Which musician played strings on Taylor Swift’s song “august”?

Bobby Hawk played strings on Taylor Swift’s song “august.”

Hawk’s credit is specifically for strings, adding to the track’s layered and atmospheric arrangement. The song also features contributions from Evan Smith, who played saxophones, flute, electric guitar, and keyboards, while Jack Antonoff handled drums, percussion, programming, and guitars.

The instrumental palette helps explain why “august” is often described through several overlapping styles, including dream pop, guitar pop, and soft rock. Rather than relying only on a conventional acoustic or electronic arrangement, the production combines programmed elements, guitars, synth bass, wind instruments, and strings.

Bobby Hawk’s role is distinct from the song’s songwriting and production credits. Taylor Swift and Jack Antonoff wrote “august,” and Swift and Antonoff were listed as its principal producers in Folklore’s liner notes. The Recording Academy later recognized Joe Alwyn as a co-producer after Folklore won Album of the Year.