Gerald Torres - Double Bass

 

Your name: Gerald Torres

 

Your instrument/position in the orchestra: Section Bass

 

How old were you when you started playing your instrument? I started playing when I was 11 years old.

 

Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio

 

When did you join the orchestra: I joined the orchestra in 2015.        

 

Education: I received my Bachelor’s Degree from Oberlin Conservatory of Music and a Professional Studies Certificate from the Cleveland Institute of Music.  I also hold an Advanced Musical Studies Certificate from Carnegie Mellon University.

 

What made you choose your instrument? I missed all the auditions for the “cool” instruments at my school.  My last chance to join the school music program was to stay after school and get fitted to play the double bass.  My first choice was the trumpet followed by the saxophone.  I think I lucked out!

 

In a few words or sentences, how would you describe yourself?  I would say I am a pretty easy going person that gets along with everyone. 

 

Pet peeve: “Don’t you wish you played the piccolo?”

 

Most memorable moment in the orchestra:  Watching the amazing performers of Cirque de Noel.

 

Inspirations:  My biggest inspirations have been my teachers.  Mainly, Max Dimoff (principal of the Cleveland Orchestra).  I have learned so much from him and he has really showed me what it’s like to be great orchestral player. 

 

Favorite Movie and/or TV Show: I like Top Gear BBC, Parks and Recreation, and Game of Thrones.

 

Favorite foods: I love Puerto Rican dishes including sancocho (a vegetable stew) and fried plantains.

 

Hobbies: I really enjoy cooking and going to dinner with friends

 

Bad habit: Taking on too much at once

 

Most influential teachers: Max Dimoff (Principal Bass of the Cleveland Orchestra), Tom Sperl (Section Bass- Cleveland Orchestra), and Micah Howard (Section Bass- Pittsburgh Symphony)

 

Last book you read/what are you reading now?  I enjoyed reading A Long Way Gone:  Memoirs of a Boy Solider by Ishmael Beah.  I am starting Beah’s new book Radiance of Tomorrow.

 

Favorite pieces of music: I always have trouble answering this question because there are so many fantastic pieces of music.  Some of my favorites are playing the Brahms Symphonies, Beethoven 3, and Tchaikovsky 4.

 

Dream vacation/trip: Somewhere remote with few people and very scenic views.

 

What is your favorite thing about living in Grand Rapids? So far I am really enjoying the people.  Both collogues and new friends have been so welcoming and have made this transition easy.  

 

Last words/parting thoughts: I am really enjoying being a part of the Grand Rapids Symphony.  It’s a dream come true to make music professionally and hope you will continue to come support us!