Queen of the Violin Rising
Kersten Stevens is a genre-defying violinist and composer widely known as the “Queen of the Violin.” Her music blends jazz, gospel, soul, and improvisation into a sound that is both powerful and deeply expressive. Audiences often describe her performances as electrifying, marked by technical brilliance and emotional depth that create an uplifting, joyful experience.
She began her musical journey at an exceptionally young age, starting violin at just three years old through the Suzuki method. By the time she was ten, she had immersed herself in gospel music, and by twelve she was exploring jazz. These early influences became foundational to her artistic identity, shaping her improvisational style and spiritual approach to music.
Kersten Stevens is a graduate of Yale University, where she earned degrees in music and African American studies. This academic background informs her artistry, allowing her to approach music not only as a performer but also as a cultural storyteller. Her work often reflects an awareness of history, identity, and tradition woven seamlessly into modern expression.
She gained national recognition as a six-time winner of Amateur Night and Showtime at the Apollo. These victories helped establish her as a standout performer with the ability to captivate diverse audiences on one of the most competitive stages in American entertainment.
Throughout her career, Stevens has collaborated with and performed alongside many acclaimed artists, including Christian McBride, Regina Carter, and Kim Burrell. Her versatility allows her to move fluidly between jazz, gospel, and soul, making her a sought-after collaborator across genres.
One of the major milestones in her career is the album Queen Rising, which she co-produced with nine-time Grammy Award-winning bassist Christian McBride. The album features a mix of original compositions and reinterpretations, highlighting her growth as a composer, bandleader, and visionary artist.
On Queen Rising, McBride performs on every track and co-writes several pieces with Stevens. The project also features an exceptional lineup of musicians, including drummer Eric Harland, flutist Ragan Whiteside, and pianist Miki Hayama, contributing to the album’s dynamic and polished sound.
Earlier in her career, Stevens released Inspire Me, a project rooted in gospel music that combines original works with traditional spiritual themes. The album earned her the Independent Music Award for Christian/Gospel Album of the Year and demonstrated her ability to merge faith-based music with sophisticated musical arrangements.
Her work has been featured in prominent outlets such as Vogue, WBGO, and All About Jazz, and her performances have reached audiences that include cultural leaders and public figures such as President Barack Obama, Dionne Warwick, Usher, and Denzel Washington. These moments reflect the wide reach and resonance of her artistry.
Today, Kersten Stevens continues to redefine the role of the violin in contemporary music. Whether performing in concert halls, festivals, sacred spaces, or community settings, she uses her instrument as a voice for joy, spirituality, and cultural connection, leaving a lasting impression on listeners around the world.
