First year with SO: 2004

Hometown: Erie, PA

Instrument: Shawna's violin is an 1851 Pedrinelli.

Education:
Bachelor of Music – Eastman School of Music; Longy School of Music; Master of Music – Carnegie Mellon University; New World Symphony

Biography:
Violinist Shawna Trost earned her Bachelor's degree from the Eastman School of Music. She furthered her studies at the Longy School of Music, before receiving a Master's degree with performance honors from Carnegie Mellon University. There, she would receive first place in the prestigious Silberman Chamber Music Competition. Later, as a fellow with the New World Symphony, she would perform at New York's famous Carnegie Hall. 
Shawna has performed and soloed with numerous orchestras including Sarasota Opera, Pittsburgh Opera, Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra, Richmond Symphony Orchestra, Florida Grand Opera, Miami City Ballet, Des Moines Metro Opera, Utah Festival Opera, Ash Lawn Opera Festival, and Spoleto Festival USA.  She has been featured as a soloist with the National Repertory Orchestra, and has performed at numerous European music festivals. Her travels have also included tours of China, as well as the North American tour of Star Wars in Concert.

Passions/Interests:
An active teacher, Shawna finds enjoyment in fostering the talents of the young violinists in her studio. She loves to spend time with her family, including her three beautiful children, Preston, Julian, and Angelique, and travel the world making music.

Career Highlights:
Along with her love for classical performance, Shawna frequently enjoys opportunities to work in other musical genres with many amazing artists. She has performed with Renee Fleming, Andrea Bocelli, Audra McDonald, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Johnny Mathis, Barry Manilow, Mary J. Blige, Jackie Evancho, David Foster, Paul Anka, Bernadette Peters, Celtic Thunder, CeeLo Green, Peter Cetera of Journey, Paul Oakenfold, Celtic Women, 2 Cellos, and The Irish Tenors.