Jim Cunningham speaks with two of the newest cohort of Paul J. Ross Fellows, a two-year professional training program. Oboist Ben Goodley and trumpet Raúl Orellana share their journeys to the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.
Jim Cunningham speaks with two of the newest cohort of Paul J. Ross Fellows, a two-year professional training program. Oboist Ben Goodley and trumpet Raúl Orellana share their journeys to the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.
The Fellowship was founded in honor of Paul J. Ross, the first African American musician to receive a full-time contract from the Pittsburgh Symphony. Ben and Raúl talk about the application process, learning from symphony members, and performing with the PSO. Ben hails from Atlanta, Georgia and received his second master's degree from Rice University. Raúl was born in Puerto Rico, lived in Florida, and joins the PSO after a year with the St. Louis Symphony.
Together with Christian Harvey, double bass, and Jacob Ogbu, trombone, Ben and Raúl began their Fellowship this season, and will remain with the orchestra through 2028. Learn more about the Paul J. Ross Fellowship, and find bios on current Fellows, on the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra's website.