I started playing violin in the Fall of 1963. Ellen Shenton (later to become Ellen Buxton) had been my Symphonette teacher, and started the orchestra program.
Musical talent, random chance, I don't know, but I soon became Principal Second Violin in our school orchestra, and maintained that seat until my graduation from high school in 1972.
Chamber Music, Community Orchestras, Broadway-style musicals, and even an Opera Company followed. I've played in secular and church settings, but now play mostly for my own pleasure and in my church orchestra.
Musical tastes? Classical, show tunes, bluegrass, gospel...Basically if I can hum it I can listen to it, and I'll take a shot at playing it!
Violin Heroes:
* Lawrence Dutton (currently violist for the Emerson String Quartet--I played with him in several groups in junior and senior high school)
* Mark Wood--Rock Violinist. Founding member of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
* Rachel Barton Pine--Incredible young violinist. Outstanding technique. Intelligent. (Too bad she's a cat fan.)