Mark Westbrook

Orchestra Member

Instrument

Cello

Year Joined

1989

Most memorable performance with the ESO

The 50th anniversary concert in which we played the Beethoven 1st & 9th symphonies.

Favorite ESO soloist

Gary Stucka, who played the Dvořák Cello concerto; the Brahms Double with David Taylor; and the Beethoven Triple, also with David Taylor and Andrea Swan. A real treat to have these CSO artists work with us!

Why I like playing with the ESO

The ESO is the most important outlet for my love of classical music, my chance to actually play the music I so enjoy. It’s a true privilege. I also very much enjoy and value the camaraderie with my fellow musicians.

Favorite composer or piece

I have lots of favorites although I’d have to give top billing to the Beethoven and Brahms symphonies.

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

I work as a software quality assurance specialist. When not working or playing cello, my wife Julie and I enjoy movies, traveling, working on the garden and visiting our siblings, nieces and nephews in their various far-flung locales.

Something most people don’t know about me

I started playing cello when I was 9 and my mom had to harangue me to practice until I was well into high school. Now I’m co-principal. Funny how things turn out.