Each morning at Symphony Hall, security guard Ken Boehling welcomes musicians, crew, and staff through the backstage door with a smile and genuine curiosity. As the backstage security guard, he’s had a front-row seat to countless moments that happen behind the scenes at Symphony Hall.
Ken’s love for classical music goes back to his childhood in New York City.
“My parents took me to see Swan Lake and The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center when I was about 12,” he reminisces. “Those performances left an impression on me—it just stuck with me.”
Now, decades later, his passion for symphonic music has come full circle as he works closely with the musicians he once admired from a distance.
Ken’s role also gives him a deep appreciation for the teamwork behind the scenes. “People don’t realize the amount of work that goes into every performance—setting up the stage, trucking equipment, adjusting lighting and backdrops. The smoothness of the cooperation here is better than in the military, honestly,” he marvels. “And everyone just loves their work.”
What keeps Ken inspired daily is the chance to connect with musicians and learn their stories. “Their backgrounds are so rich. I study the programs and love talking to them face-to-face,” he says. “Getting to know them makes the music even more meaningful.”
One moment in particular stands out to Ken while he was watching a performance. “There was this incredible thing with Maggie, one of the violinists,” Ken shares with excitement. “During a performance, she broke a string. The other musicians passed a string up to her from the third row. Maggie quietly changed the string, tuned it, and jumped back into the performance without missing a beat. It was amazing. Bravo to Maggie!”
Ken appreciates not just the musicians’ talent but their dedication to their craft. “The teamwork here is unbelievable,” he says. “No complaints—people just get it done. Watching the cooperation and effort that goes into each performance is inspiring. The audience doesn’t always see that side, but it’s incredible to witness.”
Working at Symphony Hall has deepened Ken’s appreciation for music and the people who create it. “Knowing the musicians personally makes it even more special,” he says. “When I attend a performance now, I see and hear not only incredible music but, also, the faces of people I know and respect.”
Ken believes that exposing young people to live music is crucial. “Classical music is a timeless art form,” he says, “and it’s important to ensure that future generations have the opportunity to experience its power and beauty.”
Ken’s journey reminds us of the magic that happens not just on stage but behind it. His story is a testament to the passion, precision, and collaboration that make each performance extraordinary. As he puts it, “It’s worth every penny to see what happens on both sides.”
