Orpheum Bell

Originating from Ann Arbor, Michigan, Orpheum Bell characterize their sound as "country & eastern," a blend of Americana and Eastern European elements. Formation took shape once roommates Aaron Klein (vocals, banjo, guitar) and Serge van der Voo (bass, percussion) crossed paths with singer and multi-instrumentalist Merrill Hodnefield (vocals, violin, saw, autoharp). Shaun Williams (accordion, clarinet, banjo) and Annie Crawford (vocals, violin, Tiebel Violine) soon joined; Crawford’s background in both classical and Eastern European music became a cornerstone of the group’s aesthetic. Local performances began in 2005, followed by the 2007 release of Pretty as You and then Pearls in 2009.