Photograph by Michael Baddour

Tamara Hartfield Paige would rather say yes.

Tamara Hartfield Paige, who is the orchestra director and department co-chair at San Diego’s School of Creative and Performing Arts, has been called a multi-instrumentalist, but that seems like a serious understatement. Asked for a list, she says she plays “violin, viola, cello, string bass, trumpet, euphonium, a little trombone, and enough piano to warm up a choir. Although I’m playing more bass lately. I’m going to be taking some lessons from [local bassist] Rob Thorsen soon, and I’m excited about that.”

Ms. Paige is back at S.C.P.A. after posting up at Francis Parker and the Academy of Our Lady of Peace. She professes a connection to the Paradise Hills school, one felt even when she wasn’t actively teaching there. “It’s always felt like home. I was always coming back, and I even sent my son [saxophonist Alvin Paige, now a sophomore at Michigan State University]. That kept me coming back for concerts and I stayed in touch. Ultimately, I saw there was a need in the orchestra and it was the right time to come back.”

In addition to her off-campus work as an orchestral conductor and freelance musician, Paige keeps a busy schedule at S.C.P.A., teaching seven classes. She’s happily committed to her work as an educator. “I think the best part of the job is the connections you make with people from all types of different backgrounds. It’s those special moments, the big projects and collaborations, that keep me going, keep me motivated.”

There is one part of her job that she doesn’t enjoy. “Having to say ‘no’ occasionally. Not always being available for everybody at the moment they need me. I guess what I’m trying to say is that there is a very real possibility of burnout. It can be really demanding on your health. There are sacrifices that need to be made once August and September roll around.”