Andrew Fierova, Assistant/Utility Horn
Are you a native Charlottean?
No, I'm from Spartanburg, SC
What was your musical upbringing like?
I come from a musical family. My mom and dad both sing and play guitar, my sister plays piano, and my brother plays the guitar and trumpet. As a result, there was always music in the house. I started playing horn in the 6th grade in band and never stopped!
What drew you to your instrument?
The sound.
Do you teach?
Yes, I have a private studio and I also teach at Davidson College.
How were you inspired to be a professional musician?
I had a great role model in a past teacher of mine that embodied everything that I wanted to be. Through him I felt like there was an obvious path forward that led me to want to be a professional musician.
Outside of your work with the Charlotte Symphony, where else do you perform?
I perform at many local churches, but I also like to play/practice in the parking lots of some of the great local mountain bike trails in between laps!
Could you describe your job within the Symphony?
I am the Assistant/Utility Horn. When all the regular horn section members are playing I will usually sit next to the principal and play parts of the 1st horn music to help spell the principal when necessary. When a core member of the section is unable to play for personal or professional reasons, it is also my responsibility to fill in.
Can you describe what you’re thinking and feeling right before a concert starts?
I think about staying in the moment. The only thing I have control over is what I'm doing in each individual moment. If I can focus on being in the moment I will play well.
What are some of your non-musical interests or hobbies?
I love to mountain bike and cook BBQ. I own 3 different mountain bikes and two big smokers.
How do you give back to our community?
Teaching is the primary way I give back to the community but I also play with the 10AM volunteer choir at St. Michael's Catholic Church frequently on Sundays.