3 minute read
Retiring Musicians
A Fond Farewell to Four Marvelous Musicians
This weekend the Charlotte Symphony will honor four talented and dedicated musicians who are retiring after a combined 175 years of service.
Janis Nilsen, cello
Joined the CSO: 1980
Favorite Memory: The CSO’s European Tour in 1986. Our final concert took place outdoors in the Market Square in the Old City. We were joined on stage by members of the Warsaw Opera Orchestra. What a sound! People crowded into every inch of the Square while others leaned out the windows of the apartment buildings that surrounded us to hear Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony.
In her own words: “Art is not a commodity. It is a fragile gift. Steep your children in it and revel in it yourself.”
Elizabeth Pistolesi, violin
Joined the CSO: 1975
Favorite Memory: One of the most enjoyable experiences is to have had such a great vantage point from which to see and hear the soloists play their encores, which are often a highlight of the concert. In particular, I will never forget Angela Hewitt playing Bach and Leon Fleischer playing Debussy. I've been very fortunate to perform through the CSO's Healing Hands program throughout the community with my fellow Laurel Trio members (Amy Whitehead, flute and Deborah Mishoe, cello). It's been most gratifying to experience the effect of the music on the audience in such an intimate setting.
In her own words: “We can’t survive without our audience. Keep on coming, and be willing to listen to unfamiliar music.”
Judith Ledbetter, violin
Joined the CSO: 1979
Favorite Memory: Our European Tour performance of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony in the Old Town Square in Warsaw was an experience I will never forget. Also, I especially enjoyed performing Elgar’s Enigma Variations, Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring, and Puccini operas with Opera Carolina.
In her own words: “I would like to thank my talented, experienced, highly trained, and amazing colleagues for so many years of musical memories. In addition, I would like to express appreciation to the audience for your past and continued support of the CSO and for inspiring me to always try to play my best.”
Lori Tiberio, bassoon
Joined the CSO: 1977
Favorite Memory: The Music Director when I was hired, Leo Driehuys, took all of the musicians out to a restaurant in Dilworth called The Lamp Lighter in honor of his 50th birthday — we all ate and drank and had a fabulous time celebrating. I’m also grateful to Driehuys and his wife, Henny, who made it possible for me to purchase “Helga,” the bassoon I’ve performed on throughout my entire career.
In her own words: “I want to thank the audience for their continued support of live music in Charlotte and for making my job so enjoyable.”
