Music, and guitar in particular, cultivates an aesthetic sense in a young person that I believe makes for a better world.
– Siri Hutcheson
Siri Hutcheson and Camille Cook have been generous supporters of our work in both concerts and education at Austin Classical Guitar, and they give to other important causes in our community as well.
They are sponsors of our concert featuring Xuefei Yang this Saturday, April 26th, and so I asked Siri a few questions about her relationship to music and the guitar. She’s quite a talented musician herself!
Matthew Hinsley: Siri, you and Camille have been generous supporters of our work here at Austin Classical Guitar. What do you like about the work we do?
Siri Hutcheson: First, I love the house concerts. It’s so wonderful to hear mini concerts and to meet other guitar enthusiasts in interesting settings. Second, the work you do with children & teens heartens me for the future of creativity. Music, and guitar in particular, cultivates an aesthetic sense in a young person that I believe makes for a better world. I like that Austin Classical Guitar reaches out to those of diverse backgrounds. Third, I think the leadership is fantastic!
MH: You are an accomplished guitarist, if I may say so. What is it about guitar, about classical guitar, that you find gratifying?
SH: I find the expression, intellectual stimulation, self-discipline, musical accomplishment and personal growth very gratifying. What’s not to love…making music with a beautiful instrument!
MH: You and Camille give to other great causes here in Austin. Is there another cause you wish everyone knew about?
SH: Camille and I believe strongly in human rights. We give to Human Rights Campaign. GLBT individuals have been regarded as second-class citizens for too long. The pursuit of happiness is part of the American dream. We also love dogs and cats. We give to Austin Pets Alive in Austin and WAG in nearby Wimberley.
MH: Is there anything else you’d like to add?
SH: I want to recommend that everyone learn to play guitar or a musical instrument of his or her choice. Put a little time in on a regular basis and as a result you will create a pastime that will serve as your friend for life.
Here is Siri (left) with Camille on horses near Aspen, Colorado.
And this great photo is just before one of our FlamencoAustin shows at the Long Center!
