Courtney Filner, Viola Principal

Member of Southwest Florida Symphony since: 2014

Born: Minneapolis, MN and raised in Bloomington, MN.

Age started learning Instrument: “I started on the violin with the Suzuki Method when I was 3 years old and added viola when I was 14.”

Degrees: Bachelor of Music (BM) from Oberlin. Master of Music (MM) from U.C.L.A. Courtney also spent one year doing post-graduate work at Manhattan School of Music.

Courtney studied and took lessons for 15 years PRIOR to getting into college

Symphonic experience Courtney brings to SWFSO:
“Currently, I play regularly with the Naples Philharmonic and SWFSO. I have previously been a member of the viola sections of the San Antonio Symphony, the Austin Symphony, the Florida Philharmonic, the New World Symphony, and the San Diego Symphony. I have also held the positions of Principal of the Stockton Symphony, and Assistant Principal of the Richmond Symphony.”

Famous musicians Courtney has worked with:  “I have performed in the orchestra behind many great soloists including Yo-Yo Ma, Itzhak Perelman, Isaac Stern, Renee Fleming, Lang Lang, and Emanuel Ax. Some of the notable conductors I’ve had the privilege to play with are Michael Tilson Thomas, Seiji Ozawa, Robert Spano and Marin Alsop.”

Music Festivals Courtney has been a part of: As a student: Aspen Music Festival, fellow at Tanglewood Music Center in 1997 and 1998, and principal violist of the National Repertory Orchestra in 1999 and 2000. As a professional: Colorado Music Festival orchestra from 2001-2009 and again from 2016-2021.

Teaching experience Courtney has:  Currently teaches viola at FGCU and previously taught at University of Texas San Antonio and Texas Lutheran University. Courtney is also a registered Suzuki violin and viola teacher and currently has a few high school aged students.

Something you may not know about Courtney “I have two kids who take up most of my time when I’m not working or teaching. They both play the violin. I’m also an avid crafter and enjoy everything from knitting and sewing to drawing zentangles and hand lettering.”

What Courtney likes most about playing in SWFSO: “Sharing a stand with my awesome stand partner, Jeanie Phelan.”