Joe LaRocca is one of New England's most sought-after artists, earning a reputation among theaters for his versatility as a versatile musician, actor, singer, writer, and educator. Joe’s ease with all genres combined with a commanding stage presence has quickly made him a go-to choice for top theaters in the Greater Boston Area and around the country, bringing pit musicians into the spotlight for on-stage musician roles being a highlight of his work. With primary focus on flute, saxophone, clarinet, and double reeds, Joe’s expertise extends to include a wide assortment of ethnic and historical winds, bringing opportunities to explore more traditional orchestral and chamber performances, as well as new experimental works. He has also extensive experience as an actor and singer, having performed with many of Boston's theatre companies and in nationally televised commercials. 

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Joe’s on-stage work has gained recognition from multiple organizations, including an award from the St. Louis Theater Circle for his work on The Lehman Trilogy (St. Louis Repertory Theater), and two 2024 Elliot Norton Awards nominations for his work on The Lehman Trilogy (Huntington Theatre) and The Band’s Visit (Huntington Theatre/Speakeasy Stage). Other credits include Jesus Christ Superstar 50th Anniversary National Tour, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Ogunquit Playhouse), American Repertory Theater’s production of Gatsby, and will perform in the ensemble cast as "Carson" along with playing the reed book on Speakeasy Stage's production of A Man of No Importance. He also had a principal role as "Ethan Miller" in Treehouse Collective's production of The Ballad of Little Jo, where his resonant tenor voice was commended by audiences. 

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Outside of the theater realm, Joe has an extensive list of concerti, solos, and chamber music, and has enjoyed principal flute positions at The Du Bois Orchestra, Boston Chamber Symphony, Cape Ann Symphony, Metropolitan Wind Symphony, and others. Joe holds a Bachelor’s of Music in Saxophone Performance from Columbia College Chicago, Master’s of Music in Multi-Wind Performance from Northern Illinois University, and was the recipient of the coveted Artist Diploma in Flute Performance from Longy School of Music at Bard College, being the sole recipient of the diploma that year.

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Joe is also a prolific writer having penned dozens of articles surrounding advocacy for artists. A highlight of his work "Casting The Pit" was published on Howlround Theatre Commons, and his Substack series "A View From The Pit" having a substantial international following. 

 

Finally, Joe is the owner and founder of Boston Woodwind Academy, which provides private instruction for students on flute, saxophone, and clarinet, and has produced students who have gone on to be top players in their school band programs, as well as one student who recently attended Interlochen Arts Academy's summer camp.