Bob Phillips
Principal Trombone
I have been a working musician in Ontario for over 50 years. This includes Symphony orchestras locally and internationally, Stratford theatre, Royal Alexander theatre, Roy Thomson hall and Banff School of Fine Arts. I'm currently performing/singing in a Swing band and many Military bands. The Royal Winter Fair and CNE have been regular engagements as well. Private teaching and small ensemble work continue to be a source of joy and fulfillment, including Rock, R&B and Funk, Dixieland and Jazz improvisation.
Orchestra work for theatre is also frequent, as are in-studio recording sessions. This summer I'll be flying to Japan to perform with the World Civic Orchestra. I'm enjoying being a new grandfather, father and husband and still find time to play pick-up hockey.
What inspired you to pick up your instrument for the first time, and how has your journey evolved since then?
My local community band was my beginning.
Can you share a memorable performance moment that still resonates with you today?
Singing at Roy Thomson Hall with Astronaut Chris Hadfield shortly after he returned from the ISS. We performed Space Oddity and the Tribute to the ISS. He's a very down-to-earth rocket scientist.
How do you prepare mentally and physically before a big concert?
I rehearse my difficult passages until they become part of my muscle memory and aim for proper pre-show rest and focus.
What is the most challenging piece of music you've ever performed, and what did you learn from the experience?
The GSO performed Stravinsky's Rite of Spring and the week of rehearsals and the show were like running a marathon a day for a week! Exhausting but thrilling.
If you could perform in any concert hall around the world, which one would it be and why?
I've visited the Sydney Opera house but would love to perform there someday.
Who is your favorite composer, and what piece of theirs do you love playing the most?
I thoroughly enjoy Gustav Holst's writing and use of brass. Brahms loved the brass section as well. The Planets has always been one of my favourites
What is one piece of advice you would give to aspiring musicians?
Marry someone with money.
Can you share a funny or unexpected backstage story from a past performance?
Meeting musical, arts and sports celebrities backstage is fun.. Chatting with Gordon Lightfoot in the wings at RTH was great. Exiting the ice at the ACC with the 48th Highlanders prior to a Maple Leafs game and watching the Tuba player's kilt come undone was quite revealing. Our military band once stood at attention for an hour at Queen's Park in scarlet wool tunics while the Queen inspected us. Learning how to faint was obligatory.
What non-musical hobbies or interests do you have that influence or inspire your musicality?
I play pickup hockey, another team effort like a musical ensemble. I enjoy hiking and camping in the outdoors to refresh myself.
If you could have a dinner party with any musician, living or deceased, who would they be and why?
I would love to meet George Gershwin and discuss from where he drew his inspiration.
What is your favourite GSO memory?
Performing The Planets and Rite of Spring.
Do you play another instrument or is there one you wished you could play?
I've always wanted to play the bagpipes as my heritage is very important to me.
What is your favourite food/book/movie/guilty pleasure?
My favourite foods so far were those I experienced in Italy.
What is the best thing about being a member of Guelph Symphony?
The wonderful feeling of contributing to a fine musical performance is like no other.
If you couldn’t be a musician, what would you want to do?
I believe I would enjoy being a professional athlete on a team.