Penelope Sachs

Orchestra Member

Instrument

Viola

Year Joined

1993

Most memorable performance with the ESO

All the Christmas concerts. I love those concerts and always hope we get to play Sleigh Ride

Favorite ESO soloist

Charlie Pikler, Principal Viola of the CSO — violas rule!

Why I like playing with the ESO

I joined the ESO within a few months of emigrating to America. The ESO helped me become part of Evanston, and so, also, part of America. I have been fortunate to have the same stand partner, Jen McGeary, for the 20 years I have been playing. I think that the ESO has become part of my extended family out here.

Favorite composer or piece

Saint Saëns ‘Organ’ Symphony. And Sleigh Ride, by Anderson

When I’m not playing with the ESO, I’m…

I have been on the board of the ESO for a number of years. I am also currently the Board Chair of the Evanston Community Foundation. I love riding horses, cooking, traveling, and my garden.

Something most people don’t know about me

My husband, Toby, my daughter Kerry, and I all ride horses competitively. We have one mare currently, called Good Luck Charm.