Max Hobart’s musical journey has taken him to places he never expected. Currently serving as the music director and conductor for the Metrowest Symphony Orchestra, Hobart spent 27 years with the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) as both a performer and conductor. His career includes roles such as music director of the Boston Civic Symphony, assistant concertmaster with the BSO, featured soloist with the Boston Pops, and violinist with esteemed orchestras like the Cleveland Orchestra, the National Symphony Orchestra, and the New Orleans Symphony. Recently, he also conducted the Wellesley Symphony Orchestra.
Known for his infectious sense of humor, Hobart boasts an impressive array of musical accomplishments. He has performed at prestigious venues such as Symphony Hall, Tanglewood, and Carnegie Hall, as well as embarked on global concert tours. His collaborations include working with iconic conductors like Arthur Fiedler, John Williams, Seiji Ozawa, William Steinberg, and Erich Leinsdorf.
Born in Nebraska and raised in California, Hobart grew up in a working-class family that valued the American Dream. Reflecting on his upbringing, the 88-year-old Wellesley resident credits his mother for instilling a strong work ethic and teaching him that success comes from both hard work and passion for what you do.
“I grew up in a blue-collar community,” he recalled. “When the musical instrument salesman came to our neighborhood, I was hoping to get a guitar like my best friend. Our heroes were Roy Rogers and Gene Autry, so a guitar seemed perfect. When the salesman arrived at my house, the only instrument left was a violin. Thanks to my mother’s encouragement, I practiced every day.” This commitment, along with his natural talent, propelled Hobart to the pinnacle of his musical career.
Hobart’s early performances in community orchestras, playing alongside professional musicians, inspired his continued pursuit of excellence. One of his early career highlights was a small role as a violist in the 1956 film The Benny Goodman Story.
Looking back at his career, Hobart recalls one of his favorite experiences as a conductor. “Three hours before a Tanglewood concert, I received a call to fill in for an ill John Williams. The orchestra was incredibly supportive, and they played wonderfully for me in front of 10,000 people. It was a testament not only to my skill but to the respect my peers had for me,” he said.
Hobart’s time as first-chair violinist was marked by humorous moments. “I was performing Brahms Symphony No. 2 at Carnegie Hall with the BSO when I broke my E string,” Hobart shared. “I was so nervous, with 3,000 people watching me restring my violin. I tuned it, and the string broke again! At that point, Seiji Ozawa was laughing along with me. Eventually, I swapped violins with the second chair so they could fix the string. The show must go on!”
For those contemplating dusting off a long-forgotten instrument, Hobart offers advice: “My best advice for seniors wanting to play music is to pick up an affordable instrument and start practicing. Many of our musicians once played in high school and are now retired, playing with the MSO.”
Max Hobart’s passion for music and his remarkable journey are a testament to his dedication, and we are fortunate to have him as the music director, bringing joy to the hearts of Central Massachusetts through his conducting.
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