Hometown:
Prairieville, Louisiana
Education:
University of Michigan, Bachelor of Music, 2023
University of Texas at Austin, Master of Music, 2025
Bio:
Nadia Para is an oboist based in Austin, Texas. She is a member of the Novus Reed Quintet who were semi-finalists in the Coltman Chamber Music Competition and recipients of the Gottleib Variations Award. She is currently getting her masters degree where she is studying with Andrew Parker at the University of Texas at Austin. She received her bachelors degree from the University of Michigan where she studied with Nancy Ambrose King.
What inspired you to become a musician?
In high school, I had the opportunity to perform in Carnegie Hall. It was such a magical experience, and I felt so lucky to be able to perform in such a prestigious venue with my closest friends.
Who are your all-time favorite composers and/or pieces? Why?
Recently I’ve been infatuated with the simple yet graceful music of the Baroque era. Some of my favorite pieces include: Handel’s The Triumph of Time and Truth (HWV 71) and JS Bach’s Ich habe genug (BWV 82).
What is an interesting fact about you and/or your instrument?
Oboist spend a great deal of our lives making reeds! Our reeds are made up of a species of cane called the Arundo Donax, which is similar to bamboo.
When taking a break from music-making, what is your favorite thing to do?
I love to go on walks with my dog Teddy.
Why did you choose the NRO?
I chose NRO because it’s a wonderful opportunity to play a large amount of orchestral repertoire.