Viola

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Violist Stephanie Knutsen is a highly active musician in the Washington D.C. area, having dedicated the past two decades to a bustling performing and teaching career. Her warm presence and professional expertise have made her a sought-after performer across the region.

Ms. Knutsen's extensive performance schedule includes regular appearances with ensembles such as the Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra, the National Philharmonic, the Richmond and Harrisburg Symphonies, and the Wolf Trap Opera Orchestra. She holds key leadership positions as Assistant Principal Viola of the Maryland Symphony Orchestra and Associate Principal Viola of the American Pops Orchestra. Her versatility and skill have led her to appear on several televised PBS specials with the American Pops Orchestra, sharing the stage with acclaimed Broadway stars like Cynthia Erivo, Christopher Jackson, and André De Shields, as well as classical luminaries such as Joshua Bell, Midori, and Renée Fleming.

Beyond her vibrant performing life, Ms. Knutsen is a passionate educator. She maintains a thriving viola and violin studio at her home in Sterling and is an enthusiastic new member of the Main Street Music Studio in Fairfax, VA. Ms. Knutsen is also highly regarded as a sectionals coach for youth and school orchestras and has contributed her expertise as a judge for Solo and Ensemble Festivals in Loudoun County.

In 2020, during the pandemic, Ms. Knutsen co-founded the Musician Centric Podcast with her colleague Liz O’Hara. With over 70 episodes, this impactful podcast serves as an inspiring platform for musicians, particularly freelancers, to explore diverse perspectives within the music field and cultivate a greater sense of agency in their careers. As a testament to its reach, the podcast has hosted live events at significant gatherings, including the International Viola Congress and the American Viola Society conference.

A native of Montgomery County, MD, Ms. Knutsen holds a degree in Music Education from James Madison University. She currently resides in Sterling, VA, with her husband, two daughters, and their bearded dragon.

Personal website: 

https://knutsenstringstudio.com/

Contact Ms. Knutsen: 

KnutsenStringStudio@gmail.com