The ViOS Project is a mission-based, Christian ensemble that performs unique and eclectic hymn arrangements. The ViOS Project is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that partners with churches and ministries to provide an event (in this case, a concert of Christian hymns) in order to explain and share the gospel of Jesus with non-believers, and strengthen and encourage those who are already believers. The ensemble gives free performances in a variety of different venues, making it easy for those in churches / ministries to invite their friends, coworkers, and family members to learn more about Jesus and enjoy classic Christian hymns.

The ViOS Project began in Cleveland, Ohio as a small performance ensemble, playing classic Christian hymn arrangements written by Executive Director, Julian Taylor. Julian began arranging hymns after graduating from the Cleveland Institute of Music, where he earned his Bachelor and Master of Music degrees in violin performance in 2009 and 2010, respectively. What started as a simple, post-graduation project soon turned into a burgeoning repertoire and a group of musicians dedicated to sharing, the Christian faith, and the miracle of eternal life.

In 2014, Julian launched a successful Kickstarter campaign which helped fund the creation of The ViOS Project’s first album, “HOLY.” Two years later, another Kickstarter campaign was created, this time to fund a second album, “LOVE,” and cover the costs of the ensemble becoming a nonprofit organization. The campaign exceeded its goal, and The ViOS Project became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in April of 2016.

Now, with a growing repertoire, a core group of dedicated musicians, and nonprofit status, The ViOS Project has performed for thousands of people across seven states, and continues to seek partnership with any ministry looking to share Jesus Christ with those in their communities.

The ViOS Project is an electro-acoustic ensemble, which means some instruments use electronics to play (like a synth, keyboard, or electric guitar), while others are acoustic (like violin or pennywhistle). The ViOS Project performs new and exciting arrangements of Christian hymns, as well as original spiritual songs. These songs and arrangements cover a wide variety of genres, including jazz, folk, electronic, gospel, celtic, and more.

A typical ViOS concert lasts 60 - 75 minutes, and includes 8-12 unique hymns played by multiple combinations of musicians in the twelve piece ensemble. The performance of these hymns is interspersed with personal testimonies of the musicians, as well as Bible verses and historical context relating to each of the hymns. The musicians of the ViOS Project love meeting people, and always stay after the performances to speak with audience members!

The musicians of The ViOS Project are Christians who strive to share the news of Jesus through the performance of hymns. Most of the musicians live in the Cleveland area, and have careers in everything from engineering to nursing to music.

Click here to actually listen to some of our music!

The ViOS Project’s vision is to form partnerships and build relationships with churches and ministries in order to fulfill the Biblical command to “make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). Churches and ministries, especially smaller ones, often struggle to provide large events that reach out to and welcome both church and community members. The ViOS Project seeks to help other faith based organizations reach people in their communities by planning and providing free events.

One key thing to remember about The ViOS Project is that we do not simply show up, perform, and leave! Our mission is to connect people with church families and other believers in their communities. The ViOS Project does this by providing an “event” for the church/ministry partner, musicians, and even the design of promotional materials. Those affiliated with the partnering church/ministry are responsible for: paying for and securing a concert location/venue, distributing promotional materials, promoting the concert, inviting friends, coworkers, and family members, and communicating with the ensemble throughout the preparation time. Ideally, community members are able to attend a free concert, learn about Jesus, and be connected with a church family and other believers.

i AM iNTERESTED iN HAViNG ViOS PEPRFORM AT MY CHURCH OR FOR MY MY MiNiSTRY. HOW DO i START THE PROCESS OF BOOKiNG THE ViOS PROJECT?

The first step to take in booking The ViOS Project for an event is to contact us and tell us a little bit about yourself and your needs! Fill out our online contact form and we will get back right back to you. We look forward to getting to know you! Please contact us at least three months in advance of when you plan to have your event to ensure smooth scheduling and ample preparation time for both parties.

HOW MUCH WiLL iT COST TO HAVE ViOS PLAY AT MY EVENT?

Part of The ViOS Project’s outreach to communities is to provide a gospel-filled concert free of charge. ViOS does welcome donations and may discuss a suggested donation amount with you and your organization after receiving more details about your event. Because The ViOS Project does not have a set fee, we ask that your organization be responsible for securing and paying for a performance venue, as well as any print materials to advertise for the event. The ViOS Project will design flyers and other printed advertising free of charge, but all print materials must be purchased and distributed by the hosting organization. The ViOS Project is a non-profit organization, and operates solely on donations.

WHAT KiND OF VENUE iS BEST FOR A ViOS CONCERT? WHERE HAS THE ViOS PROJECT PERFORMED iN THE PAST?

The best venues are ones you discuss with us! We are glad to assist in answering any questions you might have about potential venues in your area. It is best to have a venue with space for a 12 piece band, as well as audience members. We have performed in many different spaces, including coffee shops, record stores, parks, and even a library.