About me
Portland, Oregon based bassoonist Nik Hooks has established himself as a versatile performer and educator whose career spans orchestral performance, chamber music, and teaching artistry. Praised for his artistry and musical versatility, he has appeared with leading ensembles throughout the United States and abroad.
Most recently, Nik served as Acting Principal Contrabassoon and Section Bassoon with the Auckland Philharmonia during part of the 2026 season. Previously he held positions such as Acting Principal and Acting Associate Principal Bassoon with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, Principal Bassoon of the Glens Falls Symphony Orchestra and Principal Bassoon of the Billings Symphony Orchestra. Additionally he has performed with the Oregon Symphony, The Knights, Princeton Symphony Orchestra, NOVUS NY, and the American Symphony Orchestra. As an avid chamber musician, Nik has collaborated with organizations including Chameleon Arts Ensemble, the Philadelphia Chamber Music Society, Spectrum Chamber Music Society, the Oregon Bach Festival, and the Fort Worth Symphony Chamber Series.
An equally committed educator, Nik Hooks has devoted his career to connecting with students and audiences through meaningful musical experiences. He serves on the faculty of the Manhattan School of Music Summer Program and was a part of Carnegie Hall’s 2020-2023 Ensemble Connect fellowship class, where he designed and presented educational performances, taught weekly win NYC public schools, and developed programming for diverse communities. His additional teaching experience includes the Colburn Conservatory and a private studio that he has maintained since 2016.
Nik holds a Professional Studies Certificate from The Colburn School and a Bachelor of Music degree from the New England Conservatory. His principal teachers include Richards Beene, Svoboda, Ranti, with additional studies from Gina Cuffari, Judy Leclair, and Tom Novak.
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