Stephanie Key, clarinet, artistic director ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it )

I grew up in eastern Illinois. While even having made recordings on clarinet, I have displayed my passion (and talent!) for the okarina in a band and squeaky toy (yes, a real live rubber squeaky toy. I know its hard to believe. Lots of practice.) I would have to say I envy Adrian Jacobs bucket kicking talents in (Untitled) the movie - the tone, color, fluidity is something to behold!

When I'm not playing in San Antonio with SOLI or the Symphony, I’m traveling to Houston to play my other gig with the Houston Ballet, or in the summer to the Tetons. As a kid, I loved to ice skate. I also played soccer – breaking a friend’s leg was accidental rushing the ball! Seems like I have played lots of sports in past lives . . . used to ride a lot . . . in somewhat of a slump right now, but will get back, I promise! My huge passion is climbing. Came late to this and its tough because there are no climbing gymns in SA!, or great outdoor climbing spots here. I’ve been known to drive to Austin in desperation to get on their wall at the Austin Rock Gym for a fix. Gearing up for the Grand Traverse in the Tetons Summer 2010.

My favorite foods include seared foie gras (every twenty years!), a good start...a goat cheese tart and the heirloom tomato salad from Black Bear Tavern outside Tahoe City... David's sauteed spinach, mmmmm LOVE my mother's chocolate mousse! Wait, is dessert a food group? I also love wine...red wine...Bordeaux to be more exact. But then there's rosé...hmmmm.

I loved to watch Northern Exposure -- why did it go away?? I am also a MAJOR DOG PERSON, though some cats are okay...My family includes two dogs, both foundlings (they found us, that is): Sophie, the Entlebucher and Chara (pronounced 'CAR-ah') the Norwegian Elkhound. Super awesome hounds.