Name: Betsy Husby
Member of DSSO since: 1975
DSSO Position: Principal Cello
Education: Undergraduate – University of Wisconsin Superior
Bachelor of Arts – Stony Brook University, Long Island, NY
Master of Music – Stony Brook University, Long Island, NY
Doctor of Musical Arts – Stony Brook University, Long Island, NY
What made you decide to pursue a career in music?
When I was 11 years old, I said to myself, “Music is me, and I am music.” I knew that was my career path.
What has been the highlight of your career thus far?
Performing in the 1986 Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow.
What made you choose to play cello?
My older brother, Steve Highland, Assistant Concertmaster of the DSSO, was already playing violin, and I wanted to follow suit, but not play the same instrument.
What’s the most challenging thing about playing the cello?
The most challenging thing about playing my instrument is the constant practicing and training necessary to always be “on top of your game.” Performing opportunities can come up suddenly, and you have to have something always prepared.
Do you have a favorite piece of orchestral repertoire to play and/or listen to?
I can’t think of any one particular piece, but I love Tchaikovsky’s orchestrations.
When you’re not performing, what do you do for fun?
I love to grow, plant, and eat potatoes. I have a garden up north, with a wide variety of cold climate vegetables such as peas, brussel sprouts, cabbage, broccoli, and carrots. I also love to hunt and fish.
What’s one thing you hope people take away from a DSSO concert?
I want people to bathed in a both visual and auditory experience that will lift up them out of their normal everyday world.
Do you have any advice for those looking to pursue a career in music?
My advice is that anyone looking to pursue a career in music shouldn’t have any personal doubts about the choice. Music has always been a clear career path for me.
