One World Symphony = Our Artists = Profiles = Jan Hoeper

Birth Place: Evanston, Illinois and Raised in Little Rock, Arkansas

Education: B.A. from Indiana University, Bloomington, IN

1. Are any of your family members musicians? If so, what do they do?
My parents never played or listened to classical music when I was growing up. However, in the last few years, my mom has taken up piano, so I like to think I've had some influence. She still despises Mahler, though, so my influence only goes so far!

2. What has been the highlight of your One World Symphony career to date?
Seeing One World pull off its first concert, a holiday concert in 2000, was tremendous. Even more remarkable is that the orchestra has continued to grow, develop, and improve.

3. What would you say is your favourite piece of music?
If you know me, you know what composer I will choose. However, it is impossible for me to pick a "favorite" composition by my favorite composer, Mahler. It changes every day. But since I've been listening a lot to Mahler's songs, today I guess I would choose "Ich bin der Welt abhanden gekommen." The profound wisdom and nuanced emotion in that song always move me to tears.

4. What's the best thing about One World Symphony?
The enthusiasm and friendliness of all the musiciansand staff and the vitality and energy that One World members exhibit. It surely must be clear to anyone who sees a OWS performance that the musicians not only enjoy the music but enjoy making music with each other. One World musicians are also adventurous in their music-making, so that they make the music anew each time they play it. One World combines the virtues of professional-caliber and grassroots orchestras.

5. What music do you listen to in the car or subway?
I love large vocal and orchestral works. When I'm not in the mood for classical music, I listen to Bob Dylan, bluegrass, or Bulgarian music.

6. What is your favourite drink?
Um, coffee?

7. When you do have some free time, how do you relax?
Reading, knitting, art projects, guitar.

8. Why do you continue to perform with One World Symphony when you can perform with other ensembles that would offer more financial benefits?
I think it's the sense of comraderie and the fun-loving spirit of the members. They exhibit a true love of music and that comes across in their attitude toward each other and in performances.

9. If you weren't a musician what would you be?
Sad? Depressed? Helpless? Music gives us all a way to express our deepest emotions. It is psychologically vital. Although I'm not a professional musician, music is important to me as a language of emotion.

10. Why would you recommend to other musicians and public to participate with One World Symphony?
It's an exciting, innovative organization with a lot of energy. Because everyone is doing it for fun, it creates a good environment for music-making. It is also getting noticed on the competitive NYC music scene, which says a lot of the quality of its musicians and staff.

11. What are your hobbies?
As I mentioned above, reading, knitting, guitar, Mahler obsession, painting, sketching, and travel...!