Name: Andrew Snedeker

Instrument: Oboe/English horn

Hometown: Born in Connecticut, lived in El Paso, Buffalo and Grand Rapids, MI

At what age did you begin playing your instrument? 9

Who have been your greatest musical influences? Teachers Florence Sullivan, Dr. Galan Kral, William Baker and Robert Sorton.

Who are your favorite composers? Hard to choose – I love them all.

What career path would you have taken had you not chosen music? I honestly don't know. Possibly a teacher.

What's currently playing on your iPod or CD player? Chopin Nocturnes, trumpet duets. When my kids have control, it's Switchfoot, or some other rock band. I occasionally get to listen to 90.1 WGCU.

Your hobbies and interests: Tennis, golf, swimming, boating, outdoor things.

Some little-known, yet interesting facts about you: I"ve done karaoke … and enjoyed it!

Funniest concert moment: An over-enthusiastic patron, in his exuberance, kissed the conductor. Besides that, the real funny moments are in the rehearsals … stage catching on fire, chicken feathers, shark fins, etc.

Daily practice rituals: Scales, long tones, reeds … more reeds … more reeds.

The question you're asked most often about your instrument (and your answer): "What is that?" Answer: "It's an oboe… "

Your favorite part about playing in the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra: Being part of so many individuals coming perfectly together to create an incredible whole. That is an amazing experience.