Blending Beats: 5 DJs Integrating Violin Strings into Their Sets

Up-to-the-minute DJs are constantly experimenting with new ways to captivate their audiences. Blending different riffs, sounds, samples, and genres to create fresh, exciting mixes that resonate with people, setting the mood. One captivating trend is the integration of classical instruments into DJ sets, especially the elegant sounds of violin strings. This combination of modern beats and timeless melodies creates unique and mesmerising music experiences that bridge the gap between the past and the present. In this article, we'll introduce you to five popular DJs making magic by blending violin strings into their sets, adding classical sophistication to their contemporary tracks.

Lindsey Stirling

Lindsey Stirling is a one-of-a-kind artist who has made a name for herself by blending classical violin music with modern dance beats. She's not just a DJ; she's a classically trained violinist and an accomplished dancer. Lindsey first gained widespread recognition through her YouTube channel, where she started posting videos of her unique performances. Her distinctive style, which combines intricate violin solos with EDM, quickly captured the attention of millions.

Her music features fast-paced and melodic violin parts laid over energetic electronic rhythms, creating a sound that's both sophisticated and accessible.

Some of Lindsey Stirling's most popular tracks include “Crystallize”, “Shatter Me”, and "Roundtable Rival”. Each showcases her exceptional violin skills and knack for creating innovative, dance-centric rhythms.

Lindsey's live performances are truly a sight to behold. She combines her musical talents with stunning choreography, creating visually and aurally spectacular shows. Her performances often include elaborate costumes, dynamic dance routines, and, of course, her mesmerising violin play.

By successfully blending classical and electronic music scenes, Lindsey Stirling has shown that classical instruments can have a place in contemporary music. Her innovative style has inspired many other musicians to experiment with mixing classical and modern elements in their work.

KSHMR

One of the defining features of KSHMR's music is his use of orchestral elements, including violin strings. His tracks often blend traditional orchestral sounds with modern EDM beats, creating a grand, immersive listening experience. By integrating violin strings and other classical instruments, KSHMR adds a dramatic and emotional depth to his music that sets him apart from many of his peers.

You can hear how he expertly blends electronic rhythms with lush string arrangements in his songs like "Jammu", "Wildcard", and "Symphony". Collaborating with classical musicians, he adds a layer of sophistication and depth to his productions, making his music stand out in the crowded EDM landscape.

KSHMR's willingness to experiment with orchestral sounds has inspired other producers to explore similar blends of classical and electronic music. By bringing violin strings and other classical instruments into the realm of EDM, KSHMR has helped to expand the genre and introduced a new dimension to electronic music.

Armin van Buuren

Armin van Buuren is a legendary name in the world of trance music. With a career spanning almost three decades, he has established himself as one of the most influential DJs and producers in the genre. Known for his uplifting and energetic trance tracks, van Buuren has consistently pushed the boundaries of electronic music, creating anthems that resonate with fans around the globe.

If you've ever been on Armin van Buuren's sets, you know he has a special knack for incorporating live violin performances into his shows. It brings a touch of elegance and emotional depth to his trance music. By featuring live violinists in his sets, van Buuren enhances the atmospheric quality of his music, creating a more immersive and enchanting experience for his audience.

One notable example of van Buuren's use of violin strings is his track "Intense”, which features beautiful violin arrangements that elevate the song's emotional intensity. His live events, such as the "Armin Only" shows, often include violin performances that complement his trance beats.

By seamlessly integrating classical instruments into modern electronic music, van Buuren has set a high standard for how classical sounds can enhance electronic music. Furthermore, Armin van Buuren's work has helped pave the way for new and exciting developments in trance and EDM.

Above & Beyond

Above & Beyond is a British trance group consisting of Jono Grant, Tony McGuinness, and Paavo Siljamäki. Since their formation in 2000, they have become one of the most beloved acts in the trance and progressive house scenes. Known for their emotional and melodic music, Above & Beyond has built a dedicated fan base and earned critical acclaim for their innovative approach to electronic music.

One of the standout features of Above & Beyond's music is their use of acoustic elements in their live performances. Their "Acoustic" projects, including the albums and live shows, strip down their electronic tracks to their core elements, featuring live instruments like the violin.

The live performance at the Hollywood Bowl, featured in the "Above & Beyond Acoustic - Live at the Hollywood Bowl" video, is a particularly notable event where the violin plays a central role. The acoustic arrangements of their popular tracks, such as "Sun In Your Eyes" and "Thing Called Love”, showcase the beauty of the violin and highlight the group's ability to blend electronic and classical music seamlessly.

Above & Beyond's acoustic projects have been met with enthusiastic praise from both fans and critics. The live performances, with their rich, orchestral soundscapes, offer a refreshing and emotional take on the group's familiar electronic tracks. Fans appreciate the sincerity and beauty of the acoustic versions, while critics laud the group for their creativity and ability to reinvent their music with classical influences. The use of violin strings adds a layer of depth and emotion, making their performances truly memorable.

Zedd

Zedd, born Anton Zaslavski, is a Grammy-winning DJ and music producer known for his catchy and polished EDM tracks. Rising to fame with his debut single "Clarity", Zedd has since established himself as a major force in electronic dance music. His music is characterised by its energetic beats, melodic hooks, and high production value.

Zedd's experimentation with violin strings reflects his broader approach to blending different musical influences. Tracks like "Spectrum" and "Find You" feature string arrangements that enhance the emotional depth and richness of his electronic soundscapes. The use of violin strings in these songs adds a layer of sophistication and contrast to the otherwise upbeat and electronic tracks.

Working with violinists and other classical artists, Zedd creates tracks that are both dynamic and emotionally resonant. His music bridges the gap between classical and modern electronic sounds, inspiring other artists to experiment with musical genres.