From the blog of NSO (National Symphony Orchestra) principal bassist Robert Oppelt, an interview with the NSO’s newest member of the bass section, Paul DeNola. Paul and his wife Jiyoung were two of our favorite people, and we miss them very much – it’s great to hear that they’re doing so well back in D.C.! Here’s his comments about his time adjusting to life in the NSO:
It’s really very fun for my wife and me to explore and learn more about any new area. Portland was such a beautiful and friendly city to live in. Getting around is so easy there and the people seem pretty relaxed and enjoy life. DC is such a vibrant and intense city that it’s exciting to go almost anywhere! There’s also a lot going on with the music scene that affords us a lot more audience opportunities than we’ve had in a while. Really, all of the great orchestras, soloists, and chamber groups wind up playing here at some time or other. We’re also so close to all the great east coast cities, not to mention Europe.