Don Yungkurth has played his clarinet for more years than most of his fellow musicians in the Roberts Wesleyan Community Orchestra have lived. Because many in the orchestra are music students at the college, one would assume that means a few decades. However, that comparison refers to the community members. Yungkurth has been playing his clarinet for almost 59 years. Yungkurth spent his entire career at Kodak in research and development, mostly with graphic arts products. As with others who seek to express a love of music beyond their occupation, he found avenues to use his clarinet and flute. In the Rochester area, he played with several community orchestras for many years. Even when he was drafted in the Army in his younger days, Yungkurth managed to play with the post band. In 1996, the Webster resident discovered the RWCCO, tried it and found a good fit. Though it meant a round trip of 55 miles each Monday rehearsal night, he says he was drawn to the commitment that all the musicians had to the orchestra. Although the student members were required to attend, he was surprised how loyal the community members were and dedicated to the rehearsals. "The level of playing ability and quality and variety of the music performed also adds to my enjoyment. It's well worth the travel time," he said. Another reason for crossing the Genesee River to play with the RWCCO, he says, is "being challenged by the difficulty of the music which demands continual improvement." Yungkurth will be performing this week with some of those musicians who are much younger than his clarinet. Several ensembles of the RWCCO will present their annual Chamber Music Concert. The free concert featuring strings, winds, brass, and percussion will be held on Thursday, February 10 at 7:30 p.m. in Shewan Recital Hall on campus. |
