“My dream duet would be to play with or for my father, who was my first teacher, biggest supporter, and harshest critic. He passed away 30 years ago.”

Who or what inspires you the most?

“Nature, all of life. I believe everything, living and non-living, is interconnected. Music is a part of that flow. When I play the cello, I feel connected to something greater than myself and that is what inspires me.

My heroes are those people who struggle through life yet manage to contribute something valuable to the well being of others.”

What was your first musical instrument?

“My first instrument was the piano, and my first teacher was my father.”

When and where was your first concert?

“My debut on cello was in my high school auditorium in 1960. I was a chubby, nerdy teenager who endured a lot of flak.

When I was in 8th grade, my teacher had me play [in] a school recital. For some reason, to get up on the auditorium stage, I avoided the stairs and instead stood on a chair, first hoisting my cello up and then myself. I imagine I looked pretty awkward, and I got a few laughs from the audience. Anyway, I was mortified.”

Why do you love about music?

“I love music because it is how I relate to all that is greater than myself. Music helps me soar.”

How has music changed your life?

“It hasn’t changed my life; it is my life.”

Catch David and the rest of the FSO in our next concert, Symphonic Pipes at Hood College, on March 19, 2017, at 3 p.m.