Betsy Federman
Cello
What do you want patrons of the Symphony to know about you?
I enjoy performing the many varied programs with the Jacksonville Symphony. Music can be so healing for people and I enjoy being part of the experience. My wife Elissa and I enjoy traveling.
Do you have any pre-concert rituals or routines?
I try and take it easy before a concert. I like to review challenging passages.
What would you be doing if you weren’t a professional musician?
It is hard to imagine doing anything else. I might have chosen to follow my father into business and entrepreneurship. I’m a serious fan of Shark Tank.
What teacher, mentor or other influencer inspired you the most?
All my teachers and conductors have inspired me. I enjoyed playing with Leonard Bernstein and Michael Tilson Thomas. I was fortunate to study the cello with Janos Starker.
What do you do in your spare time?
I enjoy playing the guitar and the piano. I also enjoy painting and drawing.
What has been your favorite moment on stage?
It is always a thrill to play with the amazing and talented soloists who share the stage with the Symphony.
Who is your favorite composer?
I enjoy Ravel, Debussy and Prokofiev.
Career Highlights
I played with the New World Symphony under Michael Tilson Thomas. Before coming to Jacksonville I had a position in the Naples Philharmonic. I was lucky to have played under Leonard Bernstein at Schleswig Holstein Music Festival with a tour to London and Moscow.
Education
Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees from Indiana University while studying with Distinguished Professor Janos Starker.