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Busiest cellist in town: Bjorn Ranheim on everything from composer John Adams to fatherhood

Bjorn Ranheim
St. Louis Symphony

Cellist Bjorn Ranheim’s busy schedule rarely allows time for rest. If he’s not rehearsing or performing with the St. Louis Symphony, then you may find him with his colleagues in The 442s or playing chamber music in any of several ensembles. But one of his favorite roles is that of father to two beautiful little girls.

In a conversation with St. Louis Symphony Vice President of External Affairs Adam Crane, Ranheim talks about this weekend’s concerts highlighted by performances of John Adams’ Violin Concerto featuring Leila Josefowicz.

He weighs in on why John Adams has selected the St. Louis Symphony to record his works, what it’s like to have the composer present at the rehearsal of his work, his admiration for Josefowicz and how he makes the transition from John Adams to Beethoven. The cellist also describes The 442s and why he enjoys playing in the ensemble so much.

Ranheim concludes with this comment on his full life, “It feels like I’m always off doing something or rehearsing. It’s tiring but it’s so rewarding and I love my family life.”

Mary Edwards is a producer for St. Louis Public Radio's broadcast program, "St. Louis Symphony."