Activities/organizations outside of the CSO: I teach privately, and love working with the CSYO youngsters to help them prepare for performances, and perhaps an orchestral career. I am also a big advocate of TNR for our stray cats, and help work with a local rescue organization.

Inspiration as a musician: My colleagues onstage, the historical background of a work and what was going on in the composer’s world at the time, and having a good instrument to play.

Favorite orchestral work: Verdi “Requiem.”

Favorite things to do in Cincinnati: I especially enjoy the parks here very much. The city has changed so much since I moved here to play 30 years ago. Since this is my last season in the orchestra, I am looking forward to attending LIVE and IN-PERSON CSO performances as an audience member in 2022!

Fun fact about Joan: I have nine kitties - all rescues. I also love working in my gardens, doing needlework of all kinds, and have been an avid reader since I was a child.

How can the Orchestra make the world a better place? The Orchestra has such a positive impact on every person I meet. They are in awe of the history of the institution itself, love Music Hall, and are overcome by the sound, especially if they have never attended a concert before. I get so much feedback about how the music and the Orchestra enriches peoples’ lives, especially in hard times. Every single one of us that performs here in the Symphony and Pops serves as an ambassador for Cincinnati wherever we travel. I believe the individual musicians make more of a positive impression than they realize. I am so fortunate to be here!