Bridging the Gap' returns to Fairmont State University
The Fairmont State University department of music is excited to present the popular violin-bass duo, "Bridging the Gap", in concert Friday, March 2nd at 7:30 p.m. in the Folklife Center on the campus of Fairmont State University. “Bridging the Gap” performed in the Folklife Center two years ago, and the concert was such a success that we are bringing them back to perform for our Music on the Hill Guest Artists Series. Admission for the concert is free and open to the public.
Bridging the Gap is the highly acclaimed American string duo featuring violinist Peter Wilson and double bassist Aaron Clay. Hailed by The Washington Post for “superior arrangements and uncommon musicianship,” Bridging the Gap offers a unique voice to many musical styles by uniting the sounds of instruments from opposite ends of the string family while performing music of the classical tradition, jazz, big band, folk, film music, popular song, and even funk. “Audiences love the duo for their virtuosic playing, humorous presentation, and wide variety of musical styles performed,” said department of music professor, John Morrison. "Bridging the Gap" seeks to take its audience on a musical journey without stylistic boundaries while expanding the traditional roles and perspective of the violin and double bass. Wilson and Clay further make an effort to blend their different ethnic and musical backgrounds while presenting programs that are both entertaining and educational. "Bridging the Gap" continues to be an exciting and popular musical duo in the national capital region – in demand at various high profile events in the homes of members of Congress and the Cabinet as well as at the White House. Their charm, sensitivity, and diverse repertoire have made a lasting impression on audiences of all ages. Ultimately, "Bridging the Gap" enjoys connecting with audiences and bringing people together through music.
Wilson and Clay grew up less than 30 miles apart in West Virginia but met only when their careers coincided in 1994 as members of “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band. They developed a friendship as colleagues and in 1997 teamed up in visiting local schools to educate students about string instruments and the great potential these instruments have beyond their traditional roles. What began as a musical “experiment” quickly evolved into an unlikely duo of bowed and bridged instruments not often heard together and thus, "Bridging the Gap" was founded. The exciting arrangements and original compositions produced by the duo cover a wide range of musical genres. In addition, Wilson and Clay have become known for their engaging personalities on stage, incorporating humor and audience participation in their shows. Together they have appeared in venues from school classrooms and private homes to concert halls and stadiums.
The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Folklife Center at Fairmont State University. Admission is free, but donations to support the department of music will be accepted. For more information please contact professor John Morrison at (304) 367-4179 or John.Morrison@fairmontstate.edu.
Department of MusicBridging the GapPeter WilsonAaron Clay
