Gloria Boyell

Orchestra Member

Instrument

Violin II

Year Joined

1974

Most memorable performance with the ESO

My very first ESO performance I found myself at the back of a huge second violin section. It was so far back I could not see the audience, and I had only a dim view of the conductor. That was memorable!

Favorite ESO soloist

Chicago-born mezzo-soprano Isola Jones, who has gone on to sing 16 seasons at the Metropolitan Opera in New York along with many other companies worldwide.

Why I like playing with the ESO

There is nothing more fun than making music with others. I am grateful to be able to enrich my musical life learning orchestral literature with this great group.

Favorite composer or piece

Mozart

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

Very involved with the ESO offshoot, the Savoyaires, a Gilbert and Sullivan performing group. I also swim in Lake Michigan daily in the summer and cross-country ski in the winter.

Something most people don’t know about me

For years in the ESO I’ve assumed the disguise of a second violinist, though my life’s work has been as a pianist — playing chamber music, accompanying and teaching.