Red Pastorek

Red Pastorek, double bass, was born in Chicago, IL where he began his musical career as a percussionist. He switched to double bass in high school and continued his studies at DePaul University in Chicago. As a college student, he was selected to be a member of the Chicago Civic Orchestra, a training branch of the Chicago Symphony. Prior to coming to Houston in 1964, Mr. Pastorek served for three seasons as principal bass of the Florida Symphony in Orlando, FL. In addition to his symphony duties, Mr. Pastorek has been active as a teacher of area preparatory students. In his spare time, he enjoys sailing, mountain climbing, golf and cooking. He is a collector and restorer of antique toy trains.



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When did you join the Houston Symphony?
September 1964. I am the oldest and longest-tenured member of the orchestra.

What are your hobbies?
For 30 years I raced and cruised sailboats on Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. I enjoy collecting and restoring antique American Flyer trains. Cooking and traveling are other favorite pastimes. Chris and I have enjoyed recent trips to France, Sweden and Russia, and we are making plans to visit Poland and Hungary soon.