Scott Metlicka, Flute
When did you begin to play your instrument?
I started playing piano in first grade and began playing flute when the band program kicked in, in fifth grade.
Where did you study your main instrument; with whom?
Mary Louise Poor was my first flute teacher in Aurora, IL. I did my undergraduate at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb and studied with Peter Middleton. Walfrid Kujala was my teacher at Northwestern University, where I did my Master’s degree. I also studied with Mary Stolper in my twenties.
When did you join ESO?
In 1998.
What other orchestras have you played with/do you play with now?
In addition to Elgin, I have contracts with three other orchestras: Principal Flute – Rockford Symphony and Wisconsin Philharmonic; Piccolo – South Bend Symphony. I also play with Chicago Opera Theater and sub with the Grant Park Symphony.
What was your most memorable ESO performance?
Debbie Reynolds sang a Pops concert with us in 2003 on short notice when Doc Severinson cancelled on short notice.
What are some of your interests, and how are you passing the time?
My great-grandparents bought a cabin in Crandon, WI in 1938 and I became half-owner with my Dad in 2018. As I write this, I’m up at the cabin doing some work. I removed the old carpeting to reveal beautiful hardwood floors! In late August I began a new job as the flute professor at Northern Illinois University. I am very grateful to have this position at my alma mater.
