Player Portrait

Harris Orem

English Horn / Oboe

First season with the Oregon Symphony:

1969-1970

Most influential teacher(s):

My high school music teacher, Bill Covert, was extremely influential in my life, serving as both a mentor and friend to his students. He constantly found playing opportunities for all interested students and was available when we had personal needs.

Earliest musical memory:

My first attempt at the oboe was abysmal. In my family was an old student model oboe out of which nary a squeak came when I tried it. My mother had more success. Hopefully, I’ve improved since.

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

I was offered a job in an orchestra in Florida and immediately dropped out of the Masters’ program in Chemistry at the University of Illinois.

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

Natural products chemist.

Favorite composer and/or period?

I swoon when I hear Brahms because of his lush melodies and harmonies, his sensitivity and humor.

What does this photograph say about your life?

We love being a family! Music is a big part of our family life, as are soccer and reading.

What do you enjoy most about performing?

I enjoy being part of a powerful and intricate machine producing great music.

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

It is important that we introduce new audiences around the state to an art form, perhaps relatively unfamiliar to them, which they otherwise might not encounter.

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

Besides enjoying relationships with talented colleagues, my position allows me to spend afternoons with my family and live in a beautiful city, where I can take Tri-Met to work and avoid rush hour traffic.

Player Portrait