In Tune With... is a monthly interview series that introduces you to Louisville's artists by exploring their connection to classical music and to our city.
David Borman, conductor of The Louisville Chorus
1. What is your concert day routine?
Concert day always involves caffeine, typically Heine brothers. During the fall, it’s a pumpkin spice latte with oat milk, yum! If it’s an evening concert, I might wait until early afternoon for the caffeine. After that, I typically want to spend my hours leading up to the concert at the venue. Particularly when it’s a new space, or a stage I haven’t been on in a while, it’s important for me to find my way in, get prepared, make sure everything is set-up properly, etc. I find peace in being very early knowing that all of my music is in order and I have plenty of time to think through the upcoming concert. In the two hours or so before I am typically thinking through the pieces, the banter I might have with an audience between, and where I might eat afterwards!
2. Where is your favorite spot in Louisville or KY to hit up following a gig, concert, day of teaching, etc.?
The Old Louisville Tavern is my go-to after concerts. I’ve been going there after concerts for nearly 10 years now, and I can’t say enough about the vibes, atmosphere, and food! Second to that, and on a special occasion is River House, I’m a shucker for oysters.
3. What is your "desert island" piece?
Dvorak’s 9th Symphony is certainly my “desert island” piece. It was my early introduction to classical music and the first time I felt truly moved by a piece of music at a young age. I remember sitting in Comstock Hall and hearing the brass roar away under Maestro Kimcherie Lloyd, and I knew that I wanted something to do with what was happening on that stage.
4. Which musician/composer (living or dead) would you invite to a dinner party, and why?
It’s difficult to pick just one, but if I must, it would be Nadia Boulanger. She was a phenomenal conductor premiering works by Copland and Stravinsky, not to mention she taught some of the most incredible musicians of the 20th century like Quincy Jones, Philip Glass, and Aaron Copland. She clearly had the Midas touch for musicality. The stories she could tell would probably be enough for a year of dinner parties.
5. What/who are you listening to right now?
Elaine Hagenberg! I’ve heard her music for years, but recently the Louisville Chorus has programed her piece Measure Me Sky and it is just breathtaking. She’s one of those composers who just doesn’t write bad music.
6. What is your favorite hobby that has nothing to do with classical music?
I am a bit of a bourbon geek. I know— wildly rare in this area. I’ve got a decent collection built up, but there’s always one more to find!
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ps- catch David and The Louisville Chorus at their annual Valentine's Day Concert on February 13th!
Have someone you would like to recommend for In Tune With...? Send Laura an email at latkinson@lpm.org
