Jean Phelan, Assistant Principal Viola

Member of Southwest Florida Symphony since: 2005

Born: Daytona Beach, FL

Age started learning Viola: 9 years old  (piano 5 yrs old)

Degrees: Bachelor of Music (BM) Stetson University, Master of Music (MM) Northwestern University

Jeanie studied and took lessons on Viola for 5 years PRIOR to attending college (12 years on piano)

Symphonic experience Jean brings to SWFSO:  “I am also a member of Sarasota Orchestra.  I sub often with Naples Philharmonic, Florida Orchestra, and Orlando Philharmonic.  Previously I was a member of Shreveport Symphony for 5 years, and freelanced with many orchestras in the Dallas/Tex-Arkana region.” 

Famous musicians Jean has worked with:  “Too many to count. Some recent favorites were Augustin Hadlich, Josh Bell, Gabriela Montero, and Renee Fleming.  Professionally, the highlight of my career was studying under Sir George Solti, Barenboim, Zubin Mehta, and Piere Boulez while a member of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago back in the early ‘90’s, and learning from many members of the Chicago Symphony. More recently I played in an orchestra with John Williams conducting parts of his Harry Potter score.

Teaching Experience Jean has had:  “I was the Viola Instructor at Northwestern State College (LA) for 3 years and State College of Florida for 8 years. When I lived in Dallas, I taught private lessons to 65 middle and high school students!”

Something you may not know about Jean: “I have written over 200 arrangements of mostly pop tunes for string quartet and string trios.  I am one of 8 kids, so I am deeply grateful to my parents who paid for and drove me to many, many piano, viola, and pipe organ lessons and competitions.”

What Jean likes most about playing in SWFSO:  “My incredibly awesome and funny stand partner principal violist, Courtney Filner.  I also feel lucky to work with our inspiring new Music Director, Radu Paponiu”