Horn
Nick Auer is a New York–based horn player with an active career across Broadway and leading orchestras. He has held horn chairs in Queen of Versailles and Death Becomes Her, and performs regularly as a substitute on productions including Moulin Rouge, The Great Gatsby, and Titanique. Auer has appeared with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Boston Pops, and Atlanta Symphony, and serves as Principal Horn of the Boston Festival Orchestra. A frequent finalist in major auditions, he trained at the New England Conservatory. His playing is noted for its versatility, precision, and rich orchestral color.
Meet Nick
What drew you to your instrument of choice?
When I started band at around age twelve, I was placed on trumpet, but I noticed there was only one student playing horn by himself. I asked my teacher if I could switch to French horn so he would not be alone. We ended up becoming good friends throughout middle school, and that experience made the instrument feel meaningful to me from the very beginning.
What is your secret to balancing hard work and discipline while keeping your passion alive?
I try to find the music in everything I play. I ask myself where I can shape a phrase, what the music needs from me, and how my part supports the larger musical goal. Staying focused on those questions keeps me engaged and passionate about the work.
How does being a musician shape the way you see the world?
Music helps you step outside of yourself. It is a fully collaborative effort where success depends on the group rather than the individual. At a time when people can be very self focused, music offers the opposite perspective. It encourages connection, awareness, and a deeper consideration of those around you.