The Vitamin String Quartet (VSQ) has captured the hearts of many through their innovative and modern renditions of popular songs, most notably featured in the hit Netflix series "Bridgerton." Their unique ability to blend contemporary music with classical instrumentation has made them a standout in both the music and entertainment industries.
Who are the members? What are their most popular pieces? Let's get to know the Vitamin String Quartet and their music a bit better.
The Vitamin String Quartet is not a traditional string quartet with fixed members. Instead, it is a rotating collective of musicians primarily based in Los Angeles. The group was founded by Leo Flynn, a producer with Vitamin Records, who envisioned classical renditions of modern rock songs. While the members may vary, the group consistently comprises skilled violinists, violists, cellists, and sometimes additional instrumentalists.
Here are a few notable musicians associated with VSQ have gained recognition, either through their work with the ensemble or through other musical projects:
Tom Tally – A versatile violist and arranger, Tally has been a prominent member of the VSQ ensemble. His work extends beyond VSQ, as he has contributed to various film scores and other musical projects. Tally's arrangements and performances have been integral to many of VSQ's albums.
Leah Zeger – A violinist known for her work in both classical and jazz genres, Zeger has played with VSQ and other notable acts, including Postmodern Jukebox and the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra. Her versatility and skill have made her a standout performer within and outside of the VSQ framework.
Nina DiGregorio – A violinist and founder of the "Femmes of Rock" group, DiGregorio has been involved with VSQ and other musical ventures, blending classical training with rock and pop influences. Her dynamic stage presence and technical prowess have earned her recognition.
Jerome Kessler – A cellist who has contributed to several VSQ projects, Kessler's work spans classical and contemporary styles. He has also been involved in orchestral and chamber music performances outside of VSQ.
VSQ's journey began in 1999 under the guidance of Leo Flynn and the Vitamin Records label. Initially, their work focused on creating string tributes to iconic rock bands like Metallica and Radiohead. The reception was overwhelmingly positive, allowing them to expand their repertoire to include tributes to a diverse array of artists spanning various genres, from pop and hip-hop to indie and electronic music.
Their breakthrough moment in mainstream recognition came with their involvement in the Netflix series "Bridgerton." The show's first season, which premiered in December 2020, featured VSQ's string versions of contemporary pop hits, seamlessly integrating them into the Regency-era setting. Tracks like "Thank U, Next" by Ariana Grande and "Bad Guy" by Billie Eilish became instant fan favorites, blending modern musical sensibilities with the elegance of classical string arrangements.
Vitamin String Quartet's discography includes over 400 albums across various genres: pop and rock, metal, emo, punk, techno, country, and hip-hop. Vitamin String Quartet has worked together with a wide variety of groups, such as The Beach Boys, Gorillaz, Oasis, 311, Depeche Mode, Simple Plan, Queen, Led Zeppelin, The Offspring, Rush, Michael Jackson, The Beatles, Senses Fail, Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, Bruce Springsteen, Crossfade, Jimi Hendrix, The Smashing Pumpkins, Radiohead, Modest Mouse, System of a Down, The Killers, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Coldplay, Linkin Park, Muse, Thirty Seconds to Mars, Slayer, Kanye West, Adele, Lady Gaga, and Lana Del Rey, among others. Click here to get their albums.
You might have heard more of the Vitamin String Quartet than you're aware. Here are five recordings I'd like to highlight.
"Thank U, Next" by Ariana Grande
This cover, featured in "Bridgerton," showcases the quartet's ability to transform a pop anthem into a delicate, string-based composition that retains the original's emotional depth.
"Bad Guy" by Billie Eilish
Another "Bridgerton" highlight, this piece exemplifies how VSQ can take a dark, moody track and reinterpret it with a classical touch, making it both fresh and familiar.
"Yellow" by Coldplay
A heartfelt rendition of Coldplay's classic, this piece is a testament to VSQ's ability to evoke powerful emotions through their arrangements.
"My Immortal" by Evanescence
This cover maintains the haunting quality of the original while adding a layer of classical elegance that makes it even more poignant.
"Shallow" by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper
VSQ's take on this Oscar-winning song brings out its dramatic and tender elements, showcasing their versatility and emotional range.
If you're a string quartet playing at weddings, you'll probably go crazy because of all the requests for Vitamin's beautiful crossover renditions. In Vitamin String Quartet's shop you can get the sheet music and make your couples happy on their special day.
Here are five other notable classical crossover ensembles that you might like if you like the Vitamin String Quartet:
2Cellos
This Croatian duo, consisting of Luka Šulić and Stjepan Hauser, is known for their dynamic and energetic cello performances that blend classical and contemporary music. They have gained international fame through their renditions of rock, pop, and film music.
Apocalyptica
Originally formed as a Metallica tribute band, this Finnish cello quartet has expanded their repertoire to include a variety of heavy metal and classical pieces. They are known for their powerful, intense performances and unique arrangements.
The Piano Guys
An American group that combines piano and cello to create innovative arrangements of popular songs and classical music. They are particularly known for their creative music videos that often feature stunning visuals and innovative concepts.
Bond
An all-female string quartet that blends classical music with elements of pop, rock, and electronic music. Bond is known for their glamorous image and energetic performances, making classical music accessible to a broader audience.
Escala
This British string quartet gained fame after participating in the TV show "Britain's Got Talent." They are known for their contemporary arrangements of classical and popular music, often incorporating electronic elements into their performances.
Thanks to their breakthrough and over two billion streams across platforms, the Vitamin String Quartet makes classical music and the string quartet formation a lot more popular amongst a young new audience.
Are you new to string quartet music? Watch this video with the evolution of string quartets to get an idea of the rich history of this ensemble form.
