Player Portrait

Christine Perry

Percussion

First season with the Oregon Symphony:

1976-1977

Most influential teacher(s):

The teachers who helped me form the foundations of my playing were Paul Salvatore, timpanist with the Oregon Symphony, and George Gaber, my teacher at Indiana University. I owe each of them a great debt for their guidance and support. The teacher who’s influenced my orchestral playing the most since joining the orchestra is Alan Abel of the Philadelphia Orchestra. He liked to think of new ways to play the repertoire and, with his curiosity and impeccable musicianship, he brought forth all kinds of interesting colors.

Earliest musical memory:

My mother played records to help get us to sleep at night, especially “Nutcracker” and Strauss waltzes. She also insisted that all four kids take three years of piano lessons. I started at age 9. The following year, my band teacher suggested that I take up either violin or drums.

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

As a band student in high school. But it was as a student at Lewis & Clark, studying with Paul Salvatore (Oregon Symphony Principal Timpanist), that I really became serious about playing in the orchestra. I started as an English major, but after hearing the Oregon Symphony and learning timpani from Paul, I went on to study performance art in Indiana.

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

Dancer. I like the idea of expressing rhythm through the body. It’s really an extension of percussion.

Favorite composer and/or period?

19th century Romantics. But really, all great music is my “favorite.” It takes you on a magnificent voyage — like a good book.

What does this photograph say about your life?

I framed myself in frame drums because I’m very interested in exploring their use in all kinds of cultures. They’re portable instruments so can go anywhere people go but they’re never overbearing; can be played intricately or can just lay down the beat.

What do you enjoy most about performing?

Sharing the music with other people.

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

Education, not just for children but for all ages. The Symphony is the connection between people and their cultural past. Symphonic music is dynamic; it has grown and changed as composers brought in new instruments and sounds, and it’s still evolving today. This ongoing synthesis will effect what and how we play in the future.

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

Doing “instrument petting zoos” or any other opportunity to connect directly with the audience.

Musician Moment Player Portrait