Q&A with Retiring MinnOrch Bass Player Brian Liddle

After three decades as a member of the Minnesota Orchestra’s bass section, Brian Liddle is retiring following the concert on March 28, 2026. In this Q&A, Brian reflects on his favorite concert memories, the importance of family, his retirement plans and more. Please join us—and his bass section colleagues—in offering congratulations and happy retirement wishes!

As you look back on your career in the Minnesota Orchestra, what memories come to mind from around the start of your time here?

My first year with the Orchestra was also the first year that Eiji Oue was music director. I remember his name being on Wheaties boxes and billboards all over the city. The Orchestra played the National Anthem at the opening Vikings game, and it was a time of great excitement surrounding the Orchestra.

What have been some of your favorite performances, both at Orchestra Hall and on tour?

Some of my most memorable performances include performing with Peter Serkin, Alfred Brendel and André Watts. When my daughters were young, they especially loved the performances of Peter and the Wolf and Amahl and the Night Visitors. I remember a wonderful reception in Vienna during the Orchestra’s European tour with Eiji Oue and an exciting performance at the Proms with Osmo Vänskä. My favorite performances were always the ones where the Orchestra played the standard classical music repertoire.

What do you enjoy most about the Minnesota Orchestra’s bass section?

There is great camaraderie among the members of the bass section. We play as a cohesive ensemble at a very high level. I am thankful to have been a member of this outstanding section during my tenure with the Orchestra. We have enjoyed the support of John and Nancy Lindahl and are grateful for their commitment to the Orchestra and to our section.

Which composers do you think write best for the bass?

In my opinion, Brahms, whose father was a double bass player, and Beethoven have best utilized the double bass in their music. Their music has great playability and lays a solid foundation for the orchestra to sit upon.

Do you have plans so far for what to do in retirement?

I plan to spend more time with my lovely wife, beautiful daughters, and our dog, Frank. I hope to do some volunteer work to support our veterans.

Is there anything you’d like to say about our dedicated audiences?

The Minnesota Orchestra could not exist without an audience to attend and enjoy the music. The Orchestra often feeds off of the energy that the audience puts out and it is a joy to play for such an appreciative and loyal audience. When I first moved to Minnesota, I was impressed by how many people from a wide variety of careers attended the Orchestra.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I'm grateful to have worked for the Minnesota Orchestra these past 30 years. It enabled me to provide for my family and get to know many wonderful individuals. I’m often struck by the incredible individual talent assembled on our stage, which was especially evident in our recent performance of Bruckner’s Eighth Symphony. I also appreciate the efforts of Ken and Judy Dayton, Ron Lund, and John and Nancy Lindahl. Their tireless support and generous contributions are greatly appreciated, as they enabled the Orchestra to bring quality classical music to the Twin Cities and beyond.

Reflections from Brian's colleagues

Brian's Minnesota Orchestra bass section colleagues offered reflections and congratulations.

“Brian has an incredible ear, produces a huge sound and is an encyclopedia of music history, especially the [Eugene] Ormandy days of the Philadelphia Orchestra. He is also an incredibly loyal family man whose love for his wife, daughters and dogs go through everything he does. He welcomed me as the new guy in the section and was always a fun stand partner. Also, incredible snarky quips for various conductors—always fun to hear those.”

– Kyle Sanborn

“Brian, bravo on an incredible career, both here and before. May your retirement be joyful! I will miss your gorgeous, massive sound; your awareness of what’s important in life; your direct connection to the incredible legacy of great orchestral string playing from the past century; and I will particularly miss your impish sense of humor. Thank you for what you have taught me onstage and the ways you have supported me—despite my New Jersey origins. Thank you for years of sharing music with us. Congratulations to you, Brian!”

– Associate Principal Bass Kathryn Nettleman

“Brian came to us from Philadelphia where he had been a long-term contracted sub for the Philadelphia Orchestra. His big sound and accurate playing added greatly to our section right away. We were lucky he chose to live and raise his family here in Minnesota, and he will be sorely missed.”

– David Williamson

“Brian has been a key contributor to our mighty bass section for over 30 years. I don’t think I’ve ever heard a bigger fatter sound from a single bass—it’s a beautiful cushion of bass fundamental that we will miss. We will also miss his quick wit—he’s always ready with a one-liner that has us all laughing. Brian is always ready to share a story about family, food, music and his beloved dogs—he will be missed!!”

– Principal Bass Kristen Bruya