I do hope everybody had a merry Christmas and a happy new year! I thought I would start out 2024 with a little music.
My personal musical claim to fame—my closest encounters in front of an audience—was when I was a member of the Campus School choir. I believe it was fourth or fifth grade, and the furthest I went to perform was at MTSU. Of course, you did not have to sing your way in to become a member of that choir. Everybody was a member.
But now, let’s turn to this month’s Murfreesboro Maker: a gentleman who, by the way, is only 20 years old, and is a musical prodigy—Chandler Currier. I sat down with Chandler, who is one of the newest members of the Nashville Symphony, to learn more about his musical pursuits and personal interests. I was so impressed with his knowledge and his manners. Not only has he been playing music, specifically the tuba, since he was 11 years old, today he can say he’s played at Carnegie Hall in New York City and also for the London Symphony. It was a privilege for me to be able to sit down and talk with Chandler Currier.
Mr. Murfreesboro: Tell us a little bit about yourself. Where were you born?
Chandler Currier: Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
How old are you?
Twenty.
Who is your family?
Mike, Jill and Chase Currier.
Where did you grow up?
Smyrna.
Where did you go to school?
Stewart’s Creek High School, Interlochen Arts Academy and The Juilliard School.
I understand you have a passion for music. What instrument do you play?
Tuba.
Why do you play that instrument?
I originally started on trombone, but then our band needed a tuba, so I switched.
Where all have you played?
Carnegie Hall, Alice Tully Hall, David Geffen Hall, Schermerhorn Symphony Center, Gaylord Opryland Hotel, Corson Auditorium and Kresge Auditorium at the Interlochen Center for the Arts, the Barbican Center in London, Ingram Hall at Blair School of Music, Steve and Judy Turner Recital Hall at Blair School of Music.
What is your favorite piece to play?
Paul Hindemith’s “Mathis der Maler.”
What’s it like playing in a symphony?
It’s exciting, makes me feel alive, and gets my adrenaline pumping. It’s also an incredibly rewarding experience and gives me a greater appreciation for giving back to my community.
Who is your conductor?
Giancarlo Guerrero.
What type of awards have you won?
Keston Max Award, 2019 Tennessee Music Education Association Concerto Competition.
When you’re not playing the tuba, what do you like to do? What are your other hobbies?
I enjoy various outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, kayaking, biking, hammocking and camping. I also enjoy laser tag, social events, exploring new things, eating a variety of foods, watching movies and spending time with family.
What is your favorite food?
Steak.
What is your favorite movie?
The Harry Potter series.
What makes playing the tuba so special to you?
I love being the foundation of the brass section, and I’ve always resonated with lower frequencies more.
What type of music do you like to listen to?
Country, pop, jazz, lo-fi, bluegrass.
Do you have a favorite band?
No, I really enjoy listening to a variety of artists.
Do you have a pet?
Yes, our tabby cat, Polly.
Could you see yourself playing in a big band like the Tommy Dorsey band?
Yes, I would love to have that experience.
How many hours a day do you practice playing the tuba?
Three hours.
I’m assuming you have to dress up to be in the symphony. Do you like that?
Yes, it’s fun to get the chance to wear fancy clothes and the uniformity is also great.
How many tried out for the tubist spot for the Nashville Symphony?
Over 100.
Were they from all around the world?
Yes.
Who are some of your major influences over the years?
My parents, and my teachers Alan Baer, Joe Alessi, Thomas Riccobono and Gilbert Long.
Where do you see yourself 5 to 10 years from now?
Continuing with the symphony, maybe make an album, starting a family, and making a lot of music!
