musicians!

See you soon,

Carlos