Musicians Behind the Scenes: Angela Anderson Smith

Where were you born? I was born in Champaign-Urbana, Illinois, which, incidentally, is also the birthplace of violinist Gil Shaham.
What piece of music could you play over and over again? Any of the symphonies of Jean Sibelius.
What is your most treasured possession? I would have to say my bassoon. It has been such a beloved and integral part of my life for so, so many years.
What’s your favorite food? Out of many, good slow-smoked barbecue.
Tell us about your instrument. I play on a Heckel bassoon made in Germany in 1931. Older Heckel instruments from this general time period are considered to be some of the very best ever made by this manufacturer. 
What’s in your instrument case? Extra bassoon bocals [curved, tapered tubes that connect reeds to the instrument], swabs, reeds, reed tools, current music being practiced. 
What piece of music never fails to move you? “Why Should I Cry for You?,” by Sting, from his album The Soul Cages.
What do you love most about performing? The feeling of joining together with all of my colleagues on stage, in the moment, creating something so beautiful and so grand.
When did you join the Orchestra? In 1997, under the baton of the great Wolfgang Sawallisch.
Do you play any other instruments? I very occasionally practice the flute, which was my instrument before the bassoon.
What are you reading right now? Books about bushcrafting, which is basically the art of wilderness survival with only a few basic tools and necessities. 
What do you like to do in your spare time? Take care of my pets, cook, keep my mind active learning new skills and hobbies.
What do you love most about Philadelphia? Lots of good places to eat, the feel of a vibrant city without being overwhelmingly huge, many things to see and do.
When was the first time you heard The Philadelphia Orchestra? My parents played Philadelphia Orchestra records frequently when I was growing up, so I first learned of our orchestra as a small child. 
What is your favorite memory with the Orchestra? My first tour with the Orchestra in 1997. We went to Europe, and it was just such a wonderful experience to be traveling and playing with this world-class orchestra. 
What advice would you give to aspiring young musicians? Practice mindfully, hone your skills of self-evaluation, and always treasure the joy of making music!

Photo by Jessica Griffin