Violinist Heather Thomas is a member of the Louisville Orchestra, NouLou Chamber Players, and Duo Criquet. Previously, she was a Fellow with the New World Symphony, founded and directed by Michael Tilson Thomas. Heather earned her Master of Music degree from Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music studying under Kathleen Winkler, following her Bachelor of Music degree from Columbus State University’s Schwob School of Music with Sergiu Schwartz.

She has participated in prestigious festivals, including the Bowdoin International Music Festival, Music Academy of the West, Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival, Tanglewood Music Festival, the Lakes Area Music Festival, and the Derby City Chamber Music Festival. Highlights include serving as concertmaster for an un-conducted performance of Dvořák's Serenade for Strings at the Tanglewood Music Festival coached by Joseph Silverstein and leading Beethoven’s Symphony No. 4 with the Music Academy of the West Chamber Orchestra.

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

I enjoy seeing and hearing the reactions from our audience! Everyone here in Louisville is incredibly open and supportive, and it's been a privilege to be a part of this community.

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

The LO already does this really well, but making sure everyone has access to and can enjoy a live orchestra performance!