Q & A with violinist Stephen Rose

Violinist Stephen Rose performs with the ESO on Nov. 4 and 5, 2023.

Violinist Stephen Rose, who has held the position of Principal Second Violinist with The Cleveland Orchestra and has been a member of the faculty of the Cleveland Institute of Music for over two decades, will be featured on Brahms’ Double Concerto for Violin and Cello in the Elgin Symphony Orchestra’s Nov. 4 and 5 concerts at the Hemmens Cultural Center. Tickets are available at www.ElginSymphony.org. We recently asked him a few questions.

How long have you been playing the violin and how did you get started?

I was 4 years old when I started playing the violin…so 49 years! My parents are both musicians and started me on the violin.

What is special to you about the Brahms Double Concerto?  

The Brahms Double Concerto is a piece that I have loved for decades. Brahms has always been one of my favorite composers, to both listen to and perform. This piece is filled with such extraordinary writing for both the soloists AND the orchestra. I particularly enjoy the chance to share the solo duties with the cello, and it is even more special to share the stage with as close a friend as I have in Brant (Brant Taylor, cellist, joins Stephen for this piece.)

What has been your most memorable moment as an orchestra musician?

This is difficult for me to answer, as there are so many wonderful moments. I tend to think more about places and concert halls vs. specific performances. We are blessed to have such a miraculous concert hall here in Cleveland with Severance Music Center. I always look forward to our tours that include Vienna’s Musikverein, and of course Carnegie Hall in New York City. There have been extraordinary performances in these three places and of course many more places too!

You are involved in teaching and mentoring the next generation of musicians in your discipline. What advice do you have for young violinists?

I think it’s important to remember that playing the violin, or any instrument, is a lifelong journey. It’s about constantly searching…there is no final answer. There can be frustrating days, but it is important to stay true to the process and to know that even when it feels like there is a bump in the road, growth is still happening.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

I am truly looking forward to being in Elgin! I am so appreciative of the opportunity to play this piece that is dear to me with such a dear friend and such a terrific group of musicians.