Queen of the Strings- Home grown musician pulls on our hearts in CLASSIC style.

Meet Bell “Bell the Soul Violinist” Darris. A beauty of blended melody and maestro momentum. Lacing our favorite songs with her elegant strings, this smooth velvet violinist has become a prominent name in the nook of top-notch entertainment. Catch our chat on her journey into the whimsical world of classical music.

As the daughter of a pianist and guitarist, north St. Louis native classical musician Bell Darris grew in the groove of melodies in the air. “I grew up in an artistic family.”, shares Darris. “Then one day I saw a holiday commercial on tv where they were playing the violin. I said I wanted one, so they purchased it for me that Christmas. It’s been up ever since.”

From second grade, the Lindbergh High alum took private violin lessons with her “Christmas gift”. “I took lessons all the way through 12th grade. I played in school orchestra and other youth programs.” she highlights. “I just kept going.” The avid tune lover found inspiration in many genres of music. “Growing up I just loved music. It wasn’t really about violin specifically; I just loved music period.”

Darris particularly gained personal motivation from legendary Reggae artist Bob Marley, and Kung Fu legend and actor, Bruce Lee. “Those two people’s stories were very similar.” explains Bell. “They were a voice for impoverished and underrepresented people from their neck of the woods. They both stood up for literacy, growth, and teaching their people positive things. Those are two of my goats.” The CalTech (California Institute of Technology) grad describes her style as “soulful”. “I call myself the “soul violinist” because I play from my heart, and I want to touch other people’s heart and soul. I want them to leave feeling refreshed with a good vibe. That’s what my intentions are.”

The soul violinist is also a multi-genre songwriter. “I’ve been writing for a long time.”, Darris says. “My love for writing started off young. My first job was at the St. Louis Business Journal. I had an internship and wrote articles and poetry, and it developed into writing actual songs.” The artist has also won a “Song of the Year” award and has written for several local publications such as Delux and Disclosure. “I love to write about love, real experiences, and topics that make you think. Stevie Wonder is one of my favorite writers and artists. He can make you see what he can’t see. That’s the vibe I go for.”

Bell “The Soul Violinist” Darris has performed countless events and occasions across the region. She has also graced many notable stages, including the Dark Room and City Winery. “My most memorable performance would be at the City Winery. It’s a venue made for artists. They cater to the artists, treat all of us like A-listers. Amazing experience, I sold out three times.” The “stringstress” was also recently awarded an artist grant from RAC (Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis). “With that I was able to create a docuseries about my life as a violinist through the Ray-Ban Meta glasses.”

Bell Darris is also the proud boy mom of son, Sire. “He’s a 6yr old genius going into the 3rd grade. He’s a coder and he made 2 apps and 2 games.”, confirms Bell. “I’m so proud of him and he is my world.” The musician is currently performing, mentoring, and in development of a new music project. “We have such a rich art community here, a ton of amazing artists in all different genres. It’s time for St. Louis to appreciate the artists that we have now instead of waiting until they leave.” As for Bell, the string queen is rooted and booted, orchestrating her next ENCORE.

“Dream. Plan. Execute. Repeat.” -Bell “The Soul Violinist” Darris

IG: @belldarris