David Nielsen, oboist, especially enjoys performing with singers. Locally, he performs with Arcadia Players, Panopera, Hampshire Choral Society and freelances with other vocal ensembles, both large and small. Among the first generation of residency-trained, board-certified ER docs, he retired in 2006 after 30 years working in ERs in Ohio, Michigan, Washington, and Massachusetts. David attributes his love of music to a strong musical upbringing (“ Don’t even think about playing baseball until you’ve practiced the piano today”), continued growth from playing alongside his musically informed and conservatory-trained colleagues, and the support of local conductors. He views live performance as a means to an end—bringing people together.