Many people exclusively picture classical music when they think of an orchestral concert. While it's true that string orchestras have historically been featured in grand compositions written by famous composers, instruments such as the violin can be found in a diverse range of styles and genres. After all, music has drastically evolved since the violin was invented in the 16th century; it makes sense that one of the oldest instruments would evolve too.

Every year since 2021, Hempfield School District orchestra director Nile Wilson has sought to expose her students to a new style of violin music. With the help of a grant from the Hempfield Foundation, Wilson hosts a workshop for students from grades four through 12 to have them learn from a seasoned violinist. "The analogy I give my students is that there are more spices than salt and pepper," Wilson said. "But if you don't try them, you don't know what's out there."

This year, Wilson's workshop was held on Jan. 29 and 30, and it featured Latin violinist Jesus Florido. Florido introduced students to various Latin styles and techniques for string instruments, concluding his residency with a free concert on Jan. 30 in Hempfield High School's performing arts center. To open the concert, the high school's orchestra played a medley of songs by Carlos Santana, over which Florido improvised. Florido then performed a few solo pieces, and nearly 60 middle school students joined Florido and the high-schoolers on stage to wrap up the show with a final song.

The first workshop featured jazz violinist Christian Howes as its guest musician. Last year, the workshop was held by the Mari Black Trio, a group led by Scottish fiddle champion Mari Black. Wilson has her students complete a survey every year to discern what type of music they'd like to learn at the next workshop. Overall, she said her students have been receptive to opening their ears to new styles, even if the new music doesn't suit their individual tastes. "One student was worried I'd be upset if they didn't like the clinic," Wilson added. "I said I would never be upset because everyone has different tastes. Some didn't like it, but they still participated actively."

Wilson plans to continue offering the workshop annually. The Hempfield Foundation has already provided the school district with funding for the next residency in 2025, which will feature rock violinist Tracy Silverman. "The Hempfield Foundation has been very supportive in this endeavor, and it was very gracious to give us grant funding in advance," Wilson said.