Hometown:
Downers Grove, Illinois
Education:
Northwestern University, Bachelor of Music (2024)
New England Conservatory, Master of Music (2026)
Bio:
Emma Krause is a flute and piccolo player from Downers Grove, IL. She recently received her Master of Music from New England Conservatory and earned her Bachelor of Music from Northwestern University. Her notable teachers include Cindy Meyers, John Thorne, Jennifer Gunn, and Alyce Johnson. In 2025, Emma was the US finalist in the Kujala International Piccolo Competition. Emma is a passionate educator and teaches private flute lessons and early childhood music classes.
What inspired you to become a musician?
My parents often brought my siblings and me to orchestra concerts when we were young, and I always loved the concerts! My mom played the flute in high school and still had her flute at home, so once I got older, I started trying to play it. Once I got to fifth grade, I got a flute of my own and started learning it at school!
Name your favorite composers and/or pieces:
My all-time favorite composers are Ravel and Shostakovich. Ravel’s colors and orchestration are so captivating, making his pieces endlessly exciting to play and listen to. Shostakovich’s music is profound and relevant to today.
What is an interesting fact about you and/or your instrument?
My first “instrument” was the boxtar! It was a homemade instrument made of a box, a piece of wood, and a single string!
When taking a break from music-making, what is your favorite thing to do?
My favorite thing to do when I’m not making music is make crafts. I love to crochet, watercolor paint, and more.
Why did you choose the NRO?
I chose NRO because every year, NRO programs repertoire that I not only enjoy, but will be playing for my entire career. There is no replacing the experience of playing this music in the full orchestra, and I think it is such a valuable opportunity for my orchestral experience. I am extremely grateful and excited to have the chance to play this amazing music this summer with a full orchestra of talented peers and conductors!