Formerly the Principal Cellist of Akron Symphony and a member of the Marini String Quartet, Allison Olsen joined the cello section of the Louisville Orchestra in 2006. Allison has performed and toured internationally in Europe, the Middle East and Russia, and has performed at music festivals including the Grand Teton Music Festival, Kent/Blossom, Spoleto USA, Lancaster Festival, and the Jerusalem International Symphony Orchestra. She received a Bachelor's Degree from Rice University, a Master's Degree from the University of Akron, and continued her studies at the Cleveland Institute of Music in the Professional Studies Program. Her teachers have included Desmond Hoebig, Shirley Trepel, Eric Kim and Stephen Geber, as well as chamber music coaches Josef Gingold and Ron Leonard. She currently spends her summers as the Principal Cellist of the Lakeside Chautauqua Orchestra in Ohio.

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

I enjoy getting to play exciting new programs with the Louisville Orchestra every week.

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

We can make the greatest impact on our community by bringing music to everyone where they're at...in their neighborhoods and in their schools.

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

Symphonies are my favorite...I love to be surrounded by the sounds of an entire orchestra!

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

Performing the music of John Williams while he conducted us was one of my favorite concerts ever!

What are some things that inspire you as a musician?

I love how music brings people together and breaks down barriers.

What do you love most about being part of the Louisville community?  

I love how small Louisville feels...you never know who you will run into at a store, in the park, or at a concert.

What’s something unique, surprising, fun, or interesting about you?  

I was born in Montreal, Canada, while my father was a violinist in the Montreal Symphony.

What are some of your hobbies outside the LO?

Traveling

Favorite orchestral work?

Beethoven's 7th Symphony