Lillian Pettitt was raised in a musical family in Houston, Texas. She developed a passion for music early on, leading to undergraduate studies at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. During her time in San Francisco, she balanced her musical pursuits with a career as a runway model. She continued her education at DePaul University School of Music in Chicago, earning her Masters in Performance.

Lillian has performed with several notable ensembles, including the Chicago Philharmonic, Madison Symphony, and Grand Rapids Symphony. She held leadership roles as Assistant Principal Cello with the Kalamazoo Symphony and Principal Cello with Orchestra Iowa before winning her position with the Louisville Orchestra in 2019.

Now based in Louisville, Lillian enjoys an active lifestyle that includes running with the Derby City Run Club and exploring her love of cooking. She shares her home with her husband Brad their two cats Wicket and Ceiba, and their new puppy Kai.

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

Nothing is off the table. There's always room to try something new without judgement.

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

We not only play throughout various venues the community, but we also showcase our local talent on stage!

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

Romantic and neo classical tone poems and symphonies

Who is your favorite composer or musician?

Shostakovich

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

Playing with Yo-Yo Ma in Mammoth cave and playing with Jack Harlow!

What are some of your hobbies outside the LO?

Running, cooking, playing with cats and dogs, gardening

Favorite orchestral work?

Its not an original answer but I really enjoy Shostakovich Symphony No.5. I played it for the first time when I was 14 at All State and I was HOOKED.

What's on your playlist (what song are you currently into)?

I actually dont listen to music very often. If im listening to music its usually what I'm about to play at work. I usually listen to stand up comedy and podcasts. So Patton Oswald, Hannibal Buress, Maria Bamford, Eugene Mirman, Kyle Kinane and Ali Wong.