Where did you grow up? Portland, Maine

Where do you currently live? South Casco, Maine

What instrument do you play? Viola

Educational background: Deering High School in Portland class of 1967. Graduated from New England Conservatory of Music and done graduate studies at the University of Colorado in Bolder.

Personal Information (family, pets, kids, etc.): Married with two grown children

How did you get started in music? I started playing in the 4th grade at Longfellow School.

What non-PSO musical activities do you participate in? I teach strings in the nine elementary schools in Portland. I love entertaining, reading, boating, knitting, gardening, traveling, and spending time with family.

What’s your favorite PSO memory to date? Probably the time when we were “snowed” in and everyone stayed all night in city hall. I’ll never forget it because it was my birthday–in April!

Describe a typical day: Rise early, drive to Portland and teach. Sometimes I help struggling students after school. Practice. Go to a PSO rehearsal and go home.

What is the question you’re asked most often when you tell people you play with the PSO? How long have you been playing and do you get paid!

If you couldn’t be a musician, what would be your dream job? Personal shopper!

Any non-musical hobbies? Traveling, knitting, gardening, and reading

What is your favorite music? What are you currently listening to? I usually love whatever we are playing at the moment. I also enjoy ABBA, Terry Gibbs, and opera if the singers are good!

Who or what has been your greatest influence, musical or otherwise? My mother. She came from a rich musical background and passed the love of it to me.

Do you teach? If so, how can people get in touch with you? Yes, email steppa@portlandschools.org

What/where are your favorite eats in Portland? Walters