WHIPPANY, N.J. (Morris County) — For some musicians, a shared love of music has led to more than concerts and rehearsals. Over its 40-year history, the Hanover Wind Symphony has helped bring together multiple couples whose relationships grew alongside their involvement in the community wind band.
Among them are Michele and Phil Hughes of Whippany, who met in the mid-1990s while playing French horn and tuba, respectively, with the ensemble. The two began dating in 1995 and were married in 1997, with fellow symphony members performing at their wedding.
“He was so sweet and charming,” Michele Hughes said. “Over two years of dating, our mutual love of music took us on dates, including many concerts.”
Michele, a retired elementary band teacher, and Phil, a former IT manager and past president of the organization, continued their musical involvement while raising two daughters, both of whom pursued music through high school and college.
“I think people who have talent and a love of music will always want to express that,” Phil Hughes said. “Adult music groups, such as the HWS, allow musicians to build bonds of friendship while exploring new compositions and revisiting old favorites.”
Another couple, Karen and Russell Ford of Randolph, also met through the symphony after Russell joined the group in 1997. Though neither chose music as a profession, both continued performing while raising three children who are active in school and regional music ensembles.
“The HWS members consist of a group of people getting together who share a passion for playing music and performing concerts,” the Fords said. “Although we are all diverse, we have a love of playing music.”
Music director Matthew Paterno and his wife Christine, both longtime members of the symphony, also share a personal connection to the ensemble. While they first met in college, their relationship continued as they performed together with the group.
“So many people have met through the wind symphony,” Paterno said. “It’s a meeting place for people who love live music.”
Other couples who met through the ensemble include Carolyn and Dan Masi of Roxbury. Members of the Hanover Wind Symphony come from a range of professional backgrounds, including education, engineering, accounting and business, but share a commitment to volunteer performance and community engagement.
The Hanover Wind Symphony continues to present live wind band concerts and serve as a gathering place for musicians and audiences across Morris County. More information is available at www.hanoverwinds.org
