Tells us a little bit about how you joined the Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra. How long have you played with the Binghamton Philharmonic? 

I won an audition in 2016. 26 flutists auditioned. The judges were undecided between me and a much younger flutist so asked us both to return to do a trial with the orchestra. I was awarded the position after we both played our trials. 

What do you like about performing with the Binghamton Philharmonic?  

I love playing the great orchestral repertoire. I consider myself first and foremost an orchestral musician. I had a full time orchestral position for 8 years and currently perform with dozens of freelance orchestras in the NYC area. I also really enjoy playing with the first rate woodwind section in the Binghamton Philharmonic.

Share a favorite memory with the Binghamton Philharmonic.  

Winning the audition for Binghamton Philharmonic at age 55. I am truly grateful that my age was not held against me as it is in many sectors of the music industry especially for women.

"I always loved music. I have no memories of my parents listening to music, so when a woman who sang and played guitar played at my school in 3rd grade and another singer/guitarist sang (Puff the magic Dragon) while I was in the hospital at age 3, I was greatly impacted by their performances." -Karen Bogardus

What was your favorite (or one of your favorite) concerts to perform in with the Binghamton Philharmonic and why?  

The last concert I played in which I was a featured soloist playing a super fun piece by Gary Schocker followed by one of my favorite orchestral pieces, Beethoven's 4th Symphony. It was a very exciting and rewarding night for me.

Tell us the story of how you were first introduced to the instrument you play. What drew you to your instrument?  

I always loved music. I have no memories of my parents listening to music, so when a woman who sang and played guitar played at my school in 3rd grade and another singer/guitarist sang (Puff the magic Dragon) while I was in the hospital at age 3, I was greatly impacted by their performances. My mother says I was asking for a piano at a very early age. By the time I started flute I was already playing piano and guitar. I believe I was drawn to the flute because I played in the school band and really enjoyed being a part of a group

Who is your favorite composer and why?  

There are so many outstanding composers so I can not limit it to one, but I can say one of my favorite orchestral pieces is Berlioz's Symphonie Fantastic - that is a really fun piece to play and brings me a lot of joy.