Monica Hanulik

2nd/Assistant Principal

2nd Oboe is definitely one of the most challenging positions in any symphony orchestra. If you ever wonder why it seems so difficult to hear the 2nd oboe player, it’s because she's doing a superb job supporting the principal. Next time you hear the oboe section playing, look carefully to see the awesome job Monica does!

Monica has been a member of the Colorado Symphony since 1997. She has performed as guest Principal Oboe with the St. Louis Symphony and Los Angeles Philharmonic. Monica has also performed at Cabrillo, Grand Teton, and Carmel Bach festivals. Prior to turning pro, Monica earned a Bachelor of Music degree from the Oberlin Conservatory, a Master’s from Juilliard, and a Professional Studies Certificate from Temple University. Serious stage cred!

Monica brings a dynamic force to the Colorado Symphony. She has served on numerous musician volunteer committees, is the most knowledgeable person in the orchestra to go to with questions related to personal finance and investment (important for any fellow musicians who spent too many hours in the practice room to develop real world skills), loves a good joke, and is not afraid to wear a ton of pink. Backstage you can usually find Monica perusing cooking magazines or talking with her Colorado Symphony buds. She loves gourmet cooking, black-and-white photography, skiing and swimming, and hanging out with her Colorado Symphony violinist husband Tom and their young sons.