Charles Robinson

French Horn

How long have you played?

I started in 2006 in the sixth grade.

Occupation (or what keeps you busy when you’re not making music):

I’m currently an assistant manager for a Sonic Drive-In. I will also be working on a voiceover career. I also cohost a podcast on Spotify called Climbing the Castle!

How did you get started playing your instrument?

My father, Russell Robinson, was a high school band director and had me at least start band. I was going to try out percussion or trumpet, but luckily got directed to the French Horn and fell in love with it!

Musical groups I’ve played with:

OFO
Ozark Mountains British Brass Band
Arkansas Winds
Arkansas Winds’ Horn Force
NWA Heritage Band

Favorite piece I’ve ever performed:

Elsa’s Procession to the Cathedral by Richard Wagner from the opera Lohengrin. It’s an absolutely beautiful yet powerful piece.

A piece I’d love to perform someday:

Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5 in E minor (specifically the second movement). It has one of the most beautiful horn solos of all time.

Favorite composer or musical style:

As a horn player, one of the most obvious picks is John Williams. I’m a big fan of playing movie themes and broadway!

Favorite hobby besides music:

I am a gamer. Video games, board games, cards, and recently learned D&D!

Favorite food or restaurant:

My favorite restaurant is Big Whiskey’s! The wings are great!

Favorite movie or TV show:

Hercules

A place I’d love to visit:

Japan!

Something most people don’t know about me:

I’m neurodivergent and struggle with certain tasks, but I don’t let that hold me back!

If I could have dinner with any musician (past or present), it would be:

John Philip Sousa. Why? So I can convince him to give the horns better parts!

What do you enjoy most about playing in the Ozark Festival Orchestra?

This is my first real experience with an orchestra and I fell in love with it after two rehearsals and a concert. Rehearsals are ran well and the group as a whole was so welcoming to me.

What advice would you give someone thinking about joining?

Be ready to work! Some of these pieces can be tough, but are very worth it!

Favorite orchestra memory:

As previously mentioned, this is my first time with an orchestra, but my favorite thing so far was the pie auction on my first concert.