LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Nick Biondo has been playing the clarinet for more than 50 years and as one of the charter members of the Lake County Symphony, he joins just two other musicians – Andi Skelton and Gary Miller – who have been there since the Symphony’s start in 1978.

“It was a smaller group of musicians back then and we had fewer rehearsals,” said Biondo, who also plays with the Ukiah Symphony and Symphony of the Redwoods, as well as the Lake Winds Quintet. “Many of us who play music locally are like family. Andi has done so much to keep things going-she is the librarian and the personnel manager, as well as concertmaster. Gary and I go way back, performing together in various jazz bands, musicals, symphonies, and with the Funky Dozen Band.”

Biondo was a music educator for 30 years, the last 18 of those in Lakeport, working for the school district, grades fifth through 12th.

“I was the band and choir director, jazz band director and also had recording technology classes at Clear Lake High School. There was a wonderful rapport with the students. I still perform and socialize with several,” he said.

Biondo met his wife Mary, when they both lived in the same Kelseyville housing development back in 1980.

“Mary is a vocalist (think Mozart’s Requiem) who sings with the Mendocino College Chorale and has recently performed with the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir,” said Biondo. “Every once in a while, we get to do a concert together.”

Biondo, who grew up in New York, headed west with family and attended San Jose State University before moving to Lake County.

“I love it here,” said the easygoing musician. “It’s a wonderful rural environment and a beautiful place to live.”

The lake also fits in nicely with his other favorite activities, boating and water skiing.

Since retiring from the school district in 2007, Biondo stays busy as a member of the Funky Dozen Band, in addition to his symphony performances.

He also finds time to handle the sound system at the Soper Reese Theatre, working as the sound engineer since the installation of the new system 10 years ago.

“I have had a rewarding experience playing music and working with youth over the years, a true blessing” said Biondo.

What advice does he offer younger musicians? “I tell them they may need to get a day job if they want wealth in life. But it’s not always about the money. It’s about following your passions and loving what you do, whatever it may be.”