Gayle Budd O’Grady

Cello

At this very moment …

we would find Gayle trying to keep track of her three kids and their complicated schedules. At 20, 17 and 15 they are very active and Gayle is often pressed into service for rides to various activities. “On my day off I hope I don’t have to do too much driving.”

On the CD player …

whatever her kids are listening to, which is generally what’s current. Gayle is more of a radio listener, with her dial fixed on OPB or KBPS, but when she has the option, she often chooses silence. “Active listening requires so much effort; for a musician, there has to be a space of quiet during the day.”

In the kitchen …

Gayle and her husband are changing their eating habits these days. “We’re on a diet kick, eating lots of cabbage soup, brown rice, yogurt, granola and tea instead of coffee—well, most of the time! We’re also exercising a lot, running around the track.” At this time of year, Gayle enjoys cooking seasonal things as well, including soups and pies. As with her kids’ schedules, Gayle finds it challenging to coordinate meals with so many folks coming and going at odd hours.

On the music stand …

you would find the music Gayle is working on with Tapestry for an upcoming concert featuring music of Dvorák, including his piano quartet and piano trio, as well as a piano trio by Turiña. In addition to her current musical projects, you’ll also find Bach’s suites for unaccompanied cello. “I always come back to Bach; everything begins and ends with him.”

And on the nightstand …

Gayle is reading Beverly Cleary’s autobiography, A Girl from Yamhill to her mother, whose own childhood mirrored Cleary’s own. She is also reading a series of essays by Ben Hur Lampman which observe the seasons and wildlife of Oregon.

Before you left …

Gayle would be sure to show you pictures of her large family. “We don’t have enough wall space to hang pictures, so I’d show you all the pictures I don’t have room to hang.” A gregarious host, Gayle would also want to find out all about you.