Cameron Roberts, Oboe

How old were you when you started playing your instrument?

“ I started playing the oboe when I was 11 during the summer before sixth grade. We had to choose three instruments that we wanted to try out before we were assigned one to make sure that it was the right fit for us. The oboe was my first choice instrument because I loved the tone of the sound and ever since then, I couldn’t put it down. ”

What do you enjoy most about playing with the BSO? 

“What I enjoy the most about performing with the BSO is the commitment to musicianship and artistry that every musician has for each performance. It is an honor to play with such great musicians under the Maestro Kirov’s baton.”

Besides the Bakersfield Symphony, what else do you do for a living? 

“I currently work in the Music Operations at USC Thornton School of Music while being an avid freelance/studio musician and music educator in the Los Angeles area. I have done studio sessions for some small films, including one that recently came out on SOMM TV called "The Whole Animal" while also teaching private lessons. Before moving to Los Angeles to pursue my Master of Music in Oboe Performance from USC Thornton School of Music, I completed my Bachelor of Music in Oboe Performance at the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami. While in South Florida, I performed with many groups such as the South Florida Wind Symphony and the Gulf Coast Symphony.”

What is one piece of advice you would give to an aspiring musician? 

“Some advice I would give to aspiring musicians is to find what makes you fall in love with a piece of music you may be performing and channel that into your performance. Figure out how you feel connected to the music. In doing that, you will always be true to yourself, and you will always have a voice. Moreover, you will always have something to say and share with your audience. ”

Fun Facts About Cameron

“I love to hike and immerse myself in nature”

“I love to paint.”