Today we’d like to introduce you to Leanne Holmes. Them and their team share their story with us below:
During the early stages of her playing, Leanne Holmes had become a member of several orchestras including, Dunwoody High School Symphony Orchestra (where she was concertmaster for 2 years), DeKalb Youth Symphony, and Emory Youth Symphony. In 2012, Leanne started transitioning into learning other genres to perform, such as Hip-Hop and RnB, which kick-started her into starting her solo career as “L-Stringz”. L-Stringz has done recordings and performed for multiple artists including Wale, Curren$y, TKnCa$h, 50 Cent, Ashanti Floyd “The Mad Violinist”, and 2 Chainz. Some of her most noted performances include Ryan Cameron Foundation Father Daughter Dance, National Anthem, and Halftime performances for the Atlanta Dream (WNBA Team) and Atlanta Hawks (NBA Team), Bottle Signing for “50 Cent”, and the Kennedy.
Center, Honda Battle of the Bands (2019 and 2020), National Step Show Championship, multiple performances for the CIAA and MEAC tournaments, “Women in Sports Awards” for Super Bowl 2019, and the 85 South Show Ghetto Legends Tour (As well as an interview for their regular podcast). L-Stringz has also performed internationally throughout Europe in Austria, Italy, and Germany. Additionally, L-Stringz received several awards including Superiors ratings at “Solo and Ensemble ( 4 years in a row), 2nd Place at the Omega Psi Phi Talent Hunt, Most Valued Musician for two years, first runner-up in the Gamma Epsilon chapter of Omega Psi Phi, Inc “Ms. Queluptuous” pageant, second place in the NSU Talent Competition sponsored by the Pi Gamma Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc, Most Likely to Succeed from the Hampton University Chamber Orchestra, and Miss 1914 for the Beta Gamma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, INC. L-Stringz is also a sitting member of the Illharmonic Orchestra, a black orchestra that tours nationally playing Hip-Hop and RnB styled music infused with classical.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
As a black female violinist, I face many obstacles. Being a black woman I am automatically seen as unable to play an instrument that typically white/Asian races are known for playing. Moreover, playing HipHop/Rnb is very different from what the instrument was originally known for.
Sometimes playing those genres is not widely accepted by elders of the industry/those of other races and backgrounds. Also, it is challenging being creative as more and more you have to be versed in your craft and tools like TikTok, Reels, etc to get your name out there and drive interest.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a classically trained violinist. I specialize in HipHop/RnB Styles and other contemporary/non-classical styles.
I am most proud of being able to accomplish a lot by 25 such as being the first string player to perform at Honda Battle of the Bands. I believe what sets me apart from others is my persistence. I am always willing to put myself out there even when I get “No’s” or “Maybe’s” I still push on.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
The music industry is forever changing and recycling. I do see a shift coming soon as we see now a lot of music is having more of a techno feel and starting to be more inclusive in every category.
Contact Info:
- Website: Https://Linktr.ee/LStringz
- Instagram: @L.Stringz
- Facebook: LStringz
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/LStringz
Image Credits
Dallas Thompson and Jays Creations
