The end of the 2023/24 season marked 50 years with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra for Principal Flutist Jan Kocman. His passion for music began at eight years old after attending a Chicago Symphony concert with his father. At Indiana University, Jan decided to pursue a career in orchestral playing. He auditioned for the WSO in 1974, impressing then Music Director Piero Gamba with his ability to play solos from memory, showcasing his skill and training.