Hip-hop violinist performs in Havre

Hip-hop violinist Josh Vietti performed his signature mix of hip-hop and popular songs Tuesday for Havre with his classically influenced style of violin playing.

Vietti has been bridging the gap between hip-hop and double-stops since 2006, he said.

His show Tuesday night was a huge success, Student Activities Director Denise Brewer said. Around 100 people showed up to watch him play.

"He was fabulous - absolutely fabulous," Brewer said. "He interacted so well with the audience."

Vietti had preschool-age children up on the stage dancing and college students dancing to Michael Jackson songs, Brewer said.

This is the last show of this kind to come to Montana State University-Northern this year.

"It's a good way to end the year," Brewer said.

Vietti studied 10 years under virtuoso Mischa Lefkowitz of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra after receiving a scholarship for his violin playing when he was seven.

Vietti is known as a hip-hop violinist, but he also plays many other styles of music at his shows, like gospel, bluegrass and jazz.

He has also been featured on the Ellen Degeneres Show and has opened for numerous artists, such as Ne-Yo and Earth, Wind and Fire, as well as playing in half-time shows in stadiums and radio shows.

Northern is the last stop on a 10-day tour for Vietti before he returns home to plan his next tour.