Carolyn Kirby has been RCB Principal French horn since 1985 and Band President since 2008. She received her B.A. in Music from Jacksonville University in Jacksonville, Florida where she was a member of the Jacksonville University band and orchestra and the Jacksonville Symphony.
The Early Years: Carolyn, who grew up in Ramsey, did not choose her instrument; it chose her. She started playing trumpet in elementary school. In high school she was asked to make the switch to French horn. She switched and never looked back
Career Highlights: After graduating college, Carolyn returned to New Jersey and, for the next 31 years, taught instrumental music grades 4-8 in the Paterson Public Schools where, in 2002, her peers elected her teacher of the year. She has played French horn the Wayne Chamber Orchestra, North Jersey Philharmonic, Cathedral Orchestra, Bergen Philharmonic, Ridgewood Symphony Orchestra, Adelphi Orchestra, several brass and woodwind quintets, church music groups, and other groups. She enjoys playing horn quartets with the other horn players in RCB. She also gives private lessons and enjoys working with students individually.
Instrument and practice routine: Carolyn does not have a set warm up or practice routine. She usually practices the music for upcoming performances and then plays etudes and studies. Her instrument is a Schmitt triple horn, which she likes because it has a rich sound and is relatively light.
Benefits of Playing with RCB: Carolyn said, “Playing in RCB is rewarding because we play a varied repetoire of challenging music. The band is composed of an exceptionally nice group of dedicated people which makes it a good place to play. For the most part, everyone is serious about making good music.”
Other interests: Spending time on the water in Rhode Island, walking in various parks with husband Paul and dog Blake, reading, and spending time with family and friends.