Meet Brandon Hoff

We were lucky to catch up with Brandon Hoff recently and have shared our conversation below.

Brandon, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?

As an electric violinist stepping outside the traditional classical realm, I often find myself in rooms where few, if any, look like me or share my path. Instead of seeing this as a disadvantage, I’ve learned to embrace it as one of my greatest strengths. In such a competitive industry, uniqueness is what allows you to stand out, and I’ve discovered that leaning into what sets me apart creates opportunities rather than barriers.
When I walk into a space as “the only one,” I don’t shy away from it—I use it to spark curiosity, conversation, and connection. By sharing my passion for the electric violin and my unconventional style of playing, I give others a window into my story and invite them to see music through a different lens. The violin is often associated strictly with tradition, but when people witness how it can bring rock, pop, and contemporary music to life, they begin to relate to me and my journey in new ways.
Being different has taught me resilience and confidence, but it has also taught me the power of authenticity. When you own your story and your identity, people respond not only to your art, but to the courage it takes to present something new. That’s how I’ve learned to be effective in these moments: by turning what could isolate me into the very thing that inspires others.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

I perform both as a solo artist and with my band, Bridge The Gap, which gives me the best of both worlds: the intimacy of solo performances and the high-energy collaboration of a full band. My work spans a wide range of events—weddings, corporate functions, galas, private celebrations, bar gigs, and festivals—each providing a unique opportunity to showcase the versatility of the electric violin. What excites me most is how my instrument can adapt to different settings, bringing elegance to one moment and pure rock energy to the next.
As a soloist, I often perform instrumental versions of popular songs, allowing the violin to “sing” with the same depth of emotion as a vocalist. This not only surprises audiences but also helps them connect with the violin in a way they might not have imagined before. With my band, I get to highlight another side of my artistry—demonstrating that strings absolutely belong in modern music. When paired with a vocalist or blended into a rock or pop arrangement, the electric violin doesn’t just fit in, it elevates the entire sound. There’s a reason the violin has remained timeless for centuries, and I’m passionate about showing people that it deserves just as much of a place in today’s music scene as it did in the past.
To me, it’s about more than just entertainment—it’s about redefining what people expect from strings and inspiring audiences to see music in a new way. I believe it’s time to bring strings boldly into the 21st century, and every performance is a chance to push that mission forward.
Looking ahead, I’m continuing to grow my presence both locally in Cleveland and beyond. My band and I are booking more private events, festivals, and shows, and I’m also working on expanding my solo work with new arrangements and collaborations. No matter the stage, my goal remains the same: to bridge genres, break traditions, and inspire others through the power of music.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back, I’d say three qualities have been the most impactful in my journey so far: openness to constructive criticism, confidence in myself and my story, and a strong work ethic grounded in routine.
First, being open to constructive criticism has been invaluable. In music—and really in any creative or professional pursuit—you’re constantly putting yourself out there, which means feedback is inevitable. Early on, I realized that criticism isn’t something to fear, but rather an opportunity to grow. Some of the biggest breakthroughs I’ve had as a musician have come from mentors, peers, or even audience members pointing out ways I could improve. My advice for those starting out is to develop a thick skin, but also a humble heart—listen closely, take what resonates, and use it to sharpen your craft.
Second, confidence in yourself and your story is crucial. For me, this meant embracing the fact that I’m an electric violinist in a world where most people only think of the instrument in a classical context. Instead of trying to fit into a mold, I learned to lean into what makes me different. Your story—your background, your influences, your perspective—is what makes you stand out in a crowded field. My advice here is: don’t wait for permission to be yourself. The moment you start owning your uniqueness, people will connect with your authenticity.
Finally, nothing replaces a strong work ethic and consistent routine. Talent might open the door, but discipline is what keeps you moving forward. For me, this has meant hours of practice, developing marketing strategies for my band, staying active on social media, and constantly learning how to adapt in an evolving industry. It’s not glamorous, but building those daily habits is what creates long-term momentum. For anyone starting their journey, I’d encourage you to create a routine that balances honing your craft with building your professional presence—you need both.
In short, be willing to learn, believe in who you are, and put in the work day after day. Those three skills together create a foundation that not only supports success, but helps you grow through challenges and setbacks along the way.

Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?

Without a doubt, my single greatest inspiration and source of guidance has been my mentor, Mark Wood. Having the opportunity to study with him one-on-one and build a personal relationship with someone of his caliber has been absolutely transformative for me, both as a musician and as a person.
Mark has a gift not only for teaching, but for seeing potential in others—often before they see it in themselves. His encouragement has consistently pushed me to reach for new heights I might not have thought possible. At the same time, he never shies away from giving constructive criticism, and I’ve come to value that just as much as his praise. Every time he challenges me, I see it as a chance to grow. I’ve incorporated many of his exercises and techniques directly into my daily routine, and over time, they’ve helped me overcome weaknesses in my playing and elevate my performance.
What makes his mentorship so meaningful is that it goes beyond just technical skill. Mark models what it means to be an artist who isn’t afraid to break tradition and create a new path—something I’ve taken to heart in my own career. His belief in me has instilled the confidence to embrace my uniqueness and to keep striving, no matter the obstacles.
One of the most humbling and rewarding experiences has been the opportunity to give back as a counselor at his Mark Wood Rock Orchestra Camp. After being inspired by him at age 12, I now get to mentor the next generation of electric string players under his guidance. It feels like a true full-circle moment: the very person who once encouraged me to step into my individuality is now empowering me to do the same for others. That’s the kind of mentorship that doesn’t just change a career—it changes a life.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://brandonhoffmusic.com
• Instagram: @brandonhoffmusic
• Facebook: @brandonhoffmusic
• Youtube: @brandonhoffmusic

Image Credits

Russ Lang Photography, Vaughan Photo & Film, Matt Edwards