Jennifer George, Violin
Rathmann Family Foundation Chair
Jennifer George recently completed her Master’s of Music in violin performance at Florida State University, where she worked with Dr. Benjamin Sung as a graduate teaching assistant. Originally from Boise, Idaho, Jennifer received her bachelor’s degree in the same field at the Blair School of Music at Vanderbilt University, where she studied with Dr. Carolyn Huebl. Jennifer has participated in numerous orchestral programs, including the Aspen Music Festival and School, National Repertory Orchestra and Brevard Music Center.
”
The facts:
I am originally from Boise, Idaho, and I studied at Vanderbilt University and Florida State University. I auditioned for the Naples Philharmonic in the fall of 2015 after completing my master’s degree earlier that year. I officially joined the orchestra in January of 2016.
What has been your most memorable moment with the orchestra?
One of the sweetest moments was during a Pops performance when the guest artist invited the entire audience to get up and slow dance to Stand by Me. I couldn’t help but smile through the entire song.
What inspired you to become a musician?
I began playing at such a young age that I never really knew what it was like to not be a musician! However, all the opportunities I had because of music, such as traveling and meeting incredible people from all over the world, inspired me to pursue music professionally.
What is the most enjoyable part of your job?
I love that we perform so many different styles and genres. I could be playing a Schubert quartet one week, a movie soundtrack another, followed by a Mahler symphony and a Broadway musical! It definitely keeps me on my toes!
What’s challenging about playing your instrument?
I think what is challenging about playing the violin in an orchestra is finding the balance between the individual and the whole. We each have our own voice and it’s up to us to combine them in a way that creates a unified sound.
What are your favorite compositions?
Schoenberg’s Verklärte Nacht.