Hometown:
Louisville, Kentucky
Education:
Cleveland Institute of Music, Bachelor of Music (2024)
San Francisco Conservatory of Music, Master of Music (2026)
Bio:
Asher Blackburn has just completed his master’s degree at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music under Simon James and previously attended the Cleveland Institute of Music under Olga Kaler. He currently plays with Symphony San Jose and was a member of the Canton Symphony from 2022 to 2024. He has attended Aspen Music Festival and School, Sarasota Music Festival, Bowdoin International Music Festival, Roundtop Music Festival, among others.
What inspired you to become a musician?
The original decision was just on a whim when I was young, but what kept me in this long was the people and relationships I’ve accumulated along the way.
Name your favorite composers and/or pieces:
I always love the three B’s: Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms
What is an interesting fact about you and/or your instrument?
I have two cats, JoJo and ChiChi. I’ve always loved cats and I grew up with a cat.
When taking a break from music-making, what is your favorite thing to do?
I enjoy golfing, hiking, and playing video games.
Why did you choose the NRO?
I chose the NRO due to many factors. I feel like I am entering a transitional period of my life being a graduate student and trying to become a professional musician. The NRO provides an opportunity to connect with other fellows who are in the same period of their life and with musicians and conductors who are cemented professionals. Through this, the collective can come together and not only further themselves but work towards a common goal of creating music and furthering our community.