Player Portrait

Todd Kuhns

Clarinet / E Flat/Bass Clarinet

First season with the Oregon Symphony:

1989-1990

Most influential teacher(s):

Catherine Palladiano was a great, inspiring teacher. Another teacher, Anthony Gigliotti, a former principal with the Philadelphia Orchestra, had many years of teaching and orchestra experience, which made him a very effective mentor.

Earliest musical memory:

Listening to a recording of Bill Haley and The Comets singing “See You Later, Alligator."

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

While a sophomore at Rex Putnam, I was in a strong music program and had a great time. The idea of being a professional musician seemed like an exciting and creative challenge.

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

Rich tycoon.

Favorite composer and/or period?

Mahler. His music touches me emotionally more than any other. But I also like the late Romantic and early 20th century music, especially Stravinsky.

What does this photograph say about your life?

A big part of my job is having three different instruments to practice. Sometimes it seems like a juggling act!

What do you enjoy most about performing?

When the orchestra sounds its best, the experience of being a voice within the music is very satisfying. You can’t play a Mahler symphony by yourself.

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

Keeping live performing arts, and culture in general, available to people. It’s something of substance and value in what sometimes seems to be a “fast food” society.

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

I take a lot of pleasure in being able to continue my career in a great city — my hometown.

Biography Player Portrait