It’s ‘All About That Solo Bass’ with Starlight

The Starlight Symphony Orchestra was formed in 2002 and had their first concert in 2003. Since then the symphony has been made up musicians from Dripping Springs, Wimberley, San Marcos and the surrounding area.

This year’s performances will open with a program called “All About That Solo Bass.” The program is unusual in the fact that the featured instrument is the double bass. The featured musician is Andrew Rogers, who is unique as the musician is not only a bassist, but is also is a drummer in rock and roll band.

Rogers was about four when he became interested in music. His parents built instruments at Renaissance fairs up and down the East Coast. “I got to beat the drum for the parades.” Rogers said. He was interested in music and at an early age his father gave him good advice. “Every band needs a bass.” That is when he picked up the instrument.

The family moved to Austin when Rogers was in seventh grade, and he learned to play bass with an orchestra. At McCallum High School, his talent shined. He was named second in the All-State Symphony Orchestra and Texas UIL State Solo and Ensemble Outstanding Soloist in 2011.

Not only has he been in the Starlight Symphony, but he has been in other orchestras such as the Austin Civic Orchestra, he is the principal bassist for the University of Texas Wind Ensemble and Density512, a start-up orchestra that originated from UT students.

He also plays regularly with PrismATX Ensemble, UT Lab Orchestra, UT Wind Symphony, and others. “I want to know as much as I can and every aspect of it (music),” said Rogers.

Then there’s rock drummer at night. “I’ve been doing drums all my life and it’s just another outlet to play on. It can be intense going in between orchestra all day and then some gig at a bar.” His favorite rock bands? “Flaming Lips and the Police. Grew up with them as mom liked them. Stewart Copeland is my biggest influence.”

He does prefer his classical work though. In his spare time he watches Youtube videos on Master classes and “I’ve been watching a lot on cellos.” He hopes one day to teach on a university level or at a private school, “but I’m doing things here that are important (like Starlight Symphony).”

Saturday, October 13, 2018: Kyle The Starlight Symphony Orchestra opens the 2018-19 season with a concert featuring Andrew Rogers on double bass at 7:00 pm at the Hays CISD Performing Arts Center, 979 Kohler’s Crossing, in Kyle, TX.

Sunday, October 14, 2018: Wimberley First Baptist Church, 15951 Winters Mill Parkway, in Wimberley, TX.

Concerts are free and open to the public. www.starlightsymphony.org