Courtney Filner, Viola
Courtney Sedgwick Filner is a native of Minnesota and, in addition to her work with the Naples Philharmonic, is the principal violist of the Southwest Florida Symphony. Courtney has previously held positions as assistant principal viola of the Richmond Symphony (Virginia), principal viola of the Stockton Symphony and has been a member of the viola sections of the San Antonio Symphony, the Florida Philharmonic, the San Diego Symphony and the New World Symphony. She teaches viola and chamber music at Florida Gulf Coast University and is a registered Suzuki teacher of violin and viola. Courtney holds a Bachelor of Music from Oberlin Conservatory and a Master of Music from UCLA.
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The facts:
I grew up in Bloomington, Minnesota, and I studied at Oberlin Conservatory and UCLA. Before moving to Naples, I was a member of several orchestras, including the San Antonio Symphony, the Richmond Symphony and the New World Symphony.
What inspired you to become a musician?
I started Suzuki violin lessons when I was 3 years old, and I added viola in high school. I always enjoyed music, but I didn’t think I wanted to become a musician until I attended Madeline Island Music Camp when I was a teenager. After that experience, I couldn’t think of anything else I wanted to do.
What is challenging about playing your instrument?
The viola can be a little unwieldy and tiring to play for long periods of time.
What are your favorite compositions?
A few of my favorites are the Brahms B-Flat String Sextet, Beethoven’s 7th Symphony and Appalachian Spring by Aaron Copland.
What have you been listening to recently?
I listen to a lot of audio books and the music my kids are currently practicing on their violins. If I’m in charge of the playlist, I will almost always choose the Indigo Girls.
Are there other musicians in your immediate family?
I am the only musician in my family of origin, but I married another violist, and we have two kids who both play the violin.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I love a good craft project. I enjoy knitting, drawing mandalas and I’m learning hand lettering.