Amy Collins
Cello
Has played with the Salina Symphony since:
2003; 1995-97 while in high school
Hometown: Salina
Current City: Salina
Education:
I attended Wichita State University and majored in music performance. I then earned an associate’s degree in medical transcription with an emphasis in medical office assistance from Brown Mackie College-Salina.
Earliest musical memory:
Going to Salina Municipal Band concerts with my grandparents at Sunset Park when I was a child. Right after the concert, I got to beat one of the big bass drums. I thought that was kind of neat.
Best part of being a Salina Symphony musician:
Coming together and playing with a bunch of wonderfully talented musicians in and around the Salina area. I enjoy the challenging repertoire. I also enjoy walking out of rehearsal feeling enthused when we really accomplished something.
Most memorable performance with the Salina Symphony:
The Pikes Peak Ringers concert last May. They were AWESOME – and I learned a few technique tricks that helped me be a better bell ringer.
Favorite composer:
Tchaikovsky
What kind of music do you enjoy listening to?
Although I’m a classical freak, I also love Josh Groban and Michael Buble. I also enjoy Frank Sinatra, Stevie Wonder, Steely Dan, Gino Vannelli, Wendy Woo and Acoustic Eidolon.
How do you spend your free time?
Playing with the dog, cooking, Facebook, Guitar Hero, going for walks and handbell choir.
Whom do you admire?
Ray Charles. He’s one of the very few musicians out there who overcame certain obstacles in his life (blindness and racism) to get where he wanted to be.
What is your greatest accomplishment?
Serving as interim principal cello a few years back.