Lynn Marie Peithman
Cello

Hometown: Livonia, Michigan
Member of the Nashville Symphony since 1985

What inspired you to play the cello, and when did you know that you wanted to be a professional musician?
My mother was a piano teacher, and she taught me piano when I was a very young child. My elementary school gave fifth graders the opportunity to begin orchestral instruments. Since I was about to get braces, my parents suggested a string instrument. I liked the sound of the cello best.

Becoming a professional cellist was a natural progression over the years. Even though I played various sports in school and had top grades, I believe I was given the most support and encouragement in my musical studies. Being offered a full-tuition scholarship at the University of Michigan for my undergraduate and graduate years, it was just a “given” that this was my field.

Do you have a favorite composer or piece of music?
I couldn’t possibly have one favorite composer. Of course, it’s always nice when a composer gives the cello a nice melody. As far as the classics, I would lean toward many Russian composers…but variety is the spice of life.

What do you enjoy about being a member of the Nashville Symphony?
I have enjoyed being a member of the Nashville Symphony for 29 years. I respect my colleagues, and I love to be a part of beautiful performances. We have some incredible talent in our orchestra, and I get to hear them perform all the time! In general, this is a very smart bunch of folks, highly educated and extremely dedicated. No one seems to take themselves too seriously, though, and our senses of humor help get us through a lot of stressful situations.

What do you most like about living in Nashville, and what makes our community special?
Nashville has grown on me over the years, and I truly love living here. Besides the weather being more moderate than in Michigan, I have to say that it’s the kind and friendly nature of so many people here that makes Nashville special to me. It is a wonderful place to raise my young son.

Our city is full of musicians and music lovers. The genre of music doesn’t really matter. A great musical talent is recognized by others. This is a culturally and financially rich community that has the capacity to support its world-class symphony orchestra. We have generous and loyal fans.

What do you most want people in our community to know about the Nashville Symphony?
I want Nashville to know that its symphony wants to play music that Nashville wants to hear. The musicians have dedicated their lives to their craft. If it’s written for an orchestra, we can play it. If you haven’t tried us in a while, come back and listen. If you want to hear more of something, be vocal. If you like it, we probably do, too.