Valerie Muzzolini Gordon
Principal
Birthday: Sept. 20, 1976
Birthplace: Nice, France
Education: Nice National Conservatory, The Curtis Institute of Music, Yale University
Joined SSO: 2000
Soloed with SSO: January 2001 and May 2002
What is your earliest musical memory? I was 5 years old and Mstislav Rostropovich was playing with my mother's orchestra in Ajaccio, Corsica
When did you know you wanted to be a professional musician? after my first orchestra concert at the Curtis Institute of Music
Who were your most important musical influences? my teachers Marilyn Costello, Judy Loman and Nancy Allen; my mother
What type of instrument do you play? a Lyon & Healy Harp, which belonged to my teacher, Marilyn Costello
If you could play another instrument, what would it be? cello
What are your duties as Principal? always being prepared and knowing how to lead a section (when I have one); knowing how to play with others
What personal traits are required of a Principal? knowing how to interact with others respectfully; being able to adapt quickly to new situations; knowing how to lead others; being a good musician
What is your favorite aspect about being a musician? being able to do what I love for a living
What is the most difficult part of your job? the schedule
How often and long do you practice? at least three hours everyday
What is your most memorable moment with the SSO? probably my very first concert in 2000
Which composers most inspire you? Mahler, Debussy and Ravel
What are your favorite recordings? Dvořák's Cello Concerto with Yo-Yo Ma and Lorin Maazel conducting the Berlin Philharmonic
Do you perform with other groups or in festivals? the Seattle Chamber Players, Seattle Chamber Music Society and Music of Remembrance
What do you like to do outside of the Orchestra? travel and cook
