Anthony Anurca, Associate Principal
B.M. University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music

Member of the Orchestra Since 2009

A Florida boy at heart, Anthony Anurca comes from Jacksonville Beach, Flo. Born on the same day that MTV first aired its debut video, Video Killed the Radio Star, music has been a part of his life from day one. His first instrument was the piano at the age of seven. Next was a brief stint at the violin at eight. Then came the dream to sing at age nine and finally, through the magic of video, he saw his first bassoon at the age of 12. It's mysterious shape and unique sound instantly caught his attention and 16 years later his hard work, dedication, and his love for music brought him to Kansas City to play with the Symphony. He went to Douglas Anderson School of the Arts in Jacksonville for high school graduating in the Top 10 of his class in 1999. Before going to college, Anurca had the opportunity to solo with the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra where he played Dathi from John William's bassoon concerto, The Five Sacred Trees. He then went to the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music to study with William Winstead where he received his B.M. and graduated cum laude in 2003. From 2004-2007, Anurca was a member of The New World Symphony America's Orchestra Academy of Miami Beach where he met many of his colleagues in the Kansas City Symphony. He made many friends and played with some of the best artists of our time including greats like Yo-Yo Ma, Thomas Hampson, and Michael Tilson Thomas. Through New World's intense guest artist program he had the opportunity to study with many of the worlds' top bassoonists including: David McGill, Richard Ranti, John Clouser, Michael Werba, Milan Turkovic, and contrabassoonists: Brad Buckley, and Steven Braunstein. During this time he also played in the summers at the Spoleto Music Festival and Aspen Music Festival where he studied with Nancy Goeres. n 2006, he was Alternate Finalist for the Fox-Gillet International Bassoon Competition. After his time with the New World Symphony, Anurca moved back to his home in Jacksonville Beach and for two years was in high demand with many orchestras in the Southeast Coast of the United States. These include the Jacksonville Symphony, The Savannah Philharmonic, The Charleston Symphony Orchestra, The Florida Philharmonic, The Southwest Florida Symphony, The Palm Beach Opera, and The Seraphic Fire and Firebird Chamber Orchestra in Miami Beach. Being here in Kansas City is like a dream come true for him. To be able to do what you love and make a great living at it is the best thing that has happened in his life.