Originally from Brandon, Manitoba, Laurie Matiation is currently Third Horn with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra. She has appeared as a soloist with the CPO and can frequently be heard on CBC Radio. In addition to her orchestral duties, Laurie conducts workshops and clinics, performs in chamber ensembles, and teaches at Mount Royal College and the University of Calgary. She began her professional career in 1978 as second horn with the Atlantic Symphony Orchestra, and has been a member of the CPO since 1983. Laurie received her Bachelor of Music Degree in Performance at Brandon University, and later continued studies in Chicago, Banff, and Arizona. Some of her teachers have included, William Gordon, Dale Clevenger, and Thomas Bacon.

Who do you think are or were the masters of your instrument?
Tough question… there are so many fine wonderful horn players out there, it would be difficult to identify just one. But, I would have to say that the horn player who impacted me the most when I was learning horn was Dennis Brain. I would sit around for hours and listen to his recordings, aspiring some day to hopefully sound a little like him!

Tell us a little about your instrument.
Other than it is the best instrument in the world to play…. I play a Berg horn… made by a Canadian Horn maker, Keith Berg, who resides in B.C.

Do you play in any groups/ensembles outside of the orchestra?
Not any designated groups, other than the odd free lance gig. The horn section of the CPO gets together to do school concerts throughout the year.

What kinds of music do you listen to when you’re “off-duty?” What’s currently on your iPod?
Ah, technology! I still use cassettes!! When I do listen to music, I usually listen to some light jazz. But, usually I crave peace and quiet…we use our ears a lot for a living, and sometimes all you want is peace and quiet!

How do you prepare for a concert? Any “pre-game” rituals?
Don’t eat spicy food or suishi…the salt and spices may give you drymouth! (or indigestion!).

How old were you when you started playing?
Ten years old! Yikes!