Artist description Exotic and enchanting melodies grafted into a wide variety of music styles from art rock, to pop, to alternative, to new age.

Music Style Melodic Rock, Pop, World Beat, and Instrumental

Musical Influences Art Rock, 80s Alternative, New Age and Instrumental

Similar Artists Police, The Cure, Roxy Music, Enya, Paula Cole

Artist History Formed in December of 1997 as the band "Teresa and the Welldiggers", composer, vocalist, and keyboardist Teresa Acquaviva joined forces with songwriter and bassist Len Sitnick, guitarist Richard Day, and drummer Terry Sean Butler. All four have known each other for over a decade, and have performed together in various combinations since the mid-80's. However, this was the first time that all of them have comprised a single group.What made the Welldiggers' music so special? Some of it was the songwriting, some of it was the musical performance, but much of it was the joy that these four had playing together, creating music that will have a lasting impact on its hearers.Teresa's songs can break your heart at the same time they warm your soul. Her music spans subjects as diverse as the tragedy of divorce from a child's point of view, to the pain of the breakup of a relationship that was "meant to be," to the overwhelming joy of contemplating the glory of Heaven. Her pure voice exudes power and passion. Her skills on piano and keyboards create a rich sonic tapestry that propels her songs out of the ordinary realm of popular music, breaking down all attempts to place a single label on her style.In contrast, Len's songs contain all the musical and lyrical edge of many of today's most popular modern bands. His lyrics express the hardship, perplexity, and hope of being mortal in the midst of a universe ruled by One who has an immortal purpose and promise. He honestly tries to bring to light the illusions that we have about ourselves and our world.The differences between Teresa's and Len's writing styles create much of what made the Welldiggers' music special. Where Teresa crafted melodies that are exotic and enchanting, Len's songs were energetic and gutsy.But, when you add the incredible virtuosity of Richard Day's masterful guitar textures and the powerful and inventive drumming of Terry Sean Butler, Teresa's and Len's songs began to burn with a new creative spark. And as the band evolved, the writing process began to change. All of the members became involved in crafting the songs and making them truly unique.The Welldiggers garnered a good deal of attention. Sales of their debut CD continue to be brisk. They received radio airplay and press coverage. They have performed in a variety of settings from coffee houses to outdoor festivals.On January 15th, Teresa and the Welldiggers performed their last concert. That night, they changed their name to "Approaching Violet," which more closely reflects the new directions of their music. They have boldly incorporated numerous styles, from world beat, to Celtic, from funk and rock to instrumental soundscapes. Their style is eclectic, yet is unified into one sound that sets them apart from other groups. Their music is modern, but not trendy. Their melodies stick in your head and their words capture your imagination.

Group Members Teresa Acquaviva: Lead Vocals and KeyboardsTerry Sean Butler: Drums and PercussionRichard Day: GuitarsLen Sitnick: Bass and Backing Vocals

Instruments Keyboards, Piano, Guitars, Bass, Drums and Percussion

Albums "Teresa and the Welldiggers" (former band name)

Location Laurel, MD - USA

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