Ann Marie Calhoun is a highly accomplished classical music artist who has made a name for herself as a violinist, violist, and composer. Born on May 26, 1979, in Virginia, USA, Calhoun began playing the violin at the age of four and quickly showed a natural talent for the instrument. She went on to study at the Juilliard School in New York City, where she earned a Bachelor of Music degree in violin performance. Calhoun's career as a professional musician began in earnest in the early 2000s, when she began performing with a number of high-profile orchestras and ensembles. In 2002, she joined the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, a progressive rock band known for its elaborate stage shows and fusion of classical and rock music. Calhoun quickly became a fan favorite for her virtuosic violin playing and energetic stage presence, and she remained with the band for several years, performing on their albums and touring extensively. In addition to her work with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Calhoun has also performed with a number of other notable musicians and ensembles. She has collaborated with the likes of Dave Matthews Band, Jethro Tull, and Steve Vai, and has performed with orchestras such as the London Symphony Orchestra, the New York Philharmonic, and the Boston Pops. Her versatility as a musician has allowed her to excel in a wide range of genres, from classical to rock to jazz. One of Calhoun's most notable performances came in 2008, when she was invited to perform at the Kennedy Center Honors ceremony in Washington, D.C. The ceremony, which honors individuals who have made significant contributions to American culture, featured a tribute to legendary composer George Gershwin. Calhoun was chosen to perform a solo violin rendition of Gershwin's "Summertime," which she delivered with grace and precision to a rapt audience. Calhoun's talents as a composer have also been widely recognized. In 2010, she was commissioned by the Kennedy Center to compose a piece for the National Symphony Orchestra, which premiered her work, "The Red Violin: Chaconne for Violin and Orchestra," to critical acclaim. The piece was inspired by the film "The Red Violin," which tells the story of a rare and valuable violin that passes through the hands of various owners over the course of several centuries. Throughout her career, Calhoun has received numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to the world of classical music. In 2009, she was named "Best Instrumentalist" at the Independent Music Awards, and in 2011, she was awarded the prestigious Leonard Bernstein Award for Excellence in Music Education. She has also been recognized for her work as a music educator, having taught at institutions such as the Berklee College of Music and the New England Conservatory of Music. Despite her many accomplishments, Calhoun remains humble and dedicated to her craft. She continues to perform and compose music, and is constantly seeking new ways to push the boundaries of classical music. Her passion for the violin and her commitment to excellence have made her one of the most respected and admired musicians of her generation, and she shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.

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