Nicole Sauder is currently the violinist for Cirque du Soleil’s ECHO and a member of the New Century Chamber Orchestra. Previously, she spent seven years with the San Diego Symphony. Nicole received her BM from Cleveland Institute of Music and MM from UCLA, where she was a member of the VEM String Quartet, UCLA’s graduate string quartet founded for the performance and study of Armenian music. In her spare time, Nicole enjoys playing the bodhran, mandolin and ukelele, and making her own clothes.

What is your hometown?

Lancaster, PA

How long have you performed with New Century?

My first concert with New Century was in December 2019. 

What do you love about New Century?

I love that New Century is like a family. 

What is your favorite New Century memory?

My favorite New Century memory was the Hope at Home project at Fort Mason. For most of us, it was our first time playing music with others since the pandemic began. It was a powerful week. 

How did you start learning your instrument, or who inspired you to begin?

I started when I was eight after hearing violins in the Nutcracker Ballet.

What do you like to do when you're not being a musician? What are your hobbies?

I love playing Irish music (on fiddle and also bodhran). I also enjoy sewing and playing Dungeons and Dragons.

What's your favorite Bay Area place (restaurant, park, etc.)?

Ebisu, Besharam, Kantine for cardamom morning buns!