Kickstarter

(See it to the end to get the best part - the outtakes!)

You won't even know it's classical

My goal is to get everyone who likes good music into classical music. I got into it as a teenager because the music is incredible. Pure acoustic bliss. In my 20 years of performing, I've come across some real zingers, and some real snoozers. In programming concerts of my own, I've learned how to create a buzz at shows with just the right combination of repertoire, instruments, and musicians. Unplugged will be the first show of my new group called The Orchestra, on May 25th in Portland, Oregon. Music from the 18th to the 21st century will be woven into a conceptually varied and entertaining show. Vivaldi, Shostakovich, Arvo Pärt, and Brahms will make for a moving (sometimes thrashing) concert destined to make the audience rethink what classical music is. Visit theorchestra.com for more info.

Why help?

Classical music is in trouble, and I really believe I have a solution. In the years to come, I will be expanding and reaching out to new audiences by ways of technology (sound, lights, video screens), programming (no snoozers), and a small but stellar group of musicians, capable of carrying their talents around the world, showing people that classical music can in fact be a great show. If I were rich, I'd simply fund it myself, and that would be that. Sadly, I'm not, and need your help. As you can see, there are plenty of rewards for your pledge at all levels. But more than anything tangible, help me spread the love of great music. People deserve it. The music deserves it.

All funds will go to concert production (musicians, video crew) and media (DVD production).

Your Rewards

From original T-shirts to signed DVDs to live house concerts (Dueling Fiddles, anyone?) to real violin bow hairs, you can't go wrong. For me, the real winner is going to be the photo prints from Portland photo artist Kate Prentiss, who does incredible photo portraits printed on vibrant metallic paper that make the image pop to life. It's gonna be gorgeous!