Niles Watson, from Damascus, MD, joined the Columbus Symphony as Principal Flute in February of 2019. He is a graduate of the Curtis Institute of Music, where he studied with Jeffrey Khaner. Niles’ prior teachers include Aaron Goldman of the National Symphony.

Before coming to Columbus, Niles spent two seasons playing full time with the Philadelphia Orchestra. With Curtis on Tour, as well as with the Philadelphia Orchestra, he has played extensively across the US and abroad.

As a winner of the Greenfield Competition, Niles made his solo debut with the Philadelphia Orchestra in 2011. He has also been a soloist with the National Symphony, the Valley Forge Orchestra, and the Amerita Chamber Players.

Playing with the Qwinda Woodwind Quintet, Niles toured Colorado as part of the Bravo! Vail Young Professionals in Residence in 2016. He was also in residence with Qwinda at Music from Angel Fire, coaching at schools and playing local concerts.

In his free time, Niles enjoys going on roller coasters, lifting weights, playing Apex Legends, and fishing, though he is not very good at any of them.