Session Cello
Dan’s seasoned chops + producer’s ear bring other musicians’ recordings and performances to the next level.
Cellist specializing in working with singer-songwriters, rock bands, folk groups, and every artist in-between. I've backed a dozen contestants who sang on The Voice, performed at official SXSW showcases, and played in bands opening for Grammy/Tony winners. Metal, rap, jazz, bluegrass, experimental- you name it, I've played it. Let's make music!
Singer-songwriters, rock bands, pop singers, rappers, and other contemporary artists use strings to evoke a different emotion and to make their songs stand out.
However, great string players are hard to come by. It's even more rare that they know how to work with non-classical artists.
If you're reading this, you probably need a cellist who can:
- work quickly and effectively with producers
- record radio-quality tracks
- improvise
- arrange string parts
- adapt to feedback
- send you revisions quickly
- understand chord charts/lead sheets
- sightread read written sheet music
- communicate honestly
- be easy and fun to work with
Like many other cellists, I've got a music degree and decades of classical training. I studied at Carnegie Mellon University with Nicole Myers (Cello Fury), played in the University of Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra (under Roger Zahab), and in Austin with Charles Prewitt (Willie Nelson, Austin Symphony Orchestra).
I'm currently gigging most nights (and days) in the Live Music Capital of the World: Austin, Texas.
I've played in bands opening for Grammy winners, backed (a handful of) The Voice contestants, and performed official SXSW showcases.
It would be an honor to work with you on your next project.
Backing performers you may know from:
Live Performance
Any style, any genre
Comfortable with in-ear, click, cue tracks
Ability to improvise and solo
Available to tour (based in Austin, Texas)
Studio Recording
Session cello, string arranger
Experience recording across genres: folk, metal, rock, jazz, pop, film scores
Comfortable improvising, arranging full parts, or reading pre-written music
In-studio or remote recording available (Warm Audio hardware), can deliver fully-edited parts
Indie rate: $100/song
Cello Highlight Reel Vol 1 (2021)
Sammie Zonana (The Voice, Season 12)
JD Casper (The Voice, Season 20)
Hundreds of References Available
“Dan is everything you want in a musician… Great hangs, professionalism, and a sense that he is not just a side man, but instantly an integral part of your performance or project. He always puts in the work and shows up prepared, but all you’ll hear about is how much he enjoyed the opportunity.”
“Between his classical training and ear for improvising, Dan is hands down the best cellist I’ve worked with. I can toss him into any session and my clients are always ecstatic with the results; A true professional and always a joy to have in the studio!”
“No matter what I bring to a recording session or live performance, I know Dan will meet it with enthusiasm and professionalism, and I can count on him to nail it every time. Dan brings his own brand of energy and excitement to any project and you can hear it in the results. I could not emphasize how highly I recommend working with Dan Radin.”
“Dan is a great player with a professional attitude. I have had the pleasure of having him record on several tracks I produced; his performances were top-notch. On top of being a great player, he’s a great guy who is easy to work with.”
“Dan is my go-to cellist because of his focus, attention to detail, ability to adapt musically and personally to any gig scenario, and professionalism with clients.”
“Dan is so awesome to work with! He stepped in last minute to play an important show with my band and absolutely crushed it. His talent is such a gift and the way he approaches music with enthusiasm and his whole heart is infectious!
On top of this, Dan is great to work with in the studio. As a songwriter/vocalist, it’s really important for me to refine my voice when recording. He helped me feel comfortable while simultaneously pushing me to reach new levels in my performance. Team Dan all the way!”
“Dan is fantastic to work with! He flawlessly blends his cello into the music, making each song more emotional. Whether in the studio, on stage, or solo, I highly recommend him for any musical need.”
Contact Dan
Solo EPK available upon request