Sam Fischer | 2018/19 Opera Santa Barbara Concertmaster
Opera Santa Barbara is celebrating 25 years! Over the course of the 2018/19 season, we will be profiling musicians, artists, board members, and staff both past and current who have brought a quarter-century of thrilling opera to Santa Barbara. We begin the series with concertmaster, Sam Fischer.
I Am #OperaSB
Name: Sam Fischer
Instrument: Violin – Concertmaster
How many operas have you played in?
7 with OSB, around 20 total
How did you first get involved with OSB?
I was brought in as guest concertmaster for the 15/16 season, and was officially offered the position prior to the 17/18 season.
What do you like about playing operatic music?
For me, there’s nothing more beautiful than the sound of the human voice with orchestra. I love how the orchestra embodies the drama that is unfolding on stage. And I enjoy being part of a big, creative production, especially when I walk backstage amongst the cast in their costumes and makeup.
Memorable moments with OSB:
Performing Janacek’s Cunning Little Vixen was a highlight for me. I was exposed to incredible music that is very challenging for an orchestra, and I felt really proud of our performances.
Favorite opera and why?
Mozart’s Don Giovanni. There is so much variety and intensity, with one sublime aria after another. And it was my first opera with OSB.
“It is always such a pleasure to work with Maestro Protopapas and the outstanding singers and instrumentalists of Opera Santa Barbara. Whenever we come together, I feel incredibly lucky to do this for a living!”