Rhonda Gowen first picked up a clarinet when she was in fourth grade. She hasn’t stopped playing since.

“I just love the clarinet. It’s a really melodic instrument that I think sounds like a human voice,” says Rhonda.

Rhonda also plays the piano and teaches piano at the University of Mary. She says she loves all music, especially playing music with a group. She has been involved in orchestra since she was a college student at the University of Minnesota. She also played in the Minot Symphony Orchestra. When she moved to Bismarck, she immediately became involved with the Bismarck-Mandan Symphony Orchestra and later the Missouri Valley Chamber Orchestra. She is currently executive director of the Missouri Valley Chamber Orchestra, and this month, Rhonda will be the featured clarinetist at the Bismarck-Mandan Symphony Orchestra’s opening concert. She encourages everyone to come to the concert.

“It’s a chance to see your fellow community members, friends, and neighbors and enjoy some great music. I think the music we’re playing is energetic and speaks to everyone.”

Click here to learn more about the Bismarck-Mandan Symphony Orchestra’s concert. You can purchase tickets for the September 15 concert, featuring Rhonda, as well as see other upcoming concerts at that website.