Rockstar Violinist Podcast

Julie Lyonn Lieberman has helped develop the multi-style string field over the last forty+ years through her work as an educator, author, radio producer, composer, writer, recording artist, and performer. She has performed on and off Broadway as well as in folk and jazz clubs throughout the United States, and Canada, France and Scotland. She is the recipient of the 2014 American String Teachers Association (ASTA) Kudos Award, over two-dozen ASCAP Plus Awards, eight Meet the Composer awards and three American String Teachers Association's National Citation for Leadership & Merit awards. She produced four American Jazz String Summits in the 1980s and 1990s featuring many of the top improvising string players in America, and co-produced three alternative string festivals within American String Teachers Conference in 2003, 2004, and 2005, serving as the chair for the 2004 component. Julie is a D'Addario Elite Clinician and an NS Design Performance Artist. Learn more about Julie, purchase her many publications including method books, sheet music and DVDs, and find opportunities to expand your playing through Strings Without Boundaries at https://julielyonn.com. Tracks heard in this episode: - 'Technostrings' by Julie Lyonn Lieberman; Kendor Music - 'Dance with Celestrana' with Laraaji Venus and Julie Lyonn Lieberman (Huiksi Music) - 'Blues at Dawn' by Julie Lyonn Lieberman from “A Festival of Violin & Fiddle Styles,” Hal Leonard - 'Swinging the Changes' by Julie Lyonn Lieberman from “A Festival of Violin & Fiddle Styles,” Hal Leonard - 'Bollywood Strings Percussion + SR Orch + Electric Violin' by Julie Lyonn Lieberman; Kendor Music - 'River of Bollywood' by Julie Lyonn Lieberman from “A Festival of Violin & Fiddle Styles,” Hal Leonard If you enjoy this podcast, please take a second to like, comment, subscribe, and SHARE this with all your friends. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Seoyeon Im, aka SixMinor, aka V.OLIN is a jazz and pop violinist from Korea. After studying classical violin in Korea she attended Berklee School of Music in Boston and recently earned a Masters Degree in Jazz from Queens College in NYC. She has large and growing audiences on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok. Find links to her social media and sheet music sales at linktr.ee/sixminor. Music heard in this episode: 'Up In the Air' unreleased original single by Seoyeon Im 'SWING 42' by Django Reinhardt with Jason Anick and Yeonsong Kim Bach Double Violin Concerto arranged for jazz quintet by Seoyeon Im 'Wind Blossom' by Seoyeon Im with Berklee World Strings 'Q Train' by Seoyeon Im 'Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star' arranged by Seoyeon Im in 6 different styles If you enjoy this podcast, please take a second to like, comment, subscribe, and SHARE this with all your friends. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

There are lots of amazing players out there but when you talk to the best players about who blows their minds, one name keeps popping up. Billy Contreras is only in his 30s, but his playing has been raising eyebrows and dropping jaws for over 20 years, from his days as a young fiddle prodigy to his mastery of other genres, including jazz, bluegrass, Western swing and country. When he was six years old, Contreras attended a local fiddle contest and was encouraged to study violin using the Suzuki method. At the age of ten Billy joined Buddy Spicher's Nashville Swing Band. By the time he was 12 years old Contreras won the National Oldtime Fiddlers' Contest. In his teens he studied with classical violinist Rachel Barton Pine and was selected for the Betty Carter Jazz Ahead international residency program. As an adult, Billy has built an important career as a freelance artist, session player, jazz collaborator, fiddle competitor, and educator. Tracks heard in this podcast: - Hot House - Move - Oklahoma Stomp - The Way You Look Tonight - Hot House (Reprise) - Start It Over - Twilight - Tombstone Junction - Squirrel Hunters If you enjoy this podcast, please take a second to like, comment, subscribe, and SHARE this with all your friends. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Exceptional among modern fiddlers for his versatility and depth, Darol Anger has helped drive the evolution of the contemporary string band through his involvement with numerous trailblazing ensembles such as his Republic Of Strings, the Turtle Island String Quartet, the David Grisman Quintet, Montreux,and others. Darol is at home in many of musical genres, some of which he helped to invent! Darol has performed and taught all over the world with musicians such as Dr. Billy Taylor, Bela Fleck, Bill Evans, David Grisman, David Balakrishnan, Tracy Silverman, Mark O'Connor, Phillip Aaberg, Mark O’Connor, and Stephane Grappelli, to name a few. In addition to performing all over the world, he has recorded and produced scores of important recordings and has been a featured soloist on dozens of recordings and motion picture soundtracks. He can be heard on NPR’s “Car Talk” theme (along with Earl Scruggs, David Grisman and Tony Rice) and was also the violinist on the soundtrack of the popular Sim City computer games. An Associate Professor Emeritus at the prestigious Berklee School of music, Anger now runs an ambitious online fiddle school at ArtistWorks.com and is a regular guest at Berklee's Roots Music program. You can take lessons with Darol at artistworks.com/fiddle-lessons-darol-anger. Darol is interested in 5-string violin technology and has built two of his own. Learn more at darolanger.com If you enjoy this podcast, please take a second to like, comment, subscribe, and SHARE this with all your friends. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Jared Burnett is a consummate self-made, full-time professional violinist, touring widely to perform everywhere from night clubs & corporate conventions to Broadway & Carnegie Hall. With influences such as The Charlie Daniel’s Band, Jean Luc Ponty and more mainstream artists such as Boyd Tinsley of the Dave Matthews Band, Jared’s musical style has evolved from classical to include bluegrass and jazz, contemporary and modern rock sounds. In our interview with Jared he discusses how he built a valuable brand. His 6' 5” muscular physique and long blonde hair are instantly recognizable, and his professionalism and engaging musical performances are his calling card. Jared plays Wood Violins 6-String Vipers, Zeta Jazz Fusion violins including his own Jared Burnett Signature Series and the Zeta Boyd Tinsley Signature Series violin, and an Aurora Silhouette Silver LED Electric Violin. Learn more about Jared and book him for your event at jaredviolin.com. Music in this episode is by Jared Burnett. Tracks heard in this episode include: The Arrival Chandelier Greatest Showman Not a Bad Thing Pretty Girl Rock If you enjoy this podcast, please take a second to like, comment, subscribe, and SHARE this with all your friends. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

With performances often described as passionate, vivacious, electrifying, and innovative, Billboard-charting international recording artist Chelsey Green brings the vibrancy of violin and viola playing and unique, rich vocals to worldwide audiences in a whole new way. Dr. Green is an Associate Professor in the String Department at the prestigious Berklee College of Music. She and her ensemble, The Green Project, tear down all stereotypes of the violin and viola by fusing traditional classical technique with popular favorites and enticing original songs in various genres– including R&B, Pop, Soul, Funk, Jazz, Alternative, Hip Hop, Gospel and more! Tracks heard in this episode: Intro: Dr. Funk Break #1: Pizzicato Part III Break #2: Summertime Break #3: Groove Ready Break #4: People Make The World Go Round Break #5: Soundcheck Outro: It's Not What It Seems Learn more about Chelsea and her music at chelseygreen.com and follow her on social media: Instagram – @GreenViolinist Twitter – @GreenViolinist & @GreenProjectTGP Facebook – www.fb.com/greenprojecttgp YouTube – www.youtube.com/chelseygreenproject If you enjoy this podcast, please take a second to like, comment, subscribe, and SHARE this with all your friends. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Cremaine Booker, aka ThatCelloGuy, is a cellist who hails from Dallas, TX. Whether you know it or not, you’ve almost definitely heard Cremaine play.  He was on the new Lion King soundtrack.  He’s recorded with Black Violin, Lauren Daigle, Keb Mo, Sheryl Crow, Michael McDonald and so many more.  He’s performed live with Hans Zimmer, Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, LeAnn Rimes, Chris Stapleton, Martina McBride, and many more. As an outstanding classical player, Cremaine serves as principal cello for the Nashville Philharmonic Orchestra and the Jackson Symphony Orchestra. Tracks heard in this episode: Music from the 'Darksiders: Genesis' video game 'Hallelujah' cover by Matt Bell feat. Cremaine Booker 'Time' by Hans Zimmer from the movie Interstellar 'Petrichor' 'Aya' 'Arrival of the Birds' 'Fly' Visit thatcelloguy.com to learn more about Cremaine and his music. If you enjoy this podcast, please take a second to like, comment, subscribe, and SHARE this with all your friends. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Welcome to another episode of Rockstar Violinist, the podcast from Electric Violin Shop that brings you the biggest stars in the world of electric strings. There may be no bigger star in our world than Lindsey Stirling. From regular appearances on the biggest stages to over 3 billion views on YouTube, she is...everywhere. We recently loaned Lindsey a Viper for what, at the time, was a top secret project. We did this interview a month or so before her Christmas show came out and we’ve been sitting on it so we could share some behind the scenes info. But now we can share it - as well as a really cool look into the mind of one of the most visible people in the violin community, Lindsey Stirling: Rockstar Violinist! Tracks heard in this episode: INTRO - 'Guardian' from the Artemisalbum 10:44 - 'Crystallize' 22:52 - 'Something Wild' from the Disnay film Pete’s Dragon 32:17 - 'Violin Rock' from Lindsey's first ever live dance + violin performance at the Junior Miss Pageant 42:31 - 'Underground' from the Artemisalbum 48:56 - 'Iris' with Johnny Rzeznik of Goo Goo Dolls from Lindsey's String Sessionspodcast 57:10 - 'Til The Light Goes Out' OUTRO - 'Carol of the Bells' Visit lindseystirling.com to hear more music, subscribe to Lindsey's aweseom podcast, and see when her tour schedule is bringing her to a venue near you. If you enjoy this podcast, please take a second to like, comment, subscribe, and SHARE this with all your friends. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

*This is part 1 of our 2-part extended interview with Rachel Barton Pine. Stay tuned for part 2, coming soon!* Rachel Barton Pine is one of the most recognized names on the classical music scene today. She made her debut as a soloist with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra at age 10. Since then, she’s gone on to perform with orchestras all over the world, as well as with many of rock’s biggest names such as Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, and Steve Vai. She performs on the “ex-Bazzini, ex-Soldat” Joseph Guarnerius del Gesu (Cremona, 1742), and when plugging in Rachel plays a 6-string Wood Violins Viper electric violin. Tracks heard in this episode: INTRO - Viola d’amore Concerto in A Minor RV 397 I. Vivace BREAK #1 - STAR SPANGLED BANNER BREAK #2 - Theme and Variations on the Glow of the Lamp - Rachel’s YouTube BREAK #3 - Metallica One - RBP and Mike Block Learn more about Rachel at rachelbartonpine.com. Listen and subscribe to Rachel's wonderful 'Violin Adventures with Rachel Barton Pine' podcast at rachelbartonpine.libsyn.com. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

*This is part 1 of our 2-part extended interview with Rachel Barton Pine. Stay tuned for part 2, coming soon!* Rachel Barton Pine is one of the most recognized names on the classical music scene today. She made her debut as a soloist with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra at age 10. Since then, she’s gone on to perform with orchestras all over the world, as well as with many of rock’s biggest names such as Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, and Steve Vai. She performs on the “ex-Bazzini, ex-Soldat” Joseph Guarnerius del Gesu (Cremona, 1742), and when plugging in Rachel plays a 6-string Wood Violins Viper electric violin. Tracks heard in this episode: INTRO - Blood Drunk - Earthen Grave BREAK #1 - Little Diamond - Bird on the Wing Jigs - Blues Dialogues album BREAK #2 - Dismal Times - Earthen Grave BREAK #3 - Black Sabbath/Ozzy Rock Quartet - Recorded at MWROC, 2013 BREAK #4 - Organic Metal Framework - Solo - Family Fridays with RBP - Nov 13, 2020 Learn more about Rachel at rachelbartonpine.com. Listen and subscribe to Rachel's wonderful 'Violin Adventures with Rachel Barton Pine' podcast at rachelbartonpine.libsyn.com. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Celtic fiddler and award-winning singer-songwriter Kiana June Weber has headlined the largest Celtic festivals in the world. She reached No.1 on the Billboard World Music charts multiple times as a member of Gaelic Storm. She later spent three years touring with the world famous violin troupe, Barrage. Since leaving Barrage to pursue her own career Kiana has toured widely both as a featured soloist with the Grammy-Award-Winning artist Carlos Nunez and in the touring cast of Tony Award Winning musical Come From Away. Learn more about Kiana June and her music at www.kianajune.com. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Violinist Trevor Dick cultivates a successful career as solo artist as well as being a prolific composer/arranger. Trevor's reach extends beyond just playing the violin though. Since 2005, Trevor has acted as a Compassion Canada artist and actively promotes the cause of child poverty at his concerts. He is the founder and artistic director of the non-profit charitable music missionary organization, Flyingbow Music Ministry. Additionally, he is a worldwide ambassador for the electric bowed strings community and is the creator and manager of the growing Electric Strings Players Facebook group. Born in Nigeria to missionary parents, and later growing up on culturally rich Vancouver Island, Trevor benefited from his musical upbringing in the music-soaked city of Nanaimo. Developing relationships and performing with international musicians are career highlights for Trevor. Trevor is an enthusiastic gear head--you can find numerous gear and instrument reviews on his YouTube channel. His main electric instrument is an NS Design CR5 violin, and he uses an earlier generation Cantini violin for MIDI applications. Learn more about Trevor, his music, his ministry and his charitable work at trevordick.com. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Ariella Zeitlin is a world renowned violinist and singer-songwriter, known for her upbeat original style and combining virtuoso classical music with upbeat rock originals. Originally from Baltimore, MD, she moved to Israel at the age of 17 where she quickly became a musical representative of Israel, being flown internationally to represent Israel in performances across the world. She received a MA in violin performance from the Jerusalem Academy of Music, sponsored in part by scholarships from the Israel-America Cultural Foundation, and has hundreds of thousands of views on her YouTube channel. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Daniel Bernard Roumain (DBR) is a prolific and endlessly collaborative composer, performer, educator, and social entrepreneur. Known for his signature violin sounds infused with myriad electronic, urban, and African-American music influences, DBR takes his genre-bending music beyond the proscenium. He is a composer of chamber, orchestral, and operatic works; has won an Emmy for Outstanding Musical Composition for his collaborations with ESPN; featured as keynote performer at technology conferences; and created large scale, site-specific musical events for public spaces. Learn more about DBR and his music at https://www.danielroumain.com/. View show notes with time stamps at https://www.electricviolinshop.com/blog Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Brian King Joseph is a self-taught and self-produced electric violinist who rose to fame in season 13 of America's Got Talent, when he advanced to the finals and finished the competition in 3rd place. BKJ has made a name for himself in the music scene since the age of 4. He has performed with major touring acts such as George Clinton & P Funkadelics, Machine Gun Kelly, He has toured the country with his charting Reggae band Lucky Dub, were personally requested to perform for the Mayor of DC and Supreme Court Justice Sotomayor. He has appeared on hit TV shows such as "MTV Real World" and several commercials. In 2012, he was offered a Full Presidential Scholarship at the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA. ​BKJ consistently collaborates with lifestyle brands, independent designers, and event programmers for both sponsored and private events such as weddings (reception & ceremony), ribbon-cutting events, club openings, private parties etc ​ Brian King Joseph composes and produces all of his music independently. Learn more about BKJ at https://www.briankingjoseph.com. Music heard in this episode: Intro: Brian’s first televised audition for AGT Everything I Wanted - Billie Eilish Cover - Brian’s YT channel BKJ and Lindsey Stirling performance on AGT Centuries - Fall Out Boy Cover - AGT Lucid Dreams - Juice Wrld Cover - Brian’s YT channel Finals Performance on AGT Semi-Finals Performance on AGT Spark - Original Track by BKJ Rebellion - Original Track by BKJ Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Even if you haven't heard the name Jimmy Mattingly you've probably heard his incredible playing as a touring and recording fiddler for some of the biggest Country acts of all time, including Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, Brooks and Dunn, Garth Brooks, Rascal Flats, Keith Urban, [pause for breath], Reba McEntire, and Trisha Yearwood...to name a few! In addition to supporting some of the biggest acts in music, Jimmy and some of his best friends from the Bluegrass Music world formed a band back in 2003 called The Grascals, who won 2 Grammy Nominations, 2 Entertainers Of The Year awards at the International Bluegrass Music Association, as well as the Emerging Artist Award and Song Of The Year award. Currently you can catch Jimmy on tour with Garth Brooks along with Trisha Yearwood. Jimmy uses Warm Audio microphones and preamps. You can read his full artist bio at https://warmaudio.com/artist-jimmy-mattingly/. Songs heard in this episode: 0:00:00 - "Fever" from Garth: Live from Central Park 0:12:15 - "Me and John and Paul" by The Grascals 0:24:00 - "Halos and Horns" by Dolly Parton 0:35:18 - "Amarillo by Morning" with Garth Brooks 0:42:51 - "Callin' Baton Rouge" with Garth Brooks 1:00:00 - "Sally Goodin" with The Grascals 1:08:10 - "Consider Me Gone" with Reba McEntire 1:23:48 - "Stairway to Heaven" with Dolly Parton Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

"Oh, s@#!" ... That's what these performers said when disaster struck their gigs. This episode of the Rockstar Violinist podcast (NSFW: language) is a compilation of new stories from a dozen of our past interview guests as well as one from our host, Matt Bell. Some of these anecdotes will make you laugh out loud while others may induce anxiety among listeners who perform. The good news is that no rock star violinists were harmed and all have lived to tell their tales. Storyteller / featured track: Joe Deninzon/Parallel Reality Tracy Silverman/Sidewalk Vigil Abby Stahlschmidt/LOVE YOU Ross Holmes/Say Old Man, Allentown Polka, Arkansas Traveler Rob Flax/Procrastinator’s Blues, Send Me The Recipe RazzVio/All Along the Watchtower Matt Bell/Abaga Lars Thorson/Loretta Ben Karas/Celestial Supremacy Sarah Charness/CRYORHYTHMIC Kev Marcus/Showoff Chuck Bontrager/SoberTrip Martha Mooke/No Ordinary Window Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Kishi Bashi is the pseudonym of singer, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter Kaoru Ishibashi. Kaoru studied film scoring at Berklee College of Music before becoming a renowned violinist. Kishi Bashi is also the singer and founding member of the New York electronic rock outfit, Jupiter One. In 2011, he started to record and perform as a solo artist, opening for Sondre Lerche, Alexi Murdoch, and of Montreal. He supported of Montreal on their spring 2012 tour. Shortly after Ishibashi debuted his full-length solo album "151a" on Indianapolis label Joyful Noise Recordings, NPR All Songs Considered host Bob Boilen listed Kishi Bashi as his favorite new artist of 2012 noting that he created "a radiant, uplifting soundscape" with songs such as "Bright Whites." Kishi Bashi has since been invited to play in major festivals such as SXSW and Austin City Limits and gone on an extensive US tour with supporting acts such as The Last Bison (from his native Hampton Roads, Virginia). In early 2013, Kishi Bashi held a North American tour across the United States and Canada, continuing in EU and UK in spring 2013. In 2014 Kishi Bashi released his own line of coffee through Jittery Joe's called Royal Daark Blend. Each purchase comes with an exclusive song download. 2016 saw Kishi Bashi release his new album "Sonderlust" live on NPR's All Songs Considered. His latest album Omoiyari was released May 31st and available on all platforms. Learn more at www.kishibashi.com. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

This episode of Electric Violins Shop's "Rockstar Violinist" podcast features one of our own--EVS staff cellist Shana Tucker! Sadly, we don't see as much of Shana in the shop as we'd like to these days, but that's only because as an in-demand performer, recording artist and educator she is practically always booked! Above and beyond playing the cello, Shana is also a talented singer-songwriter. With a deep respect for lyrical storytelling, she delivers a unique voice through her self-described genre of ChamberSoul™. Shana's melodies weave strong hints of jazz, classical, soulful folk, acoustic pop and a touch of R&B into a distinctive rhythmic tapestry. An NPR interview about Shana's debut CD, "SHiNE" and her ChamberSoul style prompted an invitation from Cirque du Soleil to join the company as cellist/vocalist for their show, KÀ in Las Vegas, where she stayed and performed for five years before returning to North Carolina.Shana is currently a featured artist performing with legendary jazz saxophonist/composer Bennie Maupin; jazz drummer/composer Shirazette Tinnin and Sonic WallPaper; Grammy-nominated NuSoul collective, The Foreign Exchange. Her newest project, Women's Work, a female-led collective of jazz, soul and pop singer-songwriters and musicians representing both east and west coasts. Having opened for internationally-acclaimed artists including Norah Jones, Lisa Fischer, Sweet Honey in the Rock, Hamiet Bluett, Javon Jackson, the Blind Boys of Alabama, and Indigo Girls, Shana's vocals and cello are featured on several studio and live recording projects by both independent and signed label artists and producers. She also devotes a considerable amount of her time to working with students in schools & universities, community centers and summer camps throughout the year as part of her mission to promote arts education programming for students of all ages. Shana Tucker is an NS Design artist and plays a 'US5' 5-string electric cello, which is the US-made predecessor to their current CR5 model. You can learn more about her at shanatucker.com. Music heard in this episode: Intro Music - "The Precious Ones” from the Shine album "No Get Back" from the Shine album "Be Still My Beating Heart" - from YouTube "In the Moment" - Single "What’s Love Got To Do With It" - Single "November" from the Shine album "Shine" from the Shine album Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Dr. David Wallace is a fiercely eclectic musician, award-winning composer, and master teaching artist who currently serves as Chair of the String Department of Berklee College of Music. Known for his mastery of eclectic styles ranging from all classical genres to fiddling, rock, and free jazz, David has also gained widespread acclaim for his ability to connect with audiences in diverse community settings, including schools, hospitals, psychiatric facilities, houses of worship, and prisons. Symphony magazine hails his book Engaging the Concert Audience: A Musician’s Guide to Interactive Performance (Berklee Press), as “an invaluable manual for all musicians, classical or otherwise.” Learn more about David Wallace at docwallacemusic.com. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Matt Vanacoro is one of New York’s premier musicians and an expert at studio music recording production. With a strong understanding of technology for today’s modern musician, Matt is able to utilize the latest equipment and software to make his rig work for any situation. Experienced in both hardware synthesizers and software-based samples, Matt is able to call up the perfect sound every time. In this interview Matt discusses recording, music technology, and content creation with a focus on information specific to bowed strings players, with whom he has a lot of experience recording and producing. Learn more about Matt at www.mattvanacoro.com. Intro – Groove by Matt Vanacoro 1:10 - Why are we interviewing a non-violinist? 4:35 – Forefront of tech for years. Content creation and how tech is relevant for string players in 2019 6:38 – What advice would you give string players who are wanting to get into content creation? 12:10 – BREAK – Vulcan Worlds by Mark Wood 12:10 – You have to know what you know and know what you don’t know 14:50 – Mixing my CD – you were so fast with mixing this stuff.  I can tell you’ve spent a lot of time on that gear. 17:00 – BREAK – Exile by Matt Bell 17:00 – How to record an acoustic. 32:32 – BREAK – Long Time with Chuck Bontrager 32:32 – Know Your Gear 35:02 – What mic or gear would you recommend? 42:28 – BREAK – Hot Water 42:28 - Sponsorships 57:10 – BREAK – It’s All Good by Matt Bell 57:10 – Advice for young string players OUTRO – Groove by Matt Vanacoro Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Born in Nashville, TN, Lars began playing fiddle at age six. He started gigging around Nashville at age fifteen and by seventeen was working the Broadway circuit. He studied violin performance formally at Berklee College of Music before returning to Nashville to pursue a career as a touring musician. In addition to fiddle, Lars plays banjo, mandolin, acoustic guitar, Dobro, resonator guitar, electric guitar, baritone guitar, and sings background harmonies. His Nashville success can be attributed in part to his versatility--he's comfortable as both a rhythm and lead player, live or in the studio, and can help to create textures and sounds for artists when recording and recreate those studio sounds in a live performance situation. To learn more about Lars and his music, visit www.larsthorson.com. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Cassandra Sotos is a 7-string Viper electric violinist, acoustic violinist, fiddler, mandolin player, guitarist, singer, songwriter, and recording artist. Cassandra can be seen touring all over the world performing styles including pop, rock, and country. She began her musical journey at the age of 4 when she first picked up a violin and has been playing professionally since she was 15; touring worldwide and performing a wide range of styles including rock, country, classical, pop and electronica. Cassandra is currently stepping to center stage and is writing and recording her debut solo EP! Cassandra is an emerging leader in the violin/strings world and has been featured several times in publications including Strings Magazine for her achievements and dedication to the growth of the art and community. She is an active member and leader of the Women in Music organization and seeks to empower other young musicians and songwriters, especially female students, through her own hard work and success. Learn more about Cassandra at www.cassandrasotos.com. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Redefining the role of the violin in contemporary music, Tracy Silverman has contributed significantly to the repertoire and development of the 6-string electric violin and what he calls “post-classical violin playing.” Formerly first violinist with the innovative Turtle Island String Quartet, Silverman was named one of 100 distinguished alumni by The Juilliard School. A concert electric violinist, Silverman is the subject of several electric violin concertos composed specifically for him by Pulitzer winner John Adams, “Father of Minimalism” Terry Riley, Nico Muhly and Kenji Bunch, as well as the composer of 3 electric violin concertos of his own. A long-standing advocate for music education, Silverman is the author of The Strum Bowing Method, is an in-demand clinician and on the string faculty at Belmont University in Nashville, TN. Learn more about Tracy at tracysilverman.com. Tracks heard in this episode: 3rd Stone from the Sun I Wish 7 steps to heaven Bach Redux Matisse Who Do We Think We Are But Not for Me Europa Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Rob Flax is an award-winning multi-instrumentalist, composer, and educator with a playful heart and an open mind. He has performed nationally and internationally with groups of many different styles, including opening for B.B. King and Tower of Power, playing viola and violin with the Trans Siberian Orchestra and YouTube star Jacob Collier, upright bass in an Argentine tango ensemble, mandolin and fiddle in various bluegrass bands, electric violin in several rock bands, collaborations with modern dancers, and more. As a composer Rob has written music for choreographers, film (including work on the soundtrack of James Franco’s film As I Lay Dying), and several original projects. Rob is a graduate of the New England Conservatory and he currently lives in Boston, MA. Learn more about Rob’s music at www.robflax.com. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Known primarily for his work as a performer, composer and orchestrator in New Jersey based bands Thank You Scientist and Windfaerer, Ben Karas is a violinist with classical training whose drive as a musician has been fueled by his passion for louder and more extreme types of music. He is a versatile player who is able to utilize the violin in wide range of musical settings; from orchestral or chamber music to fusion rock, from acoustic rock to metal. Learn more about Ben’s music at www.benkaras.com Tracks heard in this episode: Intro: Dawn of Phantom Light  - Windfaerer Swarm - Thank You Scientist Blooded Shore - Windfaerer Chromology - Thank You Scientist Anchor - Thank You Scientist Journey - Windfaerer Under the Sign of Sol - Windfaerer Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Violist Drew Alexander Forde, known online as ThatViolaKid, has a reputation not only as an accomplished performer but also as one of classical music’s most recognizable online brands. Forde maintains an active performing and recording career. In classical settings, he is a seasoned chamber musician, orchestral player, and soloist. Also highly sought after in popular music, Forde has shared the stage with A-List stars like Alicia Keys, Camila Cabello, Lindsey Stirling, Evanescence, and Josh Groban, among others, and has recording credits with the late Mac Miller on The Divine Feminine. He has also performed on several big-budget video game soundtracks and his own studio releases. Learn more about Drew's music at http://thatviolakid.com and follow him on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook as @ThatViolaKid. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Greg Byers is a jazz cellist, a top-notch performer, a fantastic composer, an amazing singer, and a highly sought teacher. He begin cello at a very young age through the Suzuki method. By age sixteen, he was a talented cellist, but was frustrated with the lack of personal expression he found in youth orchestras. This led Greg to explore the possibilities of the cello in a jazz context. As a music major at University of Miami he was initially denied admission to the Studio Music & Jazz program because he was a cellist. He persevered and eventually became the first person to double major in Instrumental Performance/Studio Music & Jazz on cello and bass. As a performer, Greg enjoys balancing technical prowess and improvisation freedom. As a composer, he strives for melodies that reach the layman, and harmonies that challenge the stereotypes of Western popular music. As an educator, Greg is passionate about helping students avoid the pitfalls of traditional music instruction, with the student truncated from any sort of creativity or expression. Rather, Greg works to bring out the creative potential residing in every student by integrating improvisation, theory, and ear training into his pedagogy. Greg plays an NS Design CR electric cello. Learn more about Greg and his music at www.cellogreg.com. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Rudolf Haken is a violist, composer, and professor of music internationally renowned for his creative melding of disparate musical styles and genres. He is particularly known for his work with extended-range violas, appearing in concert on four continents with his five-string Rivinus viola and six-string Wood Violins Viper electric viola. Haken is Professor of Viola at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign as well as Founder and Director of the University of Illinois Electric Strings program, which offers a Bachelor of Arts in Electric Strings! Learn more about Professor Haken's music and Electric Strings studies at the U. of Illinois by visiting rudolfhaken.com/electric. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

We've interviewed a lot of great string players so far, and it seems almost every one of them has a nightmare story about losing their instrument. This show, The Lost Episode, is a compilation of just some of those stories from Patrick Contreras (1:31), Ross Holmes (6:50), Joe Deninzon (17:10), Val Vigoda (22:14), Jesús Florido (26:31), Dr. David Wallace (31:57), Sarah Charness (42:09), Scott Laird (46:00), and Haydn Vitera (52:01). Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Chuck Bontrager is the very definition of the the versatile 21st-century violinist: classically trained, yet experienced in multiple performance styles, and fluent in several variations of his instrument including viola, chin-cello, mandolin and mandola, and especially his 7-string Wood Violins Viper electric violin. Chuck currently serves as Concertmaster of the Chicago company of Hamilton: An American Musical. He has performed in over twenty other productions on the Broadway In Chicago series as well as with countless pop, rock and heavy metal bands, and numerous Chicago-area classical ensembles. In addition, he teaches at Columbia College Chicago and the Merit School of Music, and is a faculty member at the annual Mark Wood Rock Orchestra Camp (MWROC) where he joins a world-class group of performers and teachers, including Mark Wood, Rachel Barton Pine, David Wallace, and Tracy Silverman, in helping future generations find their creative voice. To learn more about Chuck and his music visit chuckbontrager.com. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Award-winning cross-genre violinist Bar Markovich is taking the electric violin to places it's never been before. No seriously, he's taken his Viper parasailing! As one of Israel's most promising young musicians, his latest solo work has led to a host of commercial successes which included performances for the BBC and other well-known media outlets. Born in Israel in 1991, Bar began studying the violin at age 6 and was a member of the Young Israel Philharmonic Orchestra and the Jerusalem Music Center program for outstanding young musicians. He graduated the Royal College of Music - London. Bar’s recent original work has led to worldwide acclaim, winning a GoPro Award and performing at high profile events in Europe and USA. To learn more about Bar and his music visit barmarkovich.com. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Scott Laird is an electric violinist, recording artist and nationally renowned strings educator. He is also well-known for his electric violin work with the thrash metal band, Believer. He has shared the stage with other well known artists including Dave Brubeck, Lost in the Trees, Mike Marshall, Joey Calderazzo, Jon Metzger, and others. Scott is an Instructor of Music and Fine Arts Coordinator at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics where he directs the orchestra and teaches courses in Recording Technology. He is nationally visible as an Education Specialist for D’Addario Strings, NS Design Violins, and CodaBow, where he is a noted as an authority on string education, electric and MIDI string instruments and their applications in the classroom. To learn more about Scott's music and pedagogy visit www.scottlaird.net. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Zach Brock is a Grammy Award-winning violinist and composer whose music evokes the spirits of John Coltrane, Béla Bartók, and Jimi Hendrix. He has been recognized for his "soaring lyricism, audacious ingenuity, and masterful command of the instrument." Downbeat Magazine named Zach it's 'Rising Star Violinist' of 2013. Besides fronting his own critically acclaimed projects, Zach has recorded and toured all over the world with Snarky Puppy, Stanley Clarke, and Phil Markowitz. Learn more about Zach, his music, and upcoming projects and performances at zachbrock.com. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Classically trained from age 4, Abigail Stahlschmidt started to explore alternative styles in her early teens. At that point she started fiddling for almost any band that would have her and delved into everything from Country to Rock to Jazz to Contemporary Christian. Since then, Abigail has joined many artists and bands on stage and in the studio. Her discography includes recording on albums like TransSiberian Orchestra guitarist- Christopher Caffrey’s “Your Heaven is Real” and her own EP collaboration with Eric Strothers entitled “ The Merge: Subliminal Intent.” Abigail’s music has been featured on the soundtrack of full feature film “Four Color Eulogy” and her voice-over work can be heard as the voice of Lara Croft in Lara Croft: Relic Run for iOS and Android. Abigail recently received the endorsement of Mark Wood and now joins his Artist roster alongside world-class Wood Violins instrument players. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Adventurous cellist Amanda Gookin champions the future of music through bold performances of new works, and a dedication to education, culture, and community engagement. She is the co-founder of the innovative string quartet, PUBLIQuartet, specializing in new music performance and improvisation. Amanda serves on faculty at Mannes School of Music and SUNY Purchase, leading courses on career development and women in music and was a speaker on music and activism at TEDx MidAtlantic. Her initiative, the Forward Music Project, commissions new works for solo cello by today’s forward-thinking composers that explore the female experience and encourage social change for women and girls. Learn more about Amanda and find his music at www.amandagookin.com. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Since launching his solo career in 2005, former Asleep At The Wheel fiddle player and Austin Latino Rocker/Electric Violinist HAYDN VITERA has made his mark sharing the stage with headliners as diverse as Grammy winners Los Lonely Boys, Rock En Español pioneers Los Enanitos Verdes and 80’s rock legends Dokken. His music has been featured in various on-screen projects including Robert Rodriguez’s From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series. VITERA has been featured on stage with the legendary George Strait and the iconic Stevie Wonder and most recently, has joined the Electrify Your Strings program as an Artist Mentor, traveling nationwide to empower and expand the horizons of middle school and high school orchestra students along with program creator Mark Wood. Learn more about Haydn and find his music at www.viterarocks.com. Tracks heard in this episode: “That’s Just La Vida” - Vitera - Tequila Rock EP “Que Pasara” - Vitera - Tequila Rock EP “El Cascabel” - Tequila Rock Revolution - Single “Poison and Wine” - Vitera - Tequila Rock EP “Livin for the Ride” - Vitera - Tequila Rock EP “La Vibora” - Vitera - Subete album “iTeWatcho” - Vitera - Tequila Rock EP Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Acclaimed for her electrifying performances and compositions, pioneering composer/electro-acoustic violist, Martha Mooke transcends musical boundaries, enhancing her classical training and expertise with extended techniques, digital effects processing and improvisation. A Yamaha Artist and leading clinician on electric and progressive string playing, she has toured with Barbra Streisand, Peter Gabriel, Andrea Bocelli and Star Wars in Concert and has performed or recorded with Elton John, David Bowie, Trey Anastasio, Lou Reed, Iggy Pop, Laurie Anderson, Tony Bennett, Bon Jovi, Patti Smith, Damon Albarn, Blur and many others. Learn more about Martha and find her music at http://www.marthamooke.com. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice. Photo credit: Tina Fineberg, New York Times

Ginny Luke has played and recorded with artists including Foo Fighters, Brittany Spears, Nicki Minaj, Snoop Dog, Dave Matthews, Ricky Martin, Meatloaf and Iggy Azalea to name only a few. As a classically trained violinist Ginny has held concertmaster positions in eight orchestras. Not only is she an incredibly accomplished violinist, she is an amazing singer and songwriter as well, and has released her own singles, music videos, and a solo EP called ‘Dark Charade’. Learn more about Ginny at ginnyluke.com. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Jesús Florido’s knowledge and experience in modern violin is nearly unparalleled. In addition to classical violin performance, he also has studied Afro-Cuban, Jazz, Rock, and Fiddle music, which - combined with his Latin American roots - has produced a unique and eclectic vision of music interpretation. Jesús has shared the stage with a wide variety of artists from Zubin Metha, Pinchas Zukermann and Itzhak Perlman to Whitney Houston, Moody Blues, Robert Plant and Jimmy Page among many others. With his recent debut solo recording, Heading North, Jesús introduces a compelling artistry balanced on a fine axis of musical virtuosity and pure heart. Learn more about Jesús at jesusflorido.com or @latinfiddler on social media. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice. Track list: • Heading North – Heading North album – Jesus Florido • Black Pool - Heading North album – Jesus Florido • Mi Negra - Heading North album – Jesus Florido • Ultra - Heading North album – Jesus Florido • Division – Nima Collective • Take Me Down – Nima Collective • Con Todo - Heading North album – Jesus Florido

Patrick Contreras has branded his unique style of violin playing with influences of Blues, EDM, Rock and Hip Hop. He's opened for artists like BB King, Al Jarreau, Stanley Clarke and others, has been featured on WorldStarHipHop three times as ‘Talent Of The Week’ and has well over a million views on YouTube! Patrick’s latest project, which he calls “El Violin,” mixes the sound of violin with mariachi, rock, soul and hip-hop. He sat down with Matt to discuss his musical style and the new directions his violin playing is taking him. Learn more about Patrick at patrickcontreras.com and be sure to check out his YouTube channel! Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Razzvio is an electric violinist and singer who reinvents familiar pop and rock arrangements from an entirely different angle. Through live looping, she blends powerhouse vocals with her unique violin designed to build songs with the sophistication of a string quartet. This episode is sponsored by Wood Violins, makers of the famous Viper electric violin and its patented self-supporting Chest Support System. Razz performs on a 6-string Viper, which allows her to sing and play at the same time and encompasses the range of a violin, viola, and cello! Learn more about Razz and book her for a show at www.razzvio.com. Shop the full line of Wood Violins at elecvioln.shop/2J8f9Lq. Photo credit: Manny Espinoza Music heard in this episode: • Intro: "Tide Is Rising" - Direct Divide • “Called Out” - BlowUpDollz • “Down the Road” - Take Powell • “Particles” - Razzvio • “Feeling Good - Live in Monterey” - Razz - fromYouTube • “Kick It” - Direct Divide • “Crossroads” - Razz - from YouTube • “Here Comes the Rain” - Razzvio • “All Along the Watchtower” - Razzvio

Derryck Gleaton, better known as DSharp, is an American violinist, DJ, singer and producer based in Los Angeles. Known for his trademark colorful violins, he writes his own music as well as performs cover versions of popular songs, focusing on hip hop, electronic dance music and classical pieces. DSharp has played in clubs around the world, where he has performed with Smokey Robinson, American DJ Kaskade, Dutch DJs Afrojack, Chuckie, Nicky Romero and R3hab, and Swedish DJ Sebastian Ingrosso. He has played with The Dave Matthews Tribute Band, and on four tracks of rapper Rick Ross's album ‘God Forgives, I Don’t.’ Follow @whoisdsharp on Instagram and at youtube.com/iamdsharp. Find upcoming dates at www.whoisdsharp.com. Rockstar Violinist is the Electric Violin Shop podcast, hosted by Matt Bell and featuring interviews with the most creative and noteworthy electric strings performing and recording artists. Electric Violin Shop is the world leader in amplified strings. Shop at www.electricviolinshop.com or contact us at info@electricviolinshop.com for advice.

Daniela Padrón is a Venezuelan-American violinist, nominated to the Latin Grammy (2013) as the violinist of the acclaimed Venezuelan world music band Gaêlica, in the Folk Music Category. Daniela released her first soloist album "Bach to Venezuela" in May 2016, where she adapts some of the most well known masterpieces of Johann Sebastian Bach into different Venezuelan Folk Rhythms including joropo, gaita, merengue among others. Daniela is a proud Conductor for one of the children orchestras of the Miami Music Project, an institution that uses music as a tool for social transformation. She also runs her private studio with local and international students in Miami, Florida. Along with her mother, the renowned Venezuelan pianist Olga López, she is in the recording process to release (in the second half of 2018) a duet album (violin-piano) that would feature Latin American academic composers. Learn more about Daniela at her website, www.danielapadron.com. 'Rockstar Violinist' is presented by Electric Violin Shop, the world leader in amplified strings! Contact EVS for personalized gear recommendations or shop online at www.electricviolinshop.com.

With a background in classical violin, Alex Depue developed an amazing ability to turn on a dime towards bluegrass fiddling, jazz, rock, and/or any improvisational style available to the instrument, resulting in surprisingly eclectic musical career. He won youth classical violin competitions, is a highly decorated fiddle champion, and for three years went toe-to-toe with rock guitar virtuoso Steve Vai in the latter's World Tour band! Follow Alex on Facebook and you'll be treated to virtuosic solo violin arrangements of pop and rock songs. Among his most popular videos are his arrangements of "Take On Me" by A-ha and "Owner Of A Lonely Heart" by Yes. Aside from extensive touring and teaching, Alex DePue spends his spare time as a record producer, and with his established OVNI Studio, he will record on any project, turning his addition to a track within 24 hours! You can learn more about Alex at www.alexdepue.com. This episode is sponsored by Glasser Bows, makers of the fantastic new Glasser Carbon Fiber Acoustic-Electric violins, which Alex DePue plays and even tested throughout their development! Glasser violins are available at www.ElectricViolinShop.com.

“Val Vigoda is a compact bundle of talent. She plays a strapped-on electric violin like a demon. She sings with a voice that pushes the walls into expanded dimensions. She acts with great charm.” This is how drama critic David Finkle opens his HuffPost review of our guest’s rock musical ’Ernest Shackleton Loves Me.’ An electric violinist, singer, writer, former Army lieutenant, and founding member of the band GrooveLily, Val has toured the world with Cyndi Lauper, Joe Jackson and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, and is now launching her solo live-looping multimedia project, Just Getting Good. In this episode, sponsored by Wood Violins, Val and Matt—both Viper players—sat down to discuss her projects, her unique theatrical approach to the electric violin, and her proficiency as a singer/player and complex live looper. Learn more about Val's current and past projects at https://www.valvigoda.com/ Special thanks to Wood Violins, makers of the Viper, for their sponsorship of this episode. Visit https://www.electricviolinshop.com to shop our selection of instruments and gear. Music heard in this episode: •Intro music: “Just Getting Good” from the Album “Just Getting Good” by Val Vigoda •Opening Number from Ernest Shackleton Loves Me: video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bIOWm2XUD2Y •Apocalyptic Love Song (I Don’t Care) - Groovelily •Striking 12 at 54 Below - video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PniqNsBpHXg •Money and Musicians - preview track from the upcoming Cast Album “Ernest •Shackleton Loves Me" •Outro music: “This Sucks (from Ernest Shackleton Loves Me)” from the Album “Just Getting Good” by Val Vigoda

As a solo cellist Jenn Cornell delivers a progressive groove oriented experience through intricately spun looped compositions. You may have heard her music before--she was half of the genre-bending fusion duo Montana Skies, whose music was featured on the Travel Channel and NPR. These days Jenn records in her Atlanta studio and can be seen performing at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the world's busiest airport! Jenn's playing is equal parts music and performance art, as she emotes a true joy for life where rhythm and movement become a dance of instrument and body. Learn more about Jenn at www.jenncello.com/. If you enjoyed this interview, please subscribe to Rockstar Violinist on your favorite listening platform, and be sure to check out www.electricviolinshop.com for great products and information.

Since establishing himself as a world-class jazz violinist, Christian Howes has also become an in-demand composer, producer and educator. He has played Lincoln Center, been a professor at Berklee School of Music and has served as a cultural ambassador at the invitation of the U.S. State Department. He is the founder of the annual Creative Strings Workshop, which began in his hometown of Columbus, Ohio and is now branching out into multiple locations. He travels the globe to educate music students about how to become creative with their music as well as teaches aspiring professionals how to earn a living doing what they love through his Music Biz Mastermind courses. Tracks heard in this podcast: Intro: Just a Closer Walk - American Spirit Album 16:18 - Amazing - American Spirit Album 24:00 - America - American Spirit Album 28:40 - Invasion of the Forest - Heartfelt Album 35:17 - Christian Howes and Les Paul - YouTube Video 44:38 - American Spirit - Americaan Spirit Album 1:06:04 - Postlude - Live in the Studio 1:13:55 - Postlude - American Spirit Album Christian Howes is a Yamaha artist and plays an SV-250 violin. Please listen and subscribe to his fantastic "Creative Strings Podcast."

**Note: This version of the interview with Earl Maneein contains bleeped words. If you are not sensitive to language feel free to seek out the uncensored version of the interview on our SoundCloud page.** While a versatile violinist comfortable in styles ranging from classical to bluegrass, jazz, rock Earl Maneein pursues his artistic voice in what he refers to extreme music! Earl is both inventive, having pioneered highly specific bow techniques for playing drop tuned metal on his custom extended range Jordan electric violin, and highly creative, composing songs and pieces in many genres, including rock, metal, string quartet and even a violin concerto, which was premiered by Rachel Barton Pine! Earl's current projects include the experimental grindcore/metal duo Black Heart Sutra, and his new music/hardcore crossover string quartet SEVEN)SUNS, (sevensunsmusic.com) whose album, "For The Hearts Still Beating" was released on Party Smasher Inc. in June of 2017. The latest Black Heart Sutra album, "Zersetzung" is out now on Stillwater Recordings. He has been featured in The Strad, Strings Magazine, Vice, and Guitar World and has recorded, played and or collaborated with such varied artists and groups as Jay-Z, Florence+The Machine, Paul Weller of The Jam, Rhianna, Blood Has Been Shed, Albert Hammond Jr. of the Strokes, The Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company, Sean Lennon, Janet Biggs, Blake Fleming (Mars Volta), The Dillinger Escape Plan and Alicia Keys, among others. Hear more of Earl's music at earlmaneeinmusic.com. Jordan violins and other great gear that will take your playing to extreme levels are available at electricviolinshop.com.

Sarah Charness, known on Instagram as @sarahpinkviolin, has done everything with her custom Pink 6-string Viper from playing the halftime of NBA games to performing with huge acts including Trans Siberian Orchestra, The Chainsmokers, the Jonas Brothers, and Sigala. Her vibrant, physically thrilling live performances bring to life her musical blend of of classical, pop and electronic dance music (EDM). Find Sarah on Instagram or visit www.sarahcharness.com. You can customize and order a Wood Violins Viper in pink or any number of other colors at www.electricviolinshop.com.

Ned Steinberger, inventor of the headless Steinberger basses and guitars that became quite famous in the 1980s, founded his current company NS Design in 1990 with a primary focus on bowed instruments – the violin, viola, cello and double bass. Ned explains, “Bowed electric instruments have been made since the mid-thirties. Unfortunately, most of these instruments are the victims of the misplaced idea that an electric instrument should sound exactly like its acoustic predecessor. I want to take it a step further, I want to see what these instruments can do when they are set free.” We hope you enjoy Matt Bell's conversation with this instrument design genius and trailblazer in the bowed strings field. Follow our podcast on SoundCloud or subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher or Google Play music. The full line of NS Design instruments is available at electricviolinshop.com.