John Merrill, Violin

photo by Christian Colberg

John Merrill came to the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra from the Dallas Symphony, where he was a member of the first violin section from 1968 to 1971. Prior to his time in Dallas, Mr. Merrill played second violin in the University of Hawaii String Quartet from 1966 to 1968.

Born in Rochester, New York, but raised in Massachusetts, he received his Bachelor of Music degree from Indiana University and his Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Hawaii. His most notable teacher was the prominent Josef Gingold.

Mr. Merrill has served as string consultant to the Baltimore County Public Schools, developed an instrumental music program at Friends School and taught at Essex Community College, Peabody Prep, and UMBC. He currently teaches at the Baltimore School for the Arts. In addition, Mr. Merrill has participated in the Grand Teton Music Festival in Jackson, Wyoming, and has been a member of the BSO Players Committee, serving as its chairman for one year.

Mr. Merrill plays a violin made by Ferdinando Gagliano in 1770. He is married to fellow BSO musician, violist Julia Barker.