Patrick Peterson is one of the leaders of the Arizona Cardinals.
Friday night in downtown Phoenix Peterson put those skills to work in a different capacity orchestrating the Phoenix Symphony in the National Anthem before their performance at Symphony Hall.
“I didn’t know the rhythm or the beat to be on,” Peterson said with a sheepish grin to the assembled media moments after leading 66 of the state’s most distinguished musicians. “But once the National Anthem got going I kind of got in the rhythm. It was fun.”
The five-time Pro Bowl cornerback, who already has two interceptions in three games this season, is the second Cardinal to step on stage. Legendary wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald was a guest conductor a few years ago. The opportunity was presented to Peterson by team president Michael Bidwill and one “Pat P.” happily accepted.
Peterson, who is heavily involved in the community, said Fitz gave him a few words of simple wisdom leading up to the event.
“He told me to just go out there and be me,” he carefully explained flashing a wide grin. “Because whatever I do, the [symphony] is going to continue to play…I guess that’s what made [the experience] peaceful for me because I didn’t want to screw them up.”
