Kate Caliendo
Second Horn
What do you want patrons of the Symphony to know about you?
In addition to playing the French Horn, I also speak French and spent a summer living in Paris.
Do you have any pre-concert rituals or routines?
Making sure to be centered and present.
What would you be doing if you weren’t a classical musician?
I would work at an art gallery.
What teacher, mentor or other influencer inspired you the most?
My father was my high school band director and first musical influence
What do you do in your spare time?
I love to read, exercise, bake, travel.
What has been your favorite moment onstage?
Performing the music of John Williams with the composer conducting.
Do you have any pets?
I have a cat named Scout who is very feisty!
What is your favorite thing about being a professional musician?
Getting to travel, and meet and collaborate with so many amazing people. I am always learning new things about myself and the world.
What sports do you participate in?
Running, yoga and hiking.
What is your favorite food?
Thin crust New York-style pizza
Who is your favorite composer?
I never get tired of playing Tchaikovsky.
Career Highlights
Performed on Houston Symphony’s Grammy Award-winning recording of Wozzeck live, performed as a soloist on Schumann’s Konzertstuck with the Charleston Symphony Orchestra.
Education
Rice University, Manhattan School of Music. I started college at the Manhattan School of Music with Metropolitan Opera horn player Michelle Baker. After two years I moved to Houston and earned my undergraduate and masters degrees at Rice University studying with William VerMeulen. I’ve also worked closely with Jeff Nelsen, Dale Clevenger and Julie Landsman.