Julia McConahay has been playing violin professionally for the past eight years while moving between Detroit, New York City, and Madison, WI. She is a seasoned performer having participated in multiple orchestral/string and vocal ensembles since age 6. After 10 years of classical training she began to discover her own voice as a fiddle player. As a result, Julia's skills exhibit a unique improvisational style that varies from rich lyrical melody to bow-shredding technically aggressive solos. She is actively pursuing session work after recording on albums with several bands in the region including nationally-touring Madison Greene out of Detroit, MI, and Mark Croft based in Madison.
Julia has been fortunate to have collaborated with an array of seasoned musicians in addition to Mark Croft and Madison Greene, namely Little Marsh Overflow, Stephen Lee Rich, Michael Brandmeier, Amy Curl, Beth Kille (Clear Blue Betty), Kellie Lin Knott, Tracy Beck, Catalyst, The Groove Welders, La Semilla, Lisa Stange, etc. These groups consist of genres including acoustic rock, contemporary celtic, funk, ska, blues, blue grass, afro-cuban, country western, classic rock, americana, and alt country.
Julia was featured with Mark Croft on the newly released Neil Young tribute album "More Barn" and the "Madison Made Music Project." Having had the opportunity to sit-in and experiment musically with such a wide variety of seasoned musicians has greatly enhanced her versatility and willingness to participate new creative opportunities that arise.
Her first solo project, "Strings Change," is a refreshing collection of tunes ranging from a traditional solo fiddle medley to a fiery contemporary composition with backing instrumentals. Included on this EP is a smooth and groovin' acoustic rendition of Bill Withers' "Ain't No Sunshine" featuring Mark Croft.
Julia began recording tracks for her new full-band album in January 2009. The collaboration of regional musicians on this project will provide a eclectic and exciting mixture of styles to provide a glimpse of the vast musical talent that thrives in the Madison area.
© 2007-2008 Julia McConahay
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