Philip Ross

Philip Ross grew up surrounded by world-class oboists. His father, Dan, is a well-known oboist and maker of gouging machines, which are high-precision cutting tools essential for reed-making. With at least one of Dan’s machines in every major North American orchestra, Jonesboro, Arkansas is a revolving door of oboists making their pilgrimage to have their machines serviced. Many of these famed oboists shaped Philip’s developing skills and understanding of the instrument by offering valuable insight.

Ross holds degrees from the Eastman School of Music and the Chicago College of Performing Arts where he studied with Richard Killmer and Alex Klein respectively.  He has made repeat appearances as guest principal oboe of the San Francisco Symphony, toured with the Chicago Symphony, and recorded with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestras. Ross has stepped out of his regular role of second oboe with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra on many occasions, including his solo debut with the orchestra in 2008, and serving two seasons as Acting Co-Principal Oboe. He also takes part in the St. Barts Music Festival.

Ross enjoys playing music with his wife and fellow oboist, Laura. He also enjoys fly-fishing and golfing as much as possible. The oboe couple welcomed their first child in April 2013. It will remain to be seen if their daughter will take up the oboe as well, but for now she seems to enjoy hearing Mom and Dad practice and make reeds together.