Welcome to Spectrum Sessions!

Combining forces with two of the world's top 'alternative styles' violinists, this innovative and groundbreaking educational program has been put together to encourage and educate string players of all ages and levels to a whole new world of string playing. Ben (jazz) and Ivonne (fiddle) are highly trained classical violinists and Suzuki [method] trained, but have ventured off the path exploring Jazz and Celtic and many other different fiddle styles. They are both internationally touring musicians in their respective styles, but share a common love for teaching and sharing their knowledge in a fun and effective way.

Trained as classical violinists, Ben and Ivonne specialize in relating classical technique to playing other styles on a string instrument. While linguistically the styles are different, much of the technique used to execute them well, is very much the same. Ben and Ivonne believe the key to accessing other styles on a string instrument, is to approach the style using the same rules associated with good classical playing – concern for intonation, articulation, tone production and control of tone color.

They essentially teach jazz & fiddle styles using two components, language and technique. In methodical steps, each component is practiced independently and then together, to ensure command of the material and an understanding of how they interact to create the particular style on the instrument.

Using basic classical techniques and ensemble playing, Ben and Ivonne provide string players with a variety of contemporary playing techniques, styles and pieces in different genres. Participation in learning through experimentation both in a group setting as well as individual attention is encouraged. And finally, performance practice both at home and in a group setting utilizing the learned techniques are put to practice in a final concert resulting in a well rounded 'Spectrum' of all that a string player needs to know!

Both Ivonne and Ben have been teaching for many years and have received critical acclaim by music educators, students, and media. Now combining forces, this young power duo is a breath of fresh air for the string world. Sparking some new energy and ideas to string players, inspiring practices and experimenting with the 'Spectrum' that all stringed instrument can do!