A Lovely Chat with JoAnn Falletta
Mon, 11 Nov 2019 08:00 am
JoAnn Falletta has quite the discography, between her work conducting both the Virginia Symphony and the Buffalo Philharmonic. That's why you've likely heard many recordings with Ms. Falletta at the podium on 90.9. If you haven't yet checked out her new recording with the Buffalo Philharmonic featuring Fabio Bidini as soloist for Brahms' Second Piano Concerto along with selections from Prokofiev's Romeo and Juliet, then you're missing out! Not long after the album's release, I had the privilege of chatting with Ms. Falletta, who just happens to be one of today's finest conductors. She told me the story behind how this album came about:
 

She went on to explain how they selected the repertoire.
 

She has had some amazing opportunities to conduct the world's leading orchestras. I asked if she has a favorite memory or a certain moment in her career that stands out.

She has been with the Buffalo Philharmonic for 20 years! When she became their Music Director back in 1999, she was the first woman to lead a major American Orchestra!

I asked if she's ever run into and challenges being a woman in her field. She has a great attitude that I'm sure has contributed to her success.
 

She told me how she decided she wanted to become a conductor.

When not on the podium, she has quite a few hobbies.
 

Be sure to check out more from JoAnn Falletta when you listen to 90.9 WGUC! You can also listen online at wguc.org, via the free WGUC app, or your smart speaker.