Player Portrait

Carla Wilson

Flute/Piccolo

First season with the Oregon Symphony:

1973-1974

Most influential teacher(s):

John May. A great musician and teacher, he was principal flutist with the Oregon Symphony when I studied with him. Playing under him was a great learning and mentoring experience. He encouraged and guided me into a career with the Oregon Symphony, and I am grateful to him for that.

Earliest musical memory:

The excitement of owning my first flute (which I got on the day of the Columbus Day storm) and giving my first performance for my family when I was 11 years old.

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

I was in seventh grade. I loved performing and being surrounded by the sounds of all the other instruments.

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

Wife and mother. I have three wonderful children and a husband who is very supportive and understanding of the challenges of being a professional musician. Little did he know ... !

Favorite composer and/or period?

J.S. Bach because of the elegant beauty of sound and construction of his works.

What does this photograph say about your life?

My daughter began studying flute two years ago. It is wonderful to see her enthusiasm for the instrument, to play duets with her and to share a common interest.

What do you enjoy most about performing?

Sharing the music I love with others and being continually challenged to perform my best.

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

To be an advocate for arts in the community — educating and helping children learn about and develop a love for the music of the symphony orchestra.

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

The exhilaration of completing a performance and knowing something magical happened musically for the musicians and the audience.

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