BIOGRAPHY

Eric Rau is a passionate cellist known for his bold yet playful sound. He loves music as he sees it as a gift to cherish and use for the good of those around him. Native to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Eric started playing the cello at just the age of 5. He is a diligent student of the craft, always learning as he also continues to be an active orchestral and chamber musician.

Currently, Eric is assistant principal of the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music Chamber Orchestra. He previously served as co-principal of the University of North Texas' Symphony Orchestra, is a former member of the Kintsugi Quartet of UNT, a former section member of the Las Colinas Symphony Orchestra, and a former member of the award winning Helicon Trio. He also has an extensive history of competing as a soloist. Past achievements include 2nd place at the Rudolf Matz International String Competition, finalist in the UNT Concerto Competition, semifinalist in the Antonio Janigro International Cello Competition, semifinalist in the Young Texas Artists Music Competition. He also received first prize at the Music International Grand Prix (chamber music division) and was a semifinalist in the Coltman Chamber Music Competition.

Eric is currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Music Performance at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. He is studying with Peter Stumpf. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Music Performance from the University of North Texas. Eric previously studied

Nikola Nino Ruzevic and with Dr. Elizabeth Morrow. Aside from his professional engagements, Eric also enjoys playing cello at his church every Sunday as well as improvising with his friends. He hopes to continue growing as musician and have a full-time professional career as a performer so he can keep sharing the joy of music to his friends and his community.