JLB: So tell me Tricia, when did you start playing, and what made you choose the violin?

Tricia: Well it’s a funny story, Justin. I never intended to play any instrument. I was in gym class one day praying that the hour would go by fast; gym was a nightmare for me because I wasn't athletically inclined. We always, and I mean always, had to do sit ups, chin ups, and [-shakes her head is disgust-] climb that damn rope hanging from the ceiling. Well, for the life of me, I could never climb more than a few feet off the ground! On day my prayers were answered. The music teacher came into gym and asked if anyone wanted to play a string instrument. Needless to say I jumped at the opportunity. I didn't’t know a violin from a viola,or a cello, but it didn't matter. It was a way of getting out of climbing that damn rope up to nowhere.

JLB: Well, I can only say that the world is better off having you as a violinist, instead of you being a jock. When I spoke to you over the phone, you talked about playing jazz, a little hip-hop, and R&B: Have you ever played classical music?

Tricia:  Yes, I am actually a classically trained violinist. I received my fine arts degree from Eastern Michigan University in music, and minored [-her eyes start to twinkle-] in rope climbing [-breaks out into a hysterical laugh-] . I played on the classical circuit for many years. I really didn't’t start playing jazz until 6 years,or so, ago.

JLB: What made you switch from playing classical music, to playing jazz?

Tricia: I found that jazz allowed me the freedom to express that [-making quotation marks in the air with her fingers-] the real me. I discovered that I could free my heart and soul playing jazz. My father always said jazz was a kind of music that you could feel, a music that stirs your soul from the bottom up. I want people to hear my music, free their minds, and then feel the passion as it erupts from the deepest recesses of their soul. Sorry, but I'm very passionate about my jazz.

JLB: Wow! That was deep Tricia; I mean really deep. Let me lighten things up a bit. I saw you in concert and you have a very unique violin: Was it made specifically for you?

Tricia:  No it wasn't, but give me a little time Justin, and a couple of Grammy awards, and then for the small price of $10,000 and some change, you too can own a Red Jazz Tricia Violin.  The instrument that I am currently playing is a Yamaha electric violin. It has a sweet, sensual sound, and my muse told me that its unique shape reminds him of my body. Justin, everyone should have a muse like mine ...a little crazy, a lot of fun, and a whole bunch love and inspiration. I love my muse!

JLB: I see here in your bio that you have played with a lot a of jazz heavyweights.

Tricia: Yes, I have been very fortunate and blessed to have played with some of music’s greats.

JLB: Is there one musician that you like jam min' with more than any one else?

Tricia: I really can’t say that I have a favorite because they are all so wonderful and awesome to play with.

JLB: How do you describe your music?

Tricia: I have to say that my music is very eclectic. I love to play jazz, but I also like to fuse a little R&B, pop and even some Celtic music in my mix.

JLB: Do you do anything else?

Tricia: Well, if you mean musically, I write, arrange music, and I also sing.

JLB: I see you’re a woman of many talents. Is there anything else you would like readers to know?

Tricia: I'd like everyone to know that I love playing the violin, I love to sing, and [-arches right eyebrow, and bites bottom lip-] I'm on cloud nine when I perform. Nothing gives me greater pleasure than to be on stage performing for my fans. That’s the greatest compliment ever.

JLB: Well Tricia, our time has come to an end. Thank you for your time, your openness, and your passion for music. I hope you let me have the first interview after winning the Grammy for best new Jazz Artist!

Tricia: Thank you, Justin. And yes, the first Grammy interview will be yours.