Since joining the first violin section of the Louisville Orchestra in the ‘23-’24 season, Kevin Murphy has performed regularly with local ensembles, such as the Chamber Orchestra of Louisville, the Derby City Chamber Music Festival, and NouLou Chamber Players. He also serves in the worship band at Sojourn East, playing CCM, rock, and gospel. Before joining the LO, Kevin played with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. He also served on the violin faculty of Vivaldi Music Academy and Campbell Learning Center in Houston, TX. Kevin completed his studies at the Rice University Shepherd School of Music as a student of Kathleen Winkler, and attended both the UNCSA high school and undergraduate programs, studying with Ida Bieler, Kevin Lawrence, and Janet Orenstein. Other educational highlights include a semester at the Robert Schumann Hochschule Düsseldorf in Germany, where Kevin learned German and researched the music of Robert Schumann and Johannes Brahms.

What do you enjoy most about performing with the Louisville Orchestra?

The LO cares deeply about connection and community, both in Louisville and across Kentuckiana. LO musicians have the privilege of sharing music in ways that are fresh, impactful, and meaningful for listeners. We are an orchestra that longs for that level of connection in every performance!

In what ways do you think the Louisville Orchestra can make the greatest impact on our community?

Great music inspires hope. It is a testament to the fact that good and beautiful things are happening in Louisville every single day. It points to the transcendent, enabling and galvanizing the many spheres people who work arduously for the good of the community.

What is your favorite type of orchestral music to perform, and why?

My favorite thing about orchestra is the fact that we can play virtually any kind of music. Since I joined the orchestra, we've played bluegrass, hip hop, funk, film music, gospel, mariachi - you name it!

Do you have a Louisville Orchestra or event that is especially meaningful or memorable?

I've been moved by the enthusiastic turnout for the concerts in our In Harmony tour. There are audiences all across Kentucky who are excited about orchestral music, and I always look forward to sharing unique, creative programs with them!