Allen Carter

Principal Tuba

Tubist, Allen (Al) Carter has over thirty years of experience as a professional musician. He is proud to be the conductor of the Guelph Symphony Youth Orchestra and as well as the principal tubist of the Guelph Symphony Orchestra. As busy as possible, he is also the principal tubist of the Brantford Symphony Orchestra and is first call for others, including the Toronto Concert Orchestra. Al has held principal tuba positions in the Kingston Symphony Orchestra and National Academy Orchestra and is a freelance musician in the Kitchener- Waterloo area and beyond.

What do you think is the most rewarding aspect of being part of an orchestra?
I love the communication between musicians who are sharing the performance: emoting, eye contact, attention to nuance, and a collective understanding and interpretation of a piece of music. There are few joys better than making art with friends and colleagues whom you love and respect.

What is your favourite GSO memory?
Playing Stravinsky's "Firebird" at the Basilica

Do you play another instrument or is there one you wished you could play?
I have always wanted to play the bassoon!