Johanna Gruskin

Piccolo, Principal

Supported by the Brandt Family

Johanna joined the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra as Principal Piccolo in 2022, having previously held positions with the New World Symphony (Miami Beach, Florida) and the Knoxville Symphony.

The piccolo has a reputation for being screechy and loud, but many of my favourite piccolo solos are lyrical and beautiful.

Johanna holds a Bachelor of Music degree from the Eastman School of Music, a Master of Music degree from New England Conservatory, and a Professional Studies Certificate from the Colburn School. Her primary mentors include Bonita Boyd, Elizabeth Rowe, and James Walker.

She has performed as a guest with the Chicago Symphony, Minnesota Orchestra, Milwaukee Symphony, Malaysian Philharmonic, Kansas City Symphony, Louisiana Philharmonic and San Antonio Symphony.

A two-time fellow at the Tanglewood Music Center, Johanna later returned as a featured performer of contemporary music with the New Fromm Players. As a member of the Midic Winds quintet, she earned a medal in the prestigious Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition.

What is one great thing about playing in the NZSO? The people! I love playing with my colleagues for wonderful audiences all across New Zealand.

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