We recently connected with Liz McBryde and have shared our conversation below.

Liz, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

Ever since I can remember, I have always wanted to play music professionally. Both of my parents are professional violinists and growing up in a musical environment, I knew it was meant for me. Some of my earliest memories were being babysat in the greenroom of the performing arts hall where my parent’s would have rehearsals and concerts. I think when you are around a musical environment from a young age, you are bound to have deep roots that will somehow come out creatively.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am a professional violinist and have been playing for 30 years. Both of my parents play professionally and started me when I was a baby. Yes, they make violins that small! I play in a variety of orchestras spanning the southeast and also teach privately (in person and virtually), play weddings, events, and shows around Florida that need local musicians. I have been fortunate to travel globally playing in different tours and orchestras and also have played with great names such as The Eagles, The Who, Michael Bublé, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Rod Stewart, Weird Al and many others.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Some of the most rewarding moments I have is seeing the look on people’s faces when you’ve touched them with what you’re playing and performing. I don’t always have people I know in the audience, and when I don’t, I like to pick someone or a group of people and dedicate what I’m doing for them. As a musician, I don’t only play because I enjoy it, I play for people to listen and receive something.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

Every musician has their “Top 5” or so list of what they hear the most from people (often times non-musicians or creatives). “Can you play The Devil Went Down to Georgia?” is at the top of my list. I could certainly retire if I had $1 for how many times I get that question. That being said, a common question, statement, or implication that I unfortunately receive are along the lines of: “Do you do this full time?” “You can make a living doing that?” “Do you have another job?” “Is this your real job?” ..I’m sure many creatives can relate to these questions. I try to understand where these questions are coming from and really break it down to those who have no idea what it is like, fairly, to dedicate one’s life to an art, a craft, or something seemingly intangible. How or what does music provide and how do you measure that monetarily? Again, that’s a fair and ambiguous question. However, sometimes the things that are not easily defined are the most priceless.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.lizkittsmcbrydeviolin.com
• Instagram: @lizmcbryde
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/lizkittsviolin