Dan Sanchez, viola

Here is an interview with Dan from 2021:

What instruments do you play?
Viola, Violin

How long have you played the violin and viola?
About 26 years - I started with my school program in the 6th grade.

How long have you been a Wilmington Symphony Orchestra musician?
Fall 2019

What do you do for a career?
I wear many hats. I'm a financial services professional by day, but I also teach and perform music for weddings and private events.

Where did you grow up?
My parents were in the Army, so we moved around every few years. Germany, Texas, Hawaii, New Mexico, Utah. We eventually settled down in Utah for a while; that's where I pursued my Undergrad in Music Education.

What is your favorite song, artist, and/or musical memory?
I go through phases with my favorite songs and artists. I've been listening to a lot of the Hot Club of San Francisco lately, along with the techno-swing sensation Caravan Palace.

Favorite meal or restaurant?
Tandoori Bites

Favorite beverage?
Coffee

What is your favorite vacation?
Japan. My wife and I met there when we were both teaching English. We'd like to make it back, to reminisce, to explore, and to enjoy the sights and culture with our daughter.

You're stuck on a desert island... What book, music/album/artist and/or movie do you want with you??
I can't listen to or watch the same thing for too long. I'm tempted to go with something practical, like a self-help book on surviving/thriving on a desert island.

What's your pet situation?
No pets, but I love dogs and fish. Someday I'll make that happen.

What do you want people to know about the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra?
There is a surprising amount of talent in Wilmington! I've been really impressed by the caliber of musicians in this group. We really get down to business in rehearsals, and everyone is dedicated to making each performance remarkable. And the violas rock!

How are you keeping yourself occupied while being at home all day?
I am so thankful to be able to continue working remotely through the pandemic. I listen to music and podcasts during the day. I've been able to help homeschool my daughter, which has been a challenge but nice.

Any words of wisdom to help others through this?
I've been coming up with micro-goals to get through each week. Just little things that I've been meaning to do or learn. It's helped to find goals that don't require travel or mass gatherings. Plenty of time to practice and compose/arrange music for a time when can perform again. We'll get through this!

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