Rhonda Cassano

What do you want patrons of the Symphony to know about you?
One of my passions is teaching a subject called Body Mapping, which teaches musicians (although I’ve worked with non-musicians as well) to move efficiently and easily, thus avoiding pain and tension when they play.

What would you be doing if you weren’t a professional musician?
I would be a healer of some kind. Perhaps an energy healer. I’ve been a music teacher for a long time and I love helping people.  I can see myself expanding that beyond music. I’ve learned so much on my own journey to finding happiness within and It would be very gratifying to help others on their journey.

What do you do in your spare time (other than practice!)?
Don’t have much spare time, but when I do, I exercise, take care of my organic gardens, take walks in any place of beauty I can find.  My ideal vacation is hiking to the top of a mountain in North Carolina, sitting on a rock, contemplating and feeling gratitude for the magnificence of nature.

What is your favorite thing about being a professional musician?
I love the connection that occurs with audiences, especially in a chamber music setting where everything is up close and personal.  Music is a very special form of communication that reaches into our souls and to know that I can create that communication and emotion and reach people on that level is spectacular.

What sport(s) do you participate in?
Not sure if these count as sports, but I’m into movement of all kinds: yoga, pilates, zumba, gyrokinesis, running, hiking, weight training, and I’ve recently taken up bachata and salsa dancing!

Do you have a favorite team?
Those dog sled teams are pretty cute…

What is your favorite food?
Believe it or not, KALE! My food choices are primarily based on what is healthiest for my body and I love finding ways to make those choices delicious as well. One of my goals is to become a “gourmet” vegan chef.  That being said, I must admit I do enjoy a nice mojito once in a while!

Who is your favorite composer?
Depends on who I’m listening to at the moment.  Bach can be very soulful and is definitely at the top of the list.  There’s a certain Bach aria with violin and tenor that makes me cry every time.

What are you currently listening to?
Various music, but mostly these days I use it for meditation.  I’d love to put more things on there but I’m “tech” challenged and have no idea how to do it.   I would add some bluegrass for sure.

Education
Attended Florida State University where I received Bachelor of Music Education and Master of Music in performance degrees.