Merchants Groove

Hear what members are saying

"Prior to the course I was always waiting and it wasn’t going anywhere. After meeting Chris, I have seen some big changes with a ‘let’s make sh*t happen’ attitude! In Melbourne I had my first summer as a consistent session musician. In Tokyo I decided to work on a solo project I never had courage to do before the course. Chris has completely changed the relationship between the violin and myself..."

Elle ShimadaPerformer/Producer/Composer (Tokyo and Melbourne)

"The workshop offered videos, feedback and mentors that responded to all my goals (accompaniment, techniques, soloing w harmonic knowledge, connecting my voice with my viola). Also there was an opportunity to connect & watch other attendees on their journeys."

Alva AndersonSinger and violist

"I am really excited to incorporate Chris' curriculum into my teaching. My high-school students LOVED it!"

Shana Hobin StewartHigh School Orchestra Teacher, NY

"There is literally no one I know who has studied the business of music more thoroughly than Christian. He’s not only a master musician; he’s one of the most knowledgeable people you’ll ever meet in learning how to make a living."

Joel HarrisonGuggenheim Recipient, Composer, Guitarist (NYC)

"It has been an ‘ear-opener’ for me as a classically trained free-lance professional orchestral violinist. It has been humbling for me to realize how much I don’t know about harmony, rhythm, and ear training. Chris has encouraged me to find my “own voice” on the violin, inspired me to improvise away from the music stand, and to trust my own creativity. Most of all, I have never had this much fun playing the violin!! Chris has made a huge contribution to my musical life.”

Belinda SwansonNorth Carolina Symphony Orchestra

“My 3 teen daughters haven’t been that excited about practicing. But when they got done playing to your videos they were so excited that they could actually play along with Senorita and said how much fun you were… and they loved your encouraging comments during the videos. A Mom can only say so much! Way to go! “

Martha HannafordFiddler/Vocalist, Concert Promoter and Instructor at Fiddle Bee

" You gave me the essential keys to understand how to improvise. And especially to dare to play, even if we don't know anything about jazz or the codes of improvisation. Everything you shared with us was clear and practical, I know what I have to work on and how I can practice. Thanks for your passion and the way you convey your knowledge and your experiences. "

Flora TrivelliViolin Teacher, Switzerland

“My students have never been more engaged in their work and my job satisfaction has doubled after this course as I have enjoyed making stronger connections with my students. I feel so much more invigorated by my work helping them develop their musicianship through their own creative voice. "

Austin ScelzoMiddle School Orchestra Teacher

“Right from day 1 of the Creative Strings Workshop, the vibe was open, welcoming and encouraging, and Chris made it clear that it was all about each player going at their own pace, pushing themselves beyond their own comfort zones, and making new discoveries and connections in our own playing and this creative string community. I felt so supported and encouraged and I made so many friends and professional contacts in this “leave your ego at the door” environment.”

Sue BuzzardOrchestra Director at Rockport Public Schools

"Thank you for an amazing and eye-opening experience. Chris's approach is always affirming and inspires the student to believe in their own potential and unique musical voice. It's a wake-up call to everyone who says 'I can't improvise'. Whatever level you have reached 'technically'- whether amateur, teacher, performer- Chris' teachingg is life-changing, and will unlock your creativity through your instrumental voice."

Sally BeamishProfessional classical violinist & composer for theater, film & TV, "British Composer Award for Lifetime Achievement" recipient

"Thank you for this amazing journey on improvisation and creativity. I believe I have material I can practice on for the next 10 years!"

Kalina JankovaMusic Entrepreneur & Educator, Sweden

"I'm so happy and relieved to have found a teacher that understands the frustrations of coming from a rigid classical background, and more importantly one who knows a way out into a wider world!!"

Sarah CrossViolinist, Netherlands

"The amount of knowledge gained in 7 weeks online boot camp far outpaced 2 weeks of daily attendance at more traditional jazz camps."

Michael McWilliamsViolinist

"If you’re looking to master what it means to be a modern musician, this workshop is going to teach you everything from honing your improv skills to learning to play in multiple styles — think rock, jazz, blues, and more. You’ll learn how to be more adaptable in your musicianship, become your own accompanist, and meet other amazing players through live stream sessions. If you're a student, teacher, or performer who's looking for a way to explore your own voice in a new and meaningful way, consider this awesome opportunity."

Neil GilfillanSuzuki Cello Teacher

"The highly organized musical plan of being able to understand & play improvisational music with feeling via the live zoom sessions was both highly inspiring and challenging"

Michael DoucetSinger & Violinist

"Christian Howes provides a much needed bridge to classically trained musicians and others who want to expand their playing and begin to play within a more creative context.Bravo!"

Timothy SmithFiddler & Recording Artist

“The Creative Strings Workshop has been a game changer for me. In a short amount of time, I've made huge leaps forward in my playing and grown in confidence. I'm finding that I'm utilizing elements of what I've learnt in everything I do, from creating, to teaching and facilitating, to singing rhythmic patterns as I'm washing up!”

Fritha JenkinsAssociate Lecturer at the University of the Arts, London

"The course gave me a boost and reframed the way I approach my music career. I went from being passive, taking opportunities when they were offered, to focusing on my goals and reaching out directly to potential clients. By narrowing down the work I did and becoming confident in charging what I’m worth, I’ve significantly increased my annual income."

Andy LentzPerformer