Nancy Kidd, Double Bass

Where did you grow up? Delmar, NY (Outside of Albany).
Favorite meal or restaurant? Anything with seafood.
Coffee or Tea? Neither.
What instrument do you play in the RI Philharmonic? Double Bass.

What inspired you to take up that instrument and how old were you when you started? 

I was ten years old and my elementary school had an instrument program. I was going to randomly choose flute or violin, but my mom steered me toward the cello (long story). I had to have a second choice, and I remembered there was some “big instrument” they told us about. Luckily for me, my mom knew it was the bass. The orchestra teacher put me on bass since I was the only one with it as either a first or second choice, and I was tall for a ten-year-old. So, I guess it was chance that brought me to the bass, but it was a lucky thing.

 

What’s your favorite composition for that instrument? 

Bottesini’s “Introduction and Gavotte”.

How long have you been playing in the RI Philharmonic?

 I have been a tenured member for nearly 15 years and subbed for about 5 years before that.

What is the best performance you’ve ever heard?

 Dvorak’s Cello Concerto performed at the Chautauqua Institute.

What do you want people to know about the RI Philharmonic Orchestra? 

We really enjoy playing together and I think this shows in our performances.

How are you keeping yourself occupied while being at home all day?

 I am still teaching remotely and taking a lot of walks.

You’re stuck on a desert island… what book, music, album, artist and movie do you want with you?

Book: Harry Potter. Music: Stravinsky’s Pulcinella Suite. Movie: Star Wars.