In Friday’s (11/9) Lexington Herald-Leader (Kentucky), Rich Copley writes, “During his 21 years in Lexington, University of Kentucky associate cello professor Benjamin Karp has become one of Lexington’s most recognizable musicians through his fluid playing style and a distinctive shock of curly hair. But until now, he hasn’t been a regular presence in the city’s leading arts group, the Lexington Philharmonic Orchestra. Most of his orchestral work has been 80 miles up Interstate 75, as principal cello for the Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra, a post he left 10 years ago, and with regular work with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. … Over the years, Karp has played as a soloist with the Philharmonic and occasionally as a substitute. But audiences are about to get to know him a lot better this week as he debuts as the Philharmonic’s principal cellist. He is one of nine new members of the orchestra and four new principal players. The longtime holder of that seat, Suanne Blair, is retiring after three decades. … Karp says he plans to continue doing some work in Cincinnati. But overall, he is looking forward to a life of less driving and more time with his wife, as they can go to rehearsal together. ‘I’m looking forward to being seen on stage locally,’ Karp says.”
Posted November 9, 2012
