Ms. Stevens has been playing the violin since she was three, thus, the violin has always been a lifestyle for her.   Ms. Stevens is an exceptional artist whose music will touch your soul and bring joy, peace and happiness to anyone who listens to it.  Ms. Stevens’s music is an absolute treat to listen to.  Her music crosses different genres from gospel, jazz to contemporary styles.

We interviewed this phenomenal violinist to learn more about her music and currents projects.

USM:  When did you start playing the Violin?

KS:  I started playing the violin in Rhythms class with fake violin.  I was told that I took a liking to dance, theater and instruments at a very young age.

USM:  When did you realize that you wanted to be a violinist?

KS:  I believe it was around the age of eleven or twelve when I branched out from classical style to gospel and Jazz.

USM:  How were you able to get into Yale?

KS: It’s a funny story.  I actually had no plans of attending Yale.  I wanted to be an entertainment lawyer.  My goal was to attend college in a different state away from home.   However, my mom convinced me to apply to Yale and I decided to take her advice because they have a great music program.  My application was accepted and I decided study there.

USM:  What was your experience at Yale like?

KS:   I started out as a music major my freshman year and was involved with the Yale Symphony Orchestra.  I got the opportunity to play at many events and developed my skills.  It was a great learning experience and it helped to launch my career as a violinist.

USM:  What inspires you to create such wonderful music?

KS:  I am inspired by human emotions.  I like my music to touch others and bring out emotions in them.  I feel that I have done my job when someone can find peace, joy or happiness in my music.

USM:  What would you say to young girls who are thinking about becoming a violinist?

KS:  I would advice young women to have a very powerful payer life and be spiritually centered.  Although, you are faced with many different obstacles, you should understand that your faith will get you through the tough times in your career.

USM: What was your experience like playing for President Barack Obama fundraiser?

KS:  It was a fantastic experience that I would always remember.

USM:  You have received many awards and accomplishment over the years, what is the one goal that you still have not achieve?

KS:  I am very humbled by all of my accomplishments.  However, I am working very hard to win a Grammy.  I would also like to work with other artist like Stevie Wonder, Alicia Keys, and Israel Houghton to name a few.

USM: What other genre of music do you enjoy?

KS:  I enjoy Jazz, R&B and Hip Hop music. I only listen to the clean versions that are played on the radio.  I like music that is purposeful.

USM:  What other projects are you currently working on?

KS:  I am going on tour with Yanni in South America, Asia, and the U.S. in a few weeks.  I am also working on my new CD which will be out in 2011.  It will be a mixture of Jazz and inspirational music.

USM:  How can the fans learn more about your tour?

KS:  The fans can learn more by going to www.yanni.com.

USM:  How are you able to compete in a video, MTV driven industry?

KS:  Well a person’s talent makes room for him/her.   I don’t worry about competing with anything or anyone else.  There has always been a place for my in music.

To listen or learn more about Ms. Stevens’s music go to www.kerstenstevens.com.

USmile Magazine