Haley Martin is grateful for the invitation she got to join the East Metro Symphony Orchestra. She had the opportunity to perform with the orchestra several years ago as a student at East Ridge High School in Woodbury, participating in EMSO’s Side-By-Side concerts. So it was a welcome surprise when EMSO trombonist Carl Meincke reminded her of that experience. “I was so happy Carl reminded me of EMSO and recommended I join. I know how powerful it can be to participate in the process of making music. I love being a part of this orchestra.”
Currently a student studying elementary education with a minor in music at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, Haley has been playing music since she was a kid. “I play the oboe and English horn. I have been playing the oboe since sixth grade and then was given the opportunity to begin playing English horn my junior year of high school. I love how unique both instruments sound and the difficulty that comes with playing them.”
Since joining EMSO in last January, Haley has already had some great musical moments. “I think my favorite memory so far would be our Mardi Gras! performance at the Lake Elmo Inn. It was so fun getting to have a glass of wine with [fellow EMSO oboist] Leanne Ekstadt right before the concert! It was just a very fun performance.”
Haley is looking forward to seeing how the orchestra will grow in the coming years. “I think I am most looking forward to seeing how Craig Hara, our new conductor, leads our orchestra. It seems like he has already taken us so far. I hope EMSO is able to continuously grow in members and supporters. I hope we can all grow and learn from each other as musicians, but I mostly hope that we can all continue playing and celebrating our passion for music. I look forward to remaining a member for years to come!”