Kris and Bobbie - The Dynamic Duo of Backstage Hospitality 

Kris Parsons and Bobbi Bollinger have been leading the backstage hospitality volunteers for more than three years. They know their stuff. “We want musicians to have a welcoming experience when they perform with AZ Phil, and backstage is part of the experience. Some may travel long distances and we aim to make them feel comfortable and taken care of, and to share with other musicians so that they will enjoy it, too,” Bobbie said.

What Happens Backstage
The backstage volunteers are the first face of AZ Phil for musicians, they take care of snacks, water, answering questions, and sometimes the entire set up, because scheduling might need the rehearsal room to be broken down before AZ Phil musicians return. Bobbie and Kris come early to arrange hospitality tables with care, and stay late to clean up and secure the room—all with a smile. “We enjoy getting to know the musicians as they return throughout the seasons,” Bobbie said.

Bobbie says that after three years working together, she and Kris can finish one another’s sentences. Watching them at rehearsals, you can see they not only know what they are doing, but they enjoy it. Kris says providing musician hospitality has been quite enjoyable, "We like getting to know musicians and hearing the concert grow from rehearsal level to performance," commented Kris.

Kris and Bobbie are always up for making new friends, if you would like to bring your smile to AZ Phil's backstage, they would love to meet you. Feel free to click here and tell us Kris and Bobbie sent you.

Enjoying the Freedom of Freelance
Laura acknowledges “freelance” is often seen as a dirty word but she says it is a good fit for her. “I encourage students to consider freelance work because you have autonomy and freedom. The financial end of it is a consideration, but it matches my lifestyle. I may feel differently in five years but I’m super happy with the path I’m own.”

“Some months I am busier in one category more than another and I like different schedules. I teach privately, play for recording sessions, perform guest recitals, pick up groups and play at churches.” In addition to working with AZ Phil she plays with Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra and subs with Los Angeles Philharmonic. She enjoys working with the Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (YOLA) inspired by El Sistema, which provides music education in under-served communities.

How She Got Here
Laura began playing piano at six and through middle school switched from clarinet to flute and then added oboe.  “I’ve always been inclined towards music.”

Laura attended ASU for undergraduate and masters degrees and applauds music instructor Martin Schuring as an amazing all around teacher.  “He set me up with everything I needed to succeed, his fundamental instruction covered all the basics.”

She spent four years earning her doctorate at USC and along the way became established in the Los Angeles music community. The doctorate qualified Laura to teach college but she loves the variety freelance opportunities offer. 

Laura was Acting Principle Oboist and then appointed by the board of directors to first chair. She played Marcello Oboe Concerto in her first concerto with AZ Phil in 2021.

Laura says playing with AZ Phil is different than other orchestras because, "it’s about consideration. There’s much more hospitality with little things like snacks and water. I always feel welcomed. It’s helpful because it’s recognition that we may need sustenance and they are saving us a $10 meal. Plus, I love working with Peter Bay, Joshua Harper and the whole AZ Phil family." 

If you've had the joy of hearing Laura play, you know what a priceless gift she has, and we are thankful she shares it with Prescott.

We invite you to come to one of our monthly Volunteer Introduction meetings.

Upcoming Behind the Podium Newsletters will include:

• Musician Interviews
• News updates