Andrew Pedersen joined the Houston Symphony Double Bass section in August 2017. A native of Batavia, Illinois, Andrew received his bachelor’s degree from DePaul University and master’s degree from Rice University, where he studied with Robert Kassinger and former Houston Symphony Principal Bass Timothy Pitts, respectively. Other mentors include Paul Ellison, Alexander Hanna and Gregory Sarchet.
While in Chicago, Andrew served as assistant principal bass of the Civic Orchestra (2012-14). During this time, he also worked closely with Yo-Yo Ma in both concerts and community outreach programs. Andrew has regularly subbed with the New World Symphony, including a recent tour to Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center. He has also attended the Aspen, Music Academy of the West and Verbier Festivals.
Outside of the orchestra, Andrew enjoys arranging music for bass ensembles and exploring the unique cuisine of Houston.
What performance are you most looking forward to this season?
I am extremely excited to perform Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3 under Maestro Orozco-Estrada in May. This masterpiece solidified my love for classical music when I was in high school, and I always look forward to playing it. Having the Maestro on the podium this time around will be even more thrilling, and I’m curious to see how he brings out the wide array of characters and moods in the symphony! Oh, and obviously Star Wars: A New Hope in March.
What inspired you to become a musician?
When I was very young, my brother and I were really into monsters, particularly the Universal Studios monsters and monster movies. Frankenstein, The Wolfman, Creature from the Black Lagoon, you name it. My mom would also constantly play the soundtrack to Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera in the car, so when I saw both the 1925 silent film and 1943 movie, I became obsessed with wanting to play the “organ”—aka piano. I started piano lessons at age 5 and bass with my school program when I was 10.
Is there a notable performance or event in your career that you’d like to share?
I had the fortunate opportunity to be a member of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago while I was in school. My first year was special because we collaborated with Yo-Yo Ma on a year-long concert project. This included multiple community concerts and outreach events centered on Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6, Pastoral. The season culminated in a conductor-less concert of Haydn’s Cello Concerto No. 1 in C major with Yo-Yo as soloist and Beethoven’s Sixth. I have never felt more connected to every single musician on stage, breathing as one organism. It was truly magical.
What hobbies and interests do you have outside of music?
In my free time, I enjoy checking out local barbecue and breweries. I also like to go bowling and love all things pug.
Andrew Pedersen is sponsored by Barbara J. Burger.
