What is the single biggest suggestion you would give to someone wanting to get into this career?

“Find ways to meet and talk with current Personnel Managers in your area. If you’re in a professional orchestra at any level, talk to your Personnel Manager and let him/her/them know you’re interested in the field.”

What’s the #1 mistake people make when trying to get into this career?

“I think the worst mistake you can make is to believe you are above the CBA, or the sublists, or whatever forms of governance are in place.Abusing the position is the best way to fail to move forward.”

What is the question people should ask about this career but rarely do?

“Do you enjoy the job? “Talk about a leading question, eh? Yes, I enjoy it very much. I was a performer for twenty years and I know how much of a difference a careful Personnel Manager can make to orchestra players. I feel like this job calls on all my life experiences and musical experience and I enjoy its challenges.”

What is one thing I should have asked which I didn’t?

“Why did you pursue this line of work? “I started doing it with the vague idea of making my old orchestra ‘better.’ Over the years that concept matured a lot. Now I see it as a way to help musicians play their best so that the art form I believe in can prosper and reach audiences with the greatest possible impact.”