On Saturday, Oct. 17, the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra will begin its 58th season, led once again by Laura Jackson. Since 2009, the masterful conductor has not only led the talented group of local musicians, but has also debuted a number of global pieces, branched into youth orchestras, and mentored women conductors around the world. For more information on the Reno Phil and the upcoming season, visit renophil.com.
What was the first concert you attended?
The Kinks when they came through upstate New York in the late 1980s. It was loud, crazy and super fun.
What was the first album you owned?
Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. I know, I know. I’m a nerd.
What bands are you listening to right now?
“Route 66” for orchestra, Michael Daugherty; The Killers, Hot Fuss; Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 and Odd Jobs.
What artist, genre or musical trend does everyone love, but you don’t get?
Most hip-hop leaves me in the dust, EXCEPT Kendrick Lamar. “Not Like Us” is an artistic masterpiece, in my opinion.
What musical act, current or defunct, would you most like to see perform live?
R.E.M.
What’s your favorite musical guilty pleasure?
Shania Twain.
What’s your favorite music venue?
Warren Edward Trepp Stage at Sand Harbor. Whenever I’m conducting the Reno Phil there, I’m in heaven.
What’s the one song lyric you can’t get out of your head?
“Now he’s falling asleep and she’s calling a cab, while he’s having a smoke and she’s taking a drag,” The Killers, “Mr. Brightside.”
What band or artist changed your life? How?
The composer Johannes Brahms. I was 12 years old, turning pages for the organist during a performance of Brahms’ Requiem mass while my dad was singing in the choir. I was transported to a different planet. I was so moved by the beauty of the music that my eyes filled with tears, and I could barely read the music! That day was the first time I wanted to conduct.
You have one question to ask one musician. What’s the question, and who are you asking?
Taylor Swift: “Do you ever worry the idea for the next song may not show up?”
What song would you like played at your funeral?
J.S. Bach’s Goldberg Variations. It’s beautiful, as well as nice and long. I plan to take the scenic tour to whatever afterworld I am headed for, just in case it’s not my first choice five-star.
Figurative gun to your head, what is your favorite album of all time?
Beethoven’s Symphonies 5 and 7 recorded by Carlos Kleiber and the Vienna Philharmonic. The video is even better.
What song should everyone listen to right now?
Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2. If you don’t have time for the whole thing, listen to the second movement. It will make your day better, I promise.