Aija Mattson-Jovel, Principal French Horn
How old were you when you started playing your instrument?
“I started playing my instrument in the 6th grade in my band class at school. ”
What is your favorite music to listen to?
“I love listening to so many different styles of music. I have a hard time picking a favorite and I love specific genres for different reasons. I like some pop music, r&b, country, classical, jazz, folk music, etc. I enjoy listening to artists such as Sara Bareilles, Beyonce, Emily King, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Punch Brothers, Metropole Orkest, and Ella Fitzegerald just to name a few. I am always wanting to listen to a variety of new music and I am open to listening to anything sent my way.”
Besides the Bakersfield Symphony, what else do you do for a living?
“I am a professional musician. I play french horn all over Southern California. I do a variety of different playing work. From playing in different orchestras (such as the Bakersfield Symphony as your principal horn), to chamber groups such as a brass quintet, or recording a score for a motion picture/ tv show/project in Los Angeles, my job is always keeping me on my toes and I love the variety. I also teach french horn students privately as well as through organizations such as YOLA and Harmony Project. I love my job so much. ”
What is one piece of advice you would give to an aspiring musician?
“I would say my advice is to always try to enjoy the process of becoming and building your career a musician. This to me means to enjoy and immerse yourself in the process of practicing, meeting new musicians, and the music itself. Every moment of your career and time as a musician can teach you so much about being present in the moment, to learn and to be patient with the process of it all. It's about the journey and not always just the destination. ”
What do you enjoy most about playing with the BSO?
“I really enjoy the musicians I get to play with in the BSO. It is nice to chat with the musicians on breaks and to make great music together. I also really enjoy getting to see smiling audience members and getting to interact with them. I truly look forward to next season.”
Fun Facts About Aija
“I am of Latvian descent and have participated in many Latvian song and dance festivals.”
“I love to take dance classes specifically hip hop but also other styles. Have trained in dance since I was very young.”
“I love cheese with a passion.”