Carla Ecker, concert violinist, and I sat down in Ashland, Oregon, for a delightful in-person conversation. She has performed with renowned orchestras, including the Sarasota Opera Orchestra, New Mexico Symphony Orchestra, Santa Fe Pro Musica, Charleston Symphony Orchestra, Pacific Symphony, El Paso Symphony, and the Phoenix Symphony. Currently residing in Tucson, Carla maintains an active performance schedule across the U.S. and has served as the Concertmaster of the Rogue Valley Symphony for the past eight years.

During our conversation, we explore the definition of a Concertmaster and delve into this fascinating and vital role within an orchestra. Carla shares her experience working with Martin Majkut, Music Director of the Rogue Valley Symphony and a friend of the podcast. She explains how the collaboration between the Conductor and Concertmaster is essential for creating an efficient and effective orchestral environment—one that, when successful, elevates the music to extraordinary levels.

Carla’s natural grace and leadership make her a perfect fit for the role of Concertmaster. We also discuss the challenges she has faced and overcome in her life, as she has continually sought opportunities and refused to let struggles define her. Her perspective on how music can unite us, even during times of deep division, offers a hopeful and uplifting message for citizens of both the United States and the world.