Lori Watkins

Flute/Piccolo

How long have you played?

43 Years

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

Software Developer

How did you get started playing your instrument?

I started with piano when I was 5 years old, then picked up flute in the 5th grade. Once I found piccolo, I was hooked for life!

Musical groups I’ve played with:

Favorite piece I’ve ever performed:

How can I pick just one? Some of my favorites:

A piece I’d love to perform someday:

Favorite composer or musical style:

Offenbach or Bizet overtures all day long!

Favorite hobby besides music:

Mountain biking

Favorite food or restaurant:

Medium Rare Ribeye with a baked potato

Favorite movie or TV show:

Silence of the Lambs

A place I’d love to visit:

Whistler, Canada for the mountain biking

Something most people don’t know about me:

Since my "real job" is in tech, most people don't know I am a musician on the side.

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

John Williams -- although I'd probably be in such awe that I'd be too shocked to speak!

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

The rehersals give me my weekly dose of music that soothes my soul and feeds my creativity.

What advice would you give someone thinking about joining?

Go for it! You'll improve as a musician and have a great time.

Favorite orchestra memory:

Four good friends surprized me by driving over an hour to attend a concert I was playing in. I felt so much joy sharing the music with them.