Hometown:
Dallas, Texas
Education:
Eastman School of Music Bachelor of Music 2023
The Juilliard School Master of Music 2025
Bio:
Peter Davies has dedicated himself to exploring how music can speak to audiences on a personal level. An emerging orchestral musician, Peter has performed on the international stage in 11 countries and with great orchestras including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Minnesota Orchestra. His teachers have included Nathan Hughes, Richard Killmer, and Erin Hannigan. For next season, Peter will be joining the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra as Principal Oboe.
What inspired you to become a musician?
My philosophy about what a musician should be in performance and as a member of the community has been shaped so much by my studies with Erin Hannigan as a high school student. I will always be grateful for how she helped me to cultivate my artistic passions.
Name your favorite composers and/or pieces:
The Zelenka trio sonatas are personal favorites of mine. The harmonic richness and contrasting characters are unlike anything else on the oboe.
What is an interesting fact about you and/or your instrument?
I also play the Baroque Oboe, which is the ancestor of the current oboe with only two keys!
When taking a break from music-making, what is your favorite thing to do?
Fixing old watches. The oldest I’ve worked on is a pocket watch from 1895.
Why did you choose the NRO?
I am looking forward to collaborating with a great set of colleagues this summer. NRO draws musicians who, like me, are enthusiastic about orchestral performance with the rigorous programming, which makes it very exciting to me. I also appreciate the chance to cover a thorough repertoire list, helping to prepare me for a professional schedule. Last, but certainly not least, the beautiful location is sure to be inspiring, but also will push me as the altitude can be a challenge for wind instruments.