Avila Soul String Quintet

Avila Soul String Quintet is a new-music collective based in Nashville and directed by violinist, Melanie Joy Alvey. Initially co-founded by Melanie Joy with local composer Kyle J. Baker in 2016, the group performs and records compositions and arrangements written specifically for the group by Melanie Joy Alvey, group members, as well as studio work as an ensemble. The addition of an upright bass allows for a greater diversity in bass lines for the ensemble, more harmonic options for the cello, allowing for possibilities outside of the standard harmonic footprint of chamber music. Avila Soul's compositions often feature strum-bowing, chopping, and other modern elements of chamber music that enable the quintet to create rhythms found in jazz and soul music. Using this format, Avila Soul specializes in writing arrangements for singers of all genres. Avila Soul has performed live for Oz Arts Nashville, the Nashville Chamber Music series, the Nashville Composer Collective series, Bachanalia Festival in Nashville, and St. Philip Catholic Church's concert series. Avila Soul has two avenues of music creation:

1. For hire for artists and bands who would like a different and modern approach to strings on their next project or record. Arrangements are written by
Melanie Joy Alvey or other group members and recorded in Nashville studios.
2. Live concerts featuring the ensemble's unique compositions and arrangements. We can travel to your area for concerts and to host a workshop for your students.

Below you will hear examples of both accompanying a vocalist and original compositions written for the ensemble.

1st video release:
Dara Tucker
"A Father's Love"

From Dara Tucker: “I wrote this song about 10 years ago for my brother in law, who I've watched guide my nieces and nephews through the highs and lows of life with such grace and care, without an example in his own life of, "what a father's love was always meant to do." I wanted this song to be a tribute to him, and all the fathers who guide their children, day by day, with help from their spiritual Father.

2nd video release:
Lo Marie
"Imperfect Goddess"

From Lo Marie: "This song is based on a character from Greek mythology, Selene, the Titan goddess of the moon, who fell in love with a human. She had Zeus cast a spell that put him to sleep so he would stay with her, young and beautiful, for eternity. Digging further into Greek mythology, it seems that most of the Gods and Goddesses, including Selene, had major character flaws – narcissism, fits of rage, etc. To me, this song is a reminder that it is ok to be imperfect, to let go of mistakes, and to continue reigning as the fabulous Goddess that you are. Everyone is a work in progress."