About Lark Rize
"Thoughtful and insightful". “I could listen (to their music) for hours”. This is how many describe the music of Lark Rize. And perhaps this speaks to the feelings the music of Lark Rize engenders – a sense of comfort and ease, a place where anyone can discover something, be it a point of view, a sentiment, a voice, or a story. Which is just as well since Lark Rize – made up by husband and wife team, Joe on acoustic guitar and Elena on acoustic upright bass, micro-bass, and guitar - was born out of the simple love of music and their desire to embark on a journey where creating and sharing music are its hallmarks.
With classical guitar and British folk influences in her background, Elena is the finger stylist of the duo and a convert to the bass. Her finger style lends a base to their musical interpretations and her voice reflects a sensitivity that is genuine and unassuming. An accomplished banjo player in his own right and long-time bluegrass band member in the Washington area, Joe’s mellow tenor voice, improvisational guitar breaks and easy cross-picking style, superbly enrich their musical interpretations. Together, their voices blend effortlessly into one harmonious sound.
In 2014, they made their first appearance as Lark Rize with a repertoire that included songs from the contemporary folk genre as well as songs of their own crafting. Their songwriting has since evolved to make up a larger portion of their repertoire and brings this story full circle. Having grown up on three continents, Elena’s songs are naturally inspired by her cross-cultural upbringing and experiences, ethereal musings, and human sensibilities. Joe’s urban roots, his innate love of story-telling and quirky sense of humor are his main sources of inspiration. All in all, the music of Lark Rize reflects a blend of musical and life influences and world views that, together, weave a rich tapestry.
Since 2014, Lark Rize has been performing at a number of local coffeehouses and music venues in Frederick and the Washington DC and surrounding areas. They have performed multiple times at the World Folk Music Association Showcase, as well as at the 333 Coffeehouse, the Takoma Park Festival, and opened for Mustard’s Retreat at the Cellar Stage.