Meet the MSO: Rob Patterson, clarinet
We’re bringing the stage to you! We asked Rob Patterson, clarinet for the MSO, a few questions about his experience with the Modesto Symphony Orchestra thus far, what he’s looking forward to and more about himself: from his favorite school subject, and his answer to the question: dogs or cats? Read on and learn more about your Modesto Symphony Orchestra!
MSO: Tell us about yourself, and how you came to play with the Modesto Symphony Orchestra?
I came to Modesto in a very round about way. I met Matthew Oshida, the orchestra’s personnel manager, while we were both playing with the Huntsville (AL) Symphony. We both were from out of town and needed rides so we bonded quickly. After that Matthew started asking me to come out to Modesto. It seemed crazy (I was living in Washington DC at the time) but I figured it would be a fun adventure and I’d get to also visit my older brother in San Francisco. I had so much fun that I’ve been coming back ever since!
Rob Patterson (back left), clarinet. circa 2018
MSO: What is your favorite memory playing with the MSO so far?
My favorite memory so far was playing basset horn on the Mozart Requiem last season. I had never played a basset horn before and it was a great adventure. The guy playing second basset horn with me is now in the New York Philharmonic, so it really was a great experience!
MSO: What are you most looking forward to for the rest of the 2023/2024 season?
The Copland Concerto will be a season highlight for me, what a treat to play such a beautiful piece of music with my friends.
Get to know ROB!
Besides music, what was your favorite subject in school?
I love languages, I finished the Spanish program in my high school early so I started up French as well! I have several of Chinese speaking students and am currently working on my Chinese with DuoLingo, boy is that hard…
What sport would you play in the Olympics? I would compete in Squash, which will officially become an Olympic sport in 2028!
Olive, calico cat and Dewey, beagle
Dogs or cats?
Both. I have a beagle named Dewey and a calico named Olive.
Go to the beach, or go to the mountains?
Sorry to dodge the question again, but both! I have a lot of family in Colorado and I love hiking there. When I go to the beach though I love just completely letting go and basking in the sun. If I’m in a good spot for it, I do love to go snorkeling.
Come see Rob play on stage, and meet him along with the rest of the orchestra at Symphonic Soundtrack this March 15th and 16th at the Gallo Center for the Arts!
