Allow me to elevate your event. I am a classically trained musician, however, I play music of all genres for events all over Tennessee. I additionally will take requests on the spot if desired. Worried about amplification with an acoustic instrument? No worries, I perform frequently on an electric cello which allows my sound to be amplified in larger outdoor spaces.
2 reviews
Silas J.
May 29, 2025Stephen played the cello for my wedding ceremony and did a fantastic job. He is easy to work with, plays his instrument beautifully with a unique talent, and is able to adapt easily to playing alongside others. I would recommend him to anyone who needed a solo cellist or a player alongside an ensemble.
Hired as: Cellist
Mary S.
May 26, 2025Stephen played cello at my wedding and was absolutely incredible. He was professional, easy to work with, and added such a beautiful, elegant touch to our day. Everyone loved his music, and I can’t recommend him enough. If you’re looking for a talented and reliable musician, hire Stephen—you won’t regret it!
Hired as: Cellist
Price range: $150-$400
Languages: English
Gig length: 30 - 240 minutes
I aim to elevate events by providing a wide range of repertoire. Trained as a classical performer for more than fifteen years, I typically perform classical music, however, I have vast experience performing jazz, blues, bluegrass, and more. I am also very connected in Tennessee and am happy to contract other musicians to form a classical ensemble. Rather it be a string duet, trio, or quartet, I can find the musicians needed to make your event perfect. I also pride myself in my communication skills. I understand that time is valuable and work to respond to messages as quick as possible.
Stephen Arthur is an undergraduate cello performance major at the University of Tennessee’s Natalie L. Haslam College of Music, where he studies under Dr. Wesley Baldwin. A native of Memphis, Tennessee, he served as principal cellist for seven consecutive years in Tennessee’s All-West Orchestra and held the same position in both the Germantown and Memphis Youth Symphony Programs. Since beginning his studies at the University of Tennessee, Stephen has earned numerous accolades, including being a three-time prizewinner in the Tennessee Cello Workshop’s collegiate competition, the winner of the Tennessee Music Study Club Competition, and the first-prize recipient of the UTK Celebration of Excellence Competition. He has also been awarded first prize in the Charleston International Music Competition, the Cleveland Orchestra of Tennessee Concerto Competition, and the University of Tennessee Concerto Competition. Stephen has spent the past two summers at the Sewanee Summer Music Festival, where he was awarded a fellowship and named the first-prize winner of the Jacqueline Avent Concerto Competition. This summer, he will perform as an artist-in-residence at the Garth Newel Music Center and study with world-renowned faculty at the Ascent Cello Festival. Currently, Stephen serves as principal cellist for the University of Tennessee’s chamber, opera, and symphony orchestras and performs regularly throughout the Knoxville area.
*For outdoor events*
I require that I am under a shaded area (Trees do not count) if the temperature is above 75 degrees.
I require to be under a covering if there is any chance of rain.
I pride myself in being able to create a setlist based on whatever your preferences are!
Chair
Cellist
