Christen Lien

Christen Lien is an avant-garde artist with classical roots and multi-instrumentalist who creates an innovative brand of musical storytelling. The viola is at the heart of her music making, however, she also incorporates the use of guitar effect processors and looping pedals to create a multi-faceted landscape that bridges electronic, industrial and classical genres.

Her multimedia performances communicate stories of mythology and imagination, politics and prose, hope and empowerment. She aspires to redefine the world’s understanding of, and experience with, the viola.

Christen has performed for diplomats, fortune 100 executives, heads of state, royalty, celebrities, and has inspired many crowds around the globe. She recently performed for the White House Summit on the United State of Women, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Forbes Under 30 Summit, Nexus Global, Summit W+, and MIT Hacking Arts. Christen serves as the artist-in- residence for the Unreasonable Group and Barclays' global partnership. In October of 2017 Christen released her new concept album, ELPIS, which explores the dark side of hope.

Christen is an active citizen who stands up for her beliefs. While serving as the Executive Director of the Ann Arbor Film Festival, Christen won a First Amendment lawsuit against the State of Michigan to protect artists' freedom of speech.