The Musicians
Eric Olson (Oboe)
Member of the JSO: Principal oboe since 1986
Hometown: Pennington, N.J.
Education: Northwestern University
Why the Oboe? My brother started playing the trumpet when I was eight years old. I started playing the recorder then, so a wind instrument only seemed natural. My mother helped me choose the oboe two years later.
Other instruments: Eric started piano at age four. “I dabble at the piano now, but not very well. I started private oboe lessons at age 13, and quit piano so I could concentrate on one instrument.”
Performance experience: In 2002, Eric performed as guest principal oboist for five weeks with the Baltimore Symphony, including a two-week tour of
Other ensembles: Occasional chamber music in town. “I also enjoy playing chamber music with my wife Ellen, although there is not a lot for oboe and viola, so we often have to improvise and adapt music written for other instruments.”
Festivals: Starting in summer 2007, Eric is principal oboist at the Peninsula Music Festival in
Family: Wife, Ellen is a violist with the JSO. Their daughter Gina, recently started piano lessons and is a Harry Potter fanatic.
Hobbies: Following sports teams (especially the Jaguars), fixing up our house/puttering, and taking short bicycle trips.