Name: Marlena Chow

Instrument: Violin

Hometown: Lake Elmo, MN (eastern suburb of the Twin Cities)

At what age did you begin playing your instrument? 4

Who has been your greatest musical influence? Mary West, one of my violin teachers from Minneapolis. She was a kind, warm and lovely woman who recently passed away at the age of 97. She was an all-around amazing woman. Up until a few months before she passed away, she was still getting up early to go swimming at the Y and teaching 40 students per week.. She always taught with generosity and love, and she was the kind of teacher I aspire to be!

What career path would you have taken had you not chosen music? That's a tough one. I don't really know, but it sure is fun to think about the possibilities!

Your hobbies and interests: One of my greatest joys is teaching violin to young children. I teach using the Suzuki method and have students ages 3-13. It is so fun for me to watch them grow and progress from week to week, not only on violin but as human beings as well. I'm always so proud of my students! Also, I love hiking in the mountains of Santa Fe. And I have a dog named Gus. He is the sweetest dog and a great companion!

Some little-known, yet interesting facts about you: I am an only child. I am a foodie. Growing up, I had a dog named Fluffy.

The question you're asked most often about your instrument (and your answer): "Do you have a REAL job, I mean a full-time job?" Answer: "Playing in the Naples Philharmonic IS a full-time job!"

Your favorite part about playing in the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra: I feel very fortunate to be able to go to "work" and do what I love to do.