Shannon Hayden

Doing what is expected isn't something everyone does well. Following years of classical training at the highest level, Shannon Hayden's very non traditional interpretation of cello performance is an example of why that is a good thing. Running her instrument through more electronic gear and amplification than some metal band with a stolen credit card probably wasn't something anyone back at the conservatory had in mind, though it really shouldn't come as much of a surprise these days.

Art has always found ways to embrace technology without becoming a slave to it and Shannon's compositions owe as much to her brilliant mastery of the cello itself as they do to the latest technical innovations which greatly expand the range and complexity of the instrument. Occasional heavy outbursts of distortion with elements bordering noise punk are matched with layers of lush ambiance combining both current and traditional styles with all the virtuosity of a player redefining our expectations of maturing young prodigies. Some musicians make you feel good about where music is headed and Shannon Hayden is one of them.