Musicians Behind the Scenes: Violist Laura Fuller
September 21, 2026
Photo: Todd Rosenberg
Where were you born? I was born in Overland Park, Kansas.
What piece of music could you play over and over again? Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7, the end of the last movement gives me goosebumps every single time.
What piece of music never fails to move you? The second movement (Adagio assai) from Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G major.
What do you love most about performing? I think music, whether performing or listening, is a beautiful and powerful way to press pause on the busyness of life and, in a sense, be transported into another world.
When did you join the Orchestra? In 2026.
Do you play any other instruments? Not currently, but I used to play violin and also played bass for a year in high school.
What do you like to do in your spare time? I enjoy jogging, cooking, traveling, and listening to music.
What’s your favorite movie? Gladiator.
What do you love most about Philadelphia? The Orchestra!
What’s the first album you ever bought or downloaded? A compilation called Romantic Favorites for Strings with the New York Philharmonic conducted by Leonard Bernstein, which includes works by Mahler, Barber, Vaughan Williams, and Tchaikovsky.
What’s on your Spotify playlist? I have a playlist of about 250 of my favorite classical music tracks, but my recent favorite additions include the last movement of Schnittke’s Piano Quintet, the third movement of Britten’s String Quartet No. 1, and Schumann’s Dichterliebe. I also love ’90s old school rap.
When was the first time you heard The Philadelphia Orchestra? My dad took me to Philly to hear Charles Dutoit conduct Copland’s Symphony No. 3 in 2000. I was in high school and was completely starstruck!
What is your favorite memory with the Orchestra? Playing Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring with Yannick Nézet-Séguin. I love the piece and LOVED his interpretation!
What advice would you give to aspiring young musicians? Never give up on your dreams! Especially regarding auditions, not winning at first can be an invaluable opportunity to learn and grow. Don’t be afraid to climb the ladder.