Fordham University-Lincoln Center freshman Alex Mitchell is not your average college student. While most of us search iTunes for that hot new song, Alex Mitchell can just search his own name and find two Albums.
Mitchell, originally from Virginia, plays the electric violin and his music will make you reconsider any preconceived notions about the violin.
Using foot pedals and effects similar to that of a guitar Mitchell has created a unique modern sound with a classical instrument which has led to him achieving success with his two albums Evolution and Intercosm (both available on iTunes).
College News spoke with Mitchell last week to discuss his music, and, although he was ill and busy, the up-and-coming musician was gracious and friendly as he described his craft.
College News: iTunes labels Evolution (Mitchell’s first album) as an electronic album and Intercosm (Mitchell’s second album) as a rock album? Then there is the song on Intercosm called “Viotechno,” which can be described as techno. How would you describe your music?
Alex Mitchell: The violin can do so much more than people think. As an instrument it has been traditionally restricted by classic music. Electric violin brings the violin into the 21st century.
CN: How do you extract the guitar-like sounds from your violin?
AM: For decades people have been using foot pedals and other electric effects for guitars. Electric violins have the same outputs making electronic effects possible.
CN: Your website’s bio mentions your work performing at middle and elementary schools? Can you talk a little about that program, and how you feel exposure to electric violin will help kids continue to play the violin, as they get older.
AM: The volunteering was through a high school program in Virginia. Kids go crazy for it [because] the electric violin represents freedom. Many kids quit the violin because its boring, you suck at it for the first few years, and they feel like they are working towards something they feel is pointless. I mean, kids don’t always listen to or want to play classical music. The electric violin shows you don’t only have to play classical you play rock, hip-hop and other genres. If they can play the music they listen to on the radio then kids will continue to practice the violin.
CN: You’ve played overseas and a number of different venues. Which one would you say is your favorite?
AM: Carnegie Hall. I played there April of last year and ever since I walked onto that stage I have wanted to go back.
CN: If you could recommend a song or two of yours to someone who had never heard of you, which ones would you recommend?
AM: “Evolution Live 2008” and “Intecosm.”
CN: What upcoming projects and performances do you have?
AM: Right now I am in talks with a label. This summer, I am playing in Ireland with the Langley Philharmonic Orchestra playing Irish, classical and electric music. There are also some upcoming smaller gigs around Manhattan.
CN: Finally, we know that you are a freshman at Fordham University’s Lincoln Center Manhattan Campus. How do you balance your music career with your academic responsibilities?
AM: I don’t sleep much
Be sure to check out Alex Mitchell’s music on iTunes and his website .
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