Dorothy Vreeswyk-Kidd
Trumpet
Dorothy Vreeswyk-Kidd is an accomplished trumpet player, educator and conductor. Dorothy graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University with an Honours Bachelor of Music. After graduation, Dorothy taught music and performed in Edmonton, Alberta for many years. Dorothy is currently Head of Music at John F Ross in Guelph and her bands and ensembles have won many awards and gold standards at Festivals throughout Ontario. She currently plays second trumpet with the Guelph Symphony Orchestra, is the sessional trumpet instructor at the University of Guelph and conducts the Cambridge Community Band and the Cambridge Jazz Band.
What inspired you to pick up your instrument for the first time, and how has your journey evolved since then?
I began playing trumpet in Grade 9 - a trumpet player always played for my church services and I loved the sound. I still love the sound of the trumpet and am so excited I get to play and make the same sound I heard many years ago.
How do you prepare mentally and physically before a big concert?
Lots and lots of practice. Any concert will go well if I am prepared.
What is the most challenging piece of music you've ever performed, and what did you learn from the experience?
Stravinsky Rite of Spring. It was my favourite piece during university and such a thrill to get a chance to play it.
What non-musical hobbies or interests do you have that influence or inspire your musicality?
I love to cook and I feel that cooking is a bit like music. You have the low notes (earthy flavours) that have to be balanced with the high notes (salt, sweet). I also love to cook with music blasting in the background!
What is your favourite GSO memory?
Playing with my late husband Graham in the bass section. Our kids would be sitting right at the front and Graham could keep an eye on them during the concert. It is such a fond memory - us making music together.
Do you play another instrument or is there one you wished you could play?
French horn. Love that sound!
What is the best thing about being a member of Guelph Symphony?
The wide variety of music I get to play and the great people I have met.