Interview with Sam:

How long have you been playing your instrument? 

Since I was not quite 4 years old…as long as I can remember!

What role does your instrument have in a symphonic piece? 
Violins often play the melody in a symphonic piece, as well as fast brilliant passages and notes in the highest register. When there is a violin solo in the music, I perform that as concertmaster.

What is your earliest memory of a symphony concert you attended?

Hearing Itzhak Perlman perform the Tchaikovsky concerto at the Hollywood Bowl when I was seven years old.  I met him after the concert, and he commented on my robot-watch!

What is it about music that makes us feel alive?  

Hearing people come together to create worlds of sounds and emotions that go beyond what can be expressed by words. 

What does the Riverside Philharmonic mean to you?

Riverside Philharmonic was the first professional orchestra I joined as concertmaster.  My work there led to me becoming concertmaster of Opera Santa Barbara, Desert Symphony, and Redlands Symphony, so it all started with Riverside!

I feel very lucky to play under Tomasz. He is an elite conductor, violinist, and composer, and a supportive, generous colleague. He has provided me with many of the most thrilling performances of my career, including our recent performance of the Berg Concerto.  

What do you love to do when you are not playing the violin?

My wife Jen and our son Elijah love watching Lego Masters and Kids Baking Championship together. Teaching my students at the Colburn School and the University of Redlands is very rewarding to me. I also enjoy jogging on the trail near our house or using my rowing machine.  Lately I’ve been obsessed with Fantasy Football. 

You favorite place(s) to eat in Riverside

Simple Simon’s Bakery and Back to the Grind