Our featured musician for September 2026 is Yvonne Myers, who plays string bass. She has played with FCWS for 10 years — for several years ago on and off, and recently has returned and has been consistently playing with us for the past two -and-a-half years. Yvonne also plays in several other local groups (orchestra and a small ensemble) and is a testament to the versatility of her instrument!
What does music-making mean to me personally and why do I keep coming back to the ensemble?
I am so enthralled with two components of music-making. I enjoy playing with other people. Working together on a piece of music to ensure we are playing it well and executing together at a high level. The composer gave their musical gift to us to perform at the best of our ability.
The second component is to share music with others. I enjoy bringing live music to people. Challenging their ideas about music, enjoying the classics with clapping or singing along, or sharing the joy I have in playing for them.
I keep coming back to FCWS because the musicians are so friendly, committed to their craft and FCWS, and perform at a very high level.
What do you do outside of FCWS – professionally or musically – how does it connect to your life as a musician?
I work at the Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce as the chief operating officer. I have been there for almost five years. Prior, I worked at Columbine Health Systems for 31 years. Both of these careers connect me to so many people in our community. I always share that I play the string bass and where I play to encourage them to attend concerts. I want to play for them!
What does FCWS give to you as a musician, and what do you think it gives to the Fort Collins Community?
FCWS keeps me on my musical toes. Dr. Phillips is a fantastic conductor. She is a great partner explaining what she expects, conducts consistently, and absolutely challenges us to be better than we think we can be. She is also very fun to work with. A great combination of high expectations and a community of friends to make music with.
Attending a FCWS concert provides the community with high level band music, a musical director and musicians who care deeply, and a musical experience they would not have otherwise, all within a price everyone can afford: no cost! Thank you to our sponsors, donors, and musicians for giving the community the gift of FCWS!
What is a moment in your musical life – a performance, a teacher, a piece – that really shaped who you are as a musician?
In middle school I performed Fur Elise by Ludwig Van Beethoven in the annual school music competition. The competition was held on the stage at Longmont High School. The judge sat in the middle of the auditorium and it was only he and I. Luckily, my piano teacher had taken me to the hall to practice on the piano the night before. I was so nervous! After I performed from memory, the judge gave me feedback. He told me he had never heard Fur Elise played so well and that he had no feedback to give me. I received a 1+. He ended his feedback by telling me that I had made his day. That day, I learned that my hard work, commitment, and love of music could bring joy to others.