Gabriel Kovach

Gabriel Kovach, a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a highly active and accomplished musician in the realms of chamber and orchestral music. Mr. Kovach's career is marked by his exceptional contribution as Principal Horn of the Phoenix Symphony, a role he has held since 2006. Prior to this, he had held esteemed positions as the Principal Horn of the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia and the Opera Company of Philadelphia, which underscore his remarkable skill and experience.

Throughout the summers, he embarks on a musical journey to Cooperstown, New York, where he takes on the role of Principal Horn at the Glimmerglass Opera Festival, showcasing his versatile musicianship. Gabriel Kovach has also lent his talents as the Principal Horn of the National Arts Center Orchestra in Ottawa, Canada, under the esteemed leadership of conductor Pinchas Zukerman. His musical journey has further taken him on tours with the renowned Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, where he undertook responsibilities as both Principal and Second Horn, reflecting his versatility as a performer.

Mr. Kovach continues to be an active member of the substitute pool for the Philadelphia Orchestra, occasionally joining them for remarkable tours, including an unforgettable journey to Asia in 2005. In recognition of his musical excellence, Gabriel Kovach was honored as an Endorsing Artist for Conn Selmer in 2008, a testament to his stature in the world of music.

While his orchestral duties have been a significant part of his musical life, Mr. Kovach is also an active participant in numerous prestigious festivals. For three consecutive summers, he was privileged to participate in the acclaimed Marlboro Music Festival in Vermont. During the summer of 2003, Mr. Kovach, along with four colleagues, co-founded the Sonoro Winds, a group that made its debut performance at the 92nd Street Y in Manhattan. He has also been a part of festivals like Norfolk, Sarasota, Verbier in Switzerland, and Casals Festivals, demonstrating his dedication to a rich and diverse musical experience.

Not limiting himself to performance, Mr. Kovach has assumed an active teaching role, conducting clinics and masterclasses at esteemed universities such as New Mexico State University, The University of Arizona, Arizona State University, and The Interlochen Arts Academy. In 2001, Gabriel Kovach had the prestigious honor of recording a world premiere with the National Polish Radio Symphony Orchestra. The composition, "Esquisses en désarroi," is a rhapsody for cello, French horn, and orchestra, with cellist Inbal Segev and composer Max Schubel.

Recent years have seen Mr. Kovach embark on exciting ventures, including the development of his line of French Horn mouthpieces, crafted by master artisan David Houser at Houser Mouthpieces. In collaboration with master horn builder Jim Patterson at Patterson Hornworks, he successfully designed a newly innovative Triple Horn, which now accompanies him on stage and in concert, reflecting his ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of musical expression.

Gabriel Kovach's remarkable educational journey includes a Bachelor's degree from the prestigious Curtis Institute of Music, where he was privileged to study with notable instructors Myron Bloom and Barry Tuckwell. He furthered his academic and musical pursuits at The Juilliard School, where he earned his Master's Degree under the guidance of renowned instructors Julie Landsman and Jerome Ashby, completing his formal training with excellence.