Today we’d like to introduce you to Jonathan Joel Violin.
Hi Jonathan Joel Violin, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Music found me early. I picked up the violin at age four and never really put it down. My classical foundations come from incredible mentors like Joy Brown Wiener in Memphis, TN, and later at Belmont University, SUNY Potsdam’s Crane School of Music, and under the guidance of Calin Lupanu. Throughout my teens and early career, I chased every opportunity to perform…church stages, symphony halls, pop sessions, studio work. Nashville, Los Angeles, New York…every city shaped me in a different way.
For a long time, I envisioned a life as a touring artist and songwriter/violinist. Then the pandemic turned everything upside down. I left Los Angeles, returned to New York to be with family, and unexpectedly stepped into the role of worship director at my church. It wasn’t the plan, yet it kept me growing musically and personally. During that time, I also found my way back into the classical world in the greater NYC area, including the tremendous honor of performing at Carnegie Hall multiple times.
A seemingly small moment changed everything. Someone discovered me on Instagram and invited me into a coaching program designed for musicians in the luxury wedding and events space. That single “yes” opened a brand-new direction…and honestly, it was the best professional decision I’ve ever made.
Fast forward, I relocated back to Nashville and launched Jonathan Joel Violin. Through strategic content creation and genuine relationship building, I’ve grown a thriving online presence and become an active part of the luxury wedding and private event community here in Nashville and beyond. Each venue, planner, and couple has added to the story—from stages like Carnegie Hall to The Four Seasons, Schermerhorn Symphony Center, and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
My story is really about embracing the unexpected. Each detour gave me new skills, new perspective, and ultimately shaped the artist and business owner I am today. I feel incredibly grateful that I get to help people celebrate the most meaningful moments of their lives with music…and there’s so much more on the horizon.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My journey has not been a smooth one… My path has felt more like a winding mountain trail…beautiful views mixed with plenty of steep climbs.
There were years where I bounced between Nashville, Los Angeles, and New York, chasing opportunity while fighting to stay afloat in some of the most expensive cities in the country. I juggled multiple careers to make ends meet, trying to keep my artistry alive while developing the business skills no one teaches you in music school. Lots of reinvention, pivoting, and uncertainty.
On a personal level, losing my dad several years ago reshaped my entire world. Grief has a way of slowing you down even when life refuses to pause. I took some time off during those years, and honestly I think it was for the better. It really allowed me to reflect on life, where I had been, and what is important. I gained a lot of wisdom during those years and a lot of creativity ended up being birthed out of those experiences.
None of it has been easy. Though those challenges forged the drive and depth I bring into my work today. They gave me empathy, grit, and a deeper appreciation for the moments of joy I now get to help create for others. I’m grateful for the challenges and bumpy paths I’ve taken to get to where I am today.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Jonathan Joel Violin is where luxury event artistry meets deeply personal storytelling. At my core, I’m not simply providing background music…I’m crafting atmosphere, emotion, and a memory that becomes part of a couple’s legacy.
I specialize in high-end weddings and private events where every detail matters. My performances are customized down to the final note, designed to reflect the couple’s personality, vision, and story. Guests may not always remember every flower arrangement or menu item, though they always remember how the moment felt…that’s where I come in.
People often describe my sound as cinematic and expressive. The challenges and joys I’ve walked through find their way into every performance. You don’t just hear what I play…you feel it. That emotional connection sets my work apart and gives my clients a one-of-a-kind experience.
Brand-wise, I’m proud to bring an elevated look and feel to the wedding industry. My fashion background allowed me to style artists for tours and award shows, and now I bring that same designer-level attention to detail into my own performance presence. From the music I arrange to the wardrobe I select, everything is curated to align with the visual identity of each event.
Luxury doesn’t have to feel distant or stiff. My approach is refined yet warm, high-end yet grounded in genuine connection. I take pride in collaborating closely with planners and venues, bringing clarity, professionalism, and a calming presence to every celebration.
Ultimately, Jonathan Joel Violin exists to make life’s most meaningful moments unforgettable. Music carries emotion deeper than words ever could, and I feel honored that couples trust me with the soundtrack to the best day of their lives.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
People can connect with me easily through the inquiry link on my Instagram, by email, or even with a quick DM. I’m available for luxury weddings, private events, and recording work throughout Nashville and beyond, and I’m always open to collaborating with fellow artists, creatives, and brands who are passionate about unique and meaningful experiences.
Supporting my artistry can look like following and engaging with my performances on Instagram, subscribing on YouTube or Spotify, or streaming and sharing my music. Those seemingly small actions help build momentum toward a bigger vision.
My goal is to continue growing internationally as both a live performer and a recording artist. The more the music reaches people, the more opportunities there are to bring this emotional, cinematic style of violin to audiences around the world.
Pricing:
- I keep my pricing competitive in the luxury market, but cater based on needs of each event, and what is required. I do not currently post my pricing publicly.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonathanjoelviolin/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.j.duncan.3
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-duncan-84467b83/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JonathanJoelmusic
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6MzuB5QMQ048rCtxnAyCx0?si=x0txRn9pQaSEB3yB37KLyw
