Eugene Bender

Eugene Bender began learning the Sligo style of Traditional Irish fiddling when he was in the 3rd Grade, studying with Jo-Ellen Blossom. He spent the next 13 years learning from famed fiddler and teacher Brian Conway and won 1st Place in the under-18 fiddle competition at the Mid-Atlantic region fleadh in 2007. He also studied classical violin at the Music Conservatory of Westchester for 5 years and was first violin in The Baroque Ensemble, The String Ensemble and the Orchestra. He was Concertmaster/violinist of the Manhattan College Orchestra for all 4 years of his undergraduate career, as well as being a member/secretary of the Manhattan College Jazz Band. He continues to be a very much ‘in-demand’ fiddler at concerts and sessions in the Tri-State area.