Brian Stotz
Instrument: Percussion
With the RPO since: 1977
Hometown: Rochester
Non-RPO activities and hobbies: My second job as Percussion Technician at Eastman, which includes logistics and maintenance of about 1,600 various instruments; my third job as owner/operator of Repaircussions which is my instrument repair business; playing in the RPO Marimba Band; working around the house; staying very physically fit.
What music school did you attend, and who were your most inspirational teachers? Eastman; former RPO Timpanist & colleague John Beck
Favorite books/movies: As an avid movie fan this is impossible to answer!
What kinds of music do you enjoy listening to? Besides classical I also enjoy oldies rock & roll and soul!
And if you had to pick just one, what’s your favorite piece? Most likely Mahler 2nd Symphony
People would be surprised to know…that I have donated over 200 pints of blood; that's 25 gallons.
What do you most enjoy about living in the Rochester area? The change of seasons and being able to get anywhere in the area in about 20 minutes.
What are your favorite restaurants in Rochester, and why? Sinbad's Mediterranean because of the amazing flavors and the health benefits of the food.
The RPO is essential to the Rochester community because…it adds a cultural influence that is needed in every day life.
What sports team(s) do you root for? Montreal Canadiens, Pittsburgh Steelers.
Favorite late-night snack: I NEVER eat anything after dinner; that's one of the worst things a person can do!
What is your favorite way to spend your day off? I rarely get any days off with all of my jobs but when I do I'm usually with my wife Nana.
What is your most memorable musical experience? Way too many since 1977 but I remember all the fantastic concerts we've done and a few very humorous moments.
Biography
Brian Stotz was appointed Second Percussionist with the RPO in 2000, and has been a member of the Orchestra since 1977. A Rochester native, he was timpanist/percussionist for numerous Broadway musicals performed at the Auditorium Theatre for many years, and was a member of the Pangaia Steel Drum Band. He is also owner/operator of Repaircussions, one of the world's leading percussion instrument service businesses. He is a graduate of the Eastman School of Music where he studied with long-time RPO Timpanist John Beck.
