Linzi Stoppard and Ben Levi have been playing our violins for a number of years, and we’re very excited they have come together to form their new electric violin duo, ‘Fuse’. In support of their work with the CLIC Sargent charity, we are making two stunning gold custom violins for their performances with Fuse, and winners of the Share-a-Stage competition. What a fantastic opportunity for the winner of this competition to play onstage with these two outstanding violinists at Glastonbury.
After graduating from the RCM Ben played sessions with a wide range of artists as well as putting together his own bands to experiment and develop his eclectic sound.
Unbeknown to Ben, running in parallel was an emerging electric violinist, Linzi Stoppard, with an unequalled ambition to broaden the instrument’s appeal and make it accessible to a more mainstream audience.
Linzi was looking for a collaborator to help bring her vision and sound to life. Her manager (and husband) Will put the word out to a few of his old music clients and was quickly directed to one of Ben’s bands who had played a session for a producer Will used to manage.
The violinists met and the bond was instant - not only did Linzi and Ben share a limitless imagination, their musicianship and look complimented each other as well. Ben’s portable studio was another crucial element Will needed to realise their potential - they could record their ideas and sessions anywhere and at any time. In the autumn of 2007 FUSE, the electric violin duo was formed and they got to work immediately.
When Linzi and Ben started on their new and modern sound, the key was not to be afraid to take inspiration from their classical roots while combining it with modern well known melodies. They weren’t satisfied with being just another cross-over strings act; they wanted and believed it was possible to narrow the gap between the classical and pop audiences, young and old.
In late 2007 their unique approach and position was noticed by children’s charity CLIC Sargent who was looking for a contemporary act, but one with ties to classical music, to support and front their “Practice-A-Thon” campaign in 2008. FUSE ticked all the right boxes.
The campaign aims to inspire kids to pick up an instrument and practice. 25% of the money raised goes back to the participants' schools and 75% to CLIC Sargent.
To promote the “Practice-A-thon” campaign FUSE are launching “Share A Stage” – young people aged from 13-24 can submit a video on Youtube of themselves or their band performing and a judging panel will decide on a winner. The lucky victor will play live with FUSE at Glastonbury 2008.
FUSE are currently in the studio recording their debut album.
www.myspace.com/fusemusic |
