Kay Schulte Werth, Oboe, English Horn & Bassoon
Played with the Salina Symphony since: My first year was 1979. I have mostly played oboe and english horn; though within the past five years, I have filled in on bassoon.
Hometown: Victoria, KS
Current City: Hays, KS
Education: BA, Piano Performance & Music Education, Marymount College; MA, Woodwind Pedagogy, Ohio University
Job Title: Instructor of Double Reeds at Fort Hays State University
Earliest musical memories:
Growing up in a large musical family, we were exposed to many contrasting genres of music. We were always singing. My parents played in a big band; my father directed the church choir; my brothers played in a country band; and I joined my sister playing in the Hays Symphony.
Best part of being a Salina Symphony musician:
The best part is collaborating with remarkable artists and feeling like I’m a part of the family. I have had the pleasure of playing with some musicians since 1979 (i.e Wendy Stein, Dean Kranzler)
Favorite composer: There are so many wonderful composers! I think this depends on the performing medium and context of delivery. I love any of Chopin’s piano music; Bach, Beethoven and Brahms for orchestral playing.
What kind of music do you enjoy listening to? I generally listen to what we are currently working on with the Symphony, but mostly Pandora. I love Frank Sinatra, Sara Bareilles, and Phil Vassar. . . a quite eclectic variety.
How do you spend your free time? I enjoy cycling, spending time in the kitchen and traveling with my husband, Dick, to visit our children, Preston and Austin.
Whom do you admire? Anyone who can balance their waking hours to lead a spiritual life, excel at their profession, give unselfishly while maintaining a humble heart. Some individuals who have been my heroes are Eric Stein, Wendell Nickell and Lyle Dilley.
What is your greatest accomplishment? Raising two wonderful sons.