Don Rankin, principal tuba
Where did you grow up? New Jersey
What instruments do you play? Tuba, Cimbasso
What is your educational background? BA New England Conservatory
When did you start playing for the PSO?
1988(ish)
What non-PSO musical activities do you participate in? Principal Tuba- Boston Ballet, Boston Lyric Opera, Boston Philharmonic, Boston Landmarks Orchestra, Beacon Brass Quintet
Where did you grow up? Pompton Plains NJ
Where do you currently live? Medfield MA
Family: Michelle (wife); Christina – 20 & Grace – 17 (daughters)
Describe a typical day. Practice, Perform, Sell Real Estate, Cook Dinner
What is your favorite PSO memory to date? Spending time with my close friends in the PSO
Dana Russian, trumpet; Don Rankin, PSO principal tuba; John Elliot, PSO Education & Community Engagement Director; Don Davis, trombone on their way to engage the Peaks Island elementary students with music and storytelling via PSO’s Brass KinderKonzert:Going to the Zoo!
How did you get started in music? Marching Band in HS
What is the most frequently asked question when you tell someone that you play for the PSO? How did you get started on the tuba- see above.
If you couldn’t be a musician, what would be your dream job? Marine biologist
What is your favorite music? What are you currently listening to? Music of Frank Zappa & 4’33” by John Cage
What are your hobbies? Travel, cooking, reading, single malt scotch
What or who has been your greatest influence in life? My Family and my colleagues
What is your favorite thing about Maine? Cox’s Head- Phippsburg
What/where are your favorite places to eat in Portland? Uncle Billy’s Down East BBQ
Contact Don at: drankin@isellboston.com
