Musician Spotlight: Cherylonda Fitzgerald, Cello

Meet Cherylonda Fitzgerald!

Cherylonda is a resident of Johnson City and has performed with the JCSO since 2004. She works as an adjunct professor of cello and chamber music at Milligan University. In addition to being a freelance musician with the JCSO, she plays with Asheville Symphony, Symphony of the Mountains, and the Paramount Chamber Players. Learn more about Cheryl below!

What is the best part of performing with the JCSO?

The best part of my profession is being able to share something that I love and value (music) with friends (including fellow musicians), students and patrons. I enjoy the JCSO in particular because Johnson City is where I live and giving back to the community is important to me. 

What/who influenced your love of music?

My parents: My Dad used to sing us to sleep and would give us his old records to sing and dance to. My Mom had a beautiful voice and sang in the church choir. She always supported me fully—taking me to countless piano lessons, cello lessons, youth orchestra rehearsals, concerts, recitals, music camps, etc.

What is your favorite hobby outside of music?

I enjoy riding my bike on the Tweetsie Trail and doing long distance cycling events.

What is your favorite animal and why?

Cats of course! My husband and I are owned by six of them.

Why did you pick your instrument to learn to play?

When I was in 5th grade, a string quartet performed for my class to recruit for the middle school orchestra. I decided to sign up for cello because the violin parts looked too flashy and difficult! I later found out cello parts can be flashy and hard too, but by then it was too late—I was hooked on that beautiful, rich cello sound!

What's the best piece of advice you've received as a musician? 

Every one of my teachers encouraged me to play from the heart and to do my best to express what each piece of music means to me personally. Music is so much more than just playing the right notes. 

What was your most memorable performance? (This doesn't have to be with the JCSO)

In 2013 I had the pleasure of performing my favorite cello concerto with the JCSO. I hadn’t performed the Dvorak Cello Concerto with orchestra in over 30 years and there was plenty of preparation and courage involved, but I have always enjoyed a good challenge! 

---

Consider purchasing a ticket to one of the JCSO's upcoming concerts! You can find our schedule at www.jcsymphony.com.

By purchasing a ticket, you are directly contributing to the sustainability of the JCSO, helping us continue to bring

world-class performances to our community!

If you feel moved to donate to the JCSO, click HERE. Any donation is appreciated!