Name: John Evans

Instrument: Timpani

Hometown: Utica, OH

At what age did you begin playing your instrument? Piano (8), Percussion (10), Timpani (13).

Who have been your greatest musical influences? Alan Abel (percussionist, Philadelphia Orchestra), Cloyd Duff (timpanist, Cleveland Orchestra), Phil Shipley (percussionist, Columbus Symphony).

Who are your favorite composers? John Adams, Beethoven, Mahler.

What career path would you have taken had you not chosen music? Probably psychology, maybe engineering.

What's currently playing on your iPod or CD player? Pat Metheny Group, Ella Fitzgerald, Earth, Wind and Fire.

Your hobbies and interests: Collecting antique mechanical kitchen items, especially apple peelers.

Some little-known, yet interesting facts about you: I've been in all 48 of the continental states. I was an extra in a movie in the early '80s.

Daily practice rituals: At the moment, no rituals. Just make sure I'm prepared to play what's on the stand for the coming week.

The question you're asked most often about your instrument (and your answer): "You play pitches on those things?" My answer: "Yes."

Your favorite part about playing in the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra: Enjoying going to work. Not everyone can say that.