Austin Fitzhenry

MUSICIAN | CELLO

Austin Fitzhenry is the protege of former CSO principal cellist James Holland. Since Austin was 4 years old, he and his 3 sisters grew up immersed in Charleston’s classical music community, eventually forming a string quartet together.

The CSOL awarded Austin scholarships on numerous occasions to help fund his private instruction with James Holland and later, with present-day CSO cellist Damian Kremer. Meanwhile, Austin and his sisters were regular performers at the CSOL designer showhouse fundraising events.

One of Austin’s most memorable musical experiences was his years in the Charleston Symphony Youth Orchestra. Every time he attends a symphony concert, he recalls the awe he felt while performing symphonies as a teenager. One year, Austin won the annual Youth Orchestra Concerto Competition, earning him the privilege of soloing with the CSO at the Gaillard Auditorium.

Since then, Austin funded his biology degree at the College of Charleston with the earnings from his cello performances. Beyond music, Austin is passionate about venomous snakes, science, public speaking, ultra-running, regenerative farming, and Spanish, to name just a few.

In his travels, Austin has performed formally and informally in cities such as New Orleans, Medellín, Munich, and Bratislava.

Today, Austin’s full time career is as a cellist and booking agent, creating unique entertainment at private events throughout the Lowcountry and beyond.

Recently, Austin’s musical journey came full circle when he joined the CSOL as a member of its young professionals chapter, Dynamics. Today more than ever, Austin enjoys inspiring children and young professionals alike to appreciate and participate in classical music.