John Merrill, Violin

photo by Christian Colberg

When not rehearsing or performing on stage with the BSO, I spend my time… teaching, sailing, reading, watching PBS, spending time with family, doing house and yard work.

If I had not become a professional musician, I would have become a… doctor.

I don’t listen to music to unwind. I read.

In the car, I listen to… classical music or NPR.

My current ring tone is… an old fashioned ringer.

The last book I read was… Two Lives by Vikram Seth.

Most people would be surprised to learn that… I was a pre-med student during the first two years of college.

One dream that I have is… to be a competent sailor.  I am making progress.

The non-musical accomplishment that I am most proud of is my… participation in the last contract talks, which as well as negotiating a contract, revealed to all the many problems within our organization and contributed to their solution.

My favorite vacation spot is… the Cushings Island in Maine.

The last movie I saw was… Other Lives.

To prepare for a performance I… practice, practice, practice!!!

If I could choose another instrument, it would be the… cello.

What was your most embarrassing musical moment?  I’m not telling.