Twisted String
The Twisted String is a unique teaching and performance concept developed by fiddler/composer Oliver Schroer. It is a series of fiddle squads, each consisting of 8-12 hot young fiddle players; the instrumentation is mostly fiddle but can include other instruments as well. It is called The Twisted String because it is string music and it is slightly twisted. There is also the sense of twisting a bunch of threads together to make a stronger chord.
Oliver launched this program in 2003 with two squads, one in Roberts Creek on BC’s Sunshine Coast, and one in Smithers, in Northwestern BC. The repertoire is composed by Oliver specifically for the groups. It’s rooted in Celtic music, but stretched way out from there… shades of Bulgarian dances, Norwegian polskas, interlocking pattern music, and low down funk. Sleazy disco grooves supported soaring melodies. African and Mongolian sonic forays – why not! And throughout it all, a sense of fun is paramount.
Oliver said, “I realized that the best incentive for getting the kids to really play this music and put their hearts and bows into it, was to write music that was the most fun to play. It was a revelation! I also realized I could use many of the experimental violin techniques I had evolved over the years to good musical effect. I wanted to stretch out the boundaries of what a group of kids on fiddles can do. So I composed stuff that showcases funky ensemble playing and alternative techniques, while never losing sight of a good strong melody.
There is also strong visual component to The Twisted String… outrageous colourful costumes… a splash of headbands, scarves, Hawaiian shirts, crazy fun-fur leopard skin pants… a hundred clashing colours, glowsticks taped to the bows and strobe headlamps ready for nighttime playing. A specialty of the Twisted String is Random Acts of Violins. The troops head for the streets in their costumes, exchange the drum kit for a trash band, strap on the cello, and create spontaneous parades in the most unlikely places. It is creative anarchy of the best kind.”
THE TWISTED STRING, THE NEXT GENERATION
The first generation of The Twisted String grew up. Most of the kids graduated from high school, and have moved on to college. Many are doing music. In February 2007 Oliver was diagnosed with Leukemia and relocated to Toronto for treatment and to be closer to family.
But now, with Oliver’s blessing, The Twisted String twangs again. Two of the alumni have restarted the next generation of this exciting group. Emilyn Stam and Chelsea Sleep, the senior members of two original squads, are both now fiddle teachers. Together they decided to reactivate The Twisted String, drawing from their most advanced students to form two new squads. Since then, a third group has sprouted back up in Smithers, and the three groups jump at any chance to travel and perform together. It’s all there; the music, the costumes, the anarchy, the fun. The original remaining members bring a wealth of knowledge to create a unique musical learning and performing experience to a new generation of Twisted Stringers.
Oliver Schroer passed away on July 3, 2008, but the Twisted String is carrying on his legacy by sharing his stories, memories and performing his wonderful, fun-filled music for everyone to enjoy.
