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Steven Sharp Nelson is no stranger to the stage. His unique “cello-percussion” technique combined with his emotional, passionate style has earned him a place in front of sold-out audiences around the world. He has recorded on hundreds of different albums and performs over 100 shows every year. His first solo album, Sacred Cello (2006), was among Billboard's top 20 classical recordings in the world, next to artists such as Yo Yo Ma and received a Pearl Award for Best Instrumental Classical Album. Since then he has released two additional and acclaimed albums, Tender Mercies (2008) and Christmas Cello (2010).
In 2009 Steven donned the dubious rank of “YouTube star” via his collaborative work with Jon Schmidt, Love Story Meets Viva La Vida. This year, thanks to joining “The Piano Guys,” Steven releases new music videos nearly every week. Michael Meets Mozart (again with Jon Schmidt), and his first solo video, The Cello Song – Bach is Back were among YouTube’s top ten videos on the web. Cumulatively Steven has garnered over 10 million YouTube views.
Steven has soloed and recorded with many professional performing ensembles, including a 2009 project with the China Philharmonic Orchestra entitled, “American Journey.” His arrangements and compositions have received international acclaim and have been performed by professional symphony orchestras, choirs, and solo artists from Ukraine to the Philippines. His most recent symphony, AFRICA, co-composed with Marshall McDonald, was featured on the number one classical podcast and has been downloaded 38 million times since its 2008 premiere.
Steven has an incredible ability to entertain audiences both young and old by means of humor, parody, and a little slapstick sandwiched in-between powerful and inspiring compositions and arrangements. His love for music and for performing is immediately apparent whether on stage, on YouTube, or on a recording. He studied music and earned degrees from the University of Utah. He currently lives in Salt Lake City, Utah with his wife and three children.