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James Compton looks more like a member of the Allman Brothers Band than a classical virtuoso. But you have to hear him play bassoon for only five seconds to know he’s one of the best wind players in the business. Compton, 48, has been principal bassoonist with the Omaha Symphony for the past 21 years. These are his five favorite things, on and off the stage:
1. Bassoon. Compton was still a high school student when he ordered this instrument from a maker in Wiesbaden, Germany. He received it just in time for graduation. “It’s like an old friend.”
2. Sailboat. This toy from Bequia, West Indies, reminds Compton of the ocean. “I love the Caribbean.”
3. Angel. The bassoonist received this porcelain statue from his mother. It now resides in the room of one of Compton’s two sons, Whit or Luke, depending who has the worse report card. “It’s the trophy of shame.” Sorry, mom.
4. Boston Red Sox hat and baseball glove signed by Joe Torre. “I love watching baseball with Luke.”
5. DVDs. Compton likes to watch sci-fi films with son Whit. “The campier the better.”
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