Event

Gaelynn Lea

Classically-trained violinist and songwriter Gaelynn Lea has been bewitching scores of fans with her contemporary takes on fiddle music, an approach that incorporates her love of traditional music, songcraft, poetry, and sonic exploration. Many were introduced to Gaelynn's music when she was named winner of NPR Musics 2016 Tiny Desk Contest and have been taken by her distinctive voice, ethereal violin-playing, individual technique and appearance. Gaelynn has a congenital disability called Osteogenesis Imperfecta (also known as Brittle Bones Disease). She plays violin in a self-developed method similar to traditional cello technique, while embracing artful electronics and looping effects. She's been performing for over a decade, and has collaborated with Low's Alan Sparhawk (whom she also recorded a duo album with in 2012), country legend Charlie Parr, and others. Her powerful performances have found Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys, Jess Wolfe of Lucius, and other lauded musicians singing her praises. Of Gaelynn's moving Tiny Desk Concert performance, host Bob Boilen said there was hardly a dry eye.

Gaelynn will do a moderated post-concert Q&A, answering questions about her singular music, technique, and disability in the arts.