Kristel Birkholtz

Kristel Birkholtz is an accomplished and versatile violinist, proficient playing in various musical genres, from classical to jazz, Celtic to rock and funky dance to local African styles.  She performs solo, as well as with different combinations which can include violin and piano, violin and guitar, and two violins.

Kirstel's extensive formal musical training started at the age of 6, and culminated in a BMus degree from Wits (1999), where she majored in performance. She also received numerous awards and prizes during her studies. 

Some highlights of her performance career include performing in the Subaru car advert in 2007, playing the lead violin role in the Barnyard Theatre productions "Beethoven Rocks Again" (2003/4), the “Harvest Moon” at Willowbridge Barnyard (2006) and “Rock Me Amadeus” at the Menlyn Barnyard. She has made guest appearances on e-TV's "Backstage" (2005), with Watershed on KykNet (2000) and also appeared as a violinist on the Egoli set (2006/7). She also  has extensive experience in performing for large corporate events. 

Her range of instruments include acoustic and electric violins, including a custom-made tin-can electric violin crafted by AfriCan in Cape Town, and she is also proficient in piano, flute and singing.