Written by Sandy Farrell, AZ Phil Event Coordinator and Board Member

Mason grew up in Arizona and during high school joined the Chandler Symphony. That, and several other community orchestra experiences, pushed him to consider a musical profession. He studied at the University of Arizona, playing in the school orchestra. After the pandemic he won principal viola with West Valley Symphony. Now, as a student at Arizona State University, he plays in ASU’s symphony.

The October 6 program includes Fanny Mendelssohn’s Piano Trio in D Minor, Op.11, Herbert Howells’ Piano Quartet in A Minor, Op. 21, and Johannes Brahms Piano Trio in B Major, Op 8.

“The Howells piece is especially exciting” Mason said. “It has such beautiful, rich musical lines and I love the dark and expressive qualities. There are so many beautiful oscillating and undulating lines under the melody and they have such great character.”

Mason hasn’t played before with Steinway Artist James D’León, but he’s excited to learn how James “feels the music,” and to be part of the ensemble in this concert. “I think my own playing will be so elevated by this opportunity.”

After graduating from ASU in 2025, Mason will consider several schools where he would continue his education in viola performance, including Northwestern and Rice Universities. “I can’t imagine my life if all this happens but I know I would join a regional orchestra and teach.” If Mason ends up at Northwestern in Chicago, he would pursue an audition for an orchestra job with Chicago Civic Orchestra.

How does Mason feel about playing without a conductor? “Without a conductor, it is totally about feeling each other’s energy and connecting the sounds. There is so much personal interaction that goes into it and it’s such a great feeling locking in.”

Mason Haskett is excited to start his second season with Arizona Philharmonic. He is currently in his final year at Arizona State University working toward his undergraduate degree and is also a recipient of the Richard and Marilyn Wurzburger String Award. This past summer, Mason attended the 2024 Opera in the Ozarks festival in Arkansas, where he discovered a new and deep love for playing opera music.

A passionate chamber musician, Mason values live performance and the personal connections with fellow musicians and audiences that make music truly worthwhile. Mason looks forward to a season of engaging performances and meaningful interactions with listeners.