Today we’d like to introduce you to Marcin Arendt
Hi Marcin, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey with music began at a very young age with classical training that laid the groundwork for my artistry. While I followed a traditional path through high school, my time at Stetson University marked a turning point. It was there that I delved into improvisation, world music, and philosophy, earning a second degree in the latter. These explorations sparked a lifelong interest in how music can transcend performance to become a meaningful tool for connection and positive change.
After Stetson, I moved to Colorado, where I continued this exploration both in school and beyond, performing with a variety of groups across different styles and genres. This period deepened my appreciation for collaboration and the ways diverse musical voices can enrich one another. Eventually, I came to Memphis to join the faculty at the University of Memphis, where I’ve continued developing these ideas and working with students, colleagues, and collaborators to explore the broader impact of our work and the connections we can foster through music.
I’ve always been drawn to the ways music can bring people together and reflect shared human experiences. This passion has shaped much of my work, both locally and internationally. One of the projects closest to my heart is the Memphis in Poland Festival, where I’ve been part of the leadership since its inception. The festival serves as a bridge between cultures, fostering dialogue and collaboration through shared artistic traditions. A highlight of this work has been the cultural connections we’ve developed with the National Civil Rights Museum, presenting programs that draw parallels between the U.S. Civil Rights Movement and Poland’s Solidarity Movement. These initiatives underscore the universal power of music and history to inspire reflection and unity.
Closer to home, my work with the Iris Collective has allowed me to focus deeply on local partnerships and the transformative impact of music within our community. Through collaborations with schools, health-focused organizations, and community nonprofits that reach a wide range of people, the Collective emphasizes making music with people, not just for them. These projects prioritize accessibility, inclusivity, and engagement, demonstrating the power of creative partnerships to strengthen local connections and enrich lives.
In my performances and teaching, I focus on amplifying underrepresented voices and exploring diverse musical traditions. I believe music can be a bridge—not only between cultures but also between individuals—and I encourage my students and collaborators to think deeply about the stories we tell together through our art. Whether it’s performing for an audience, mentoring young musicians, or organizing collaborative and community events, my goal is always to use music as a way to connect, uplift, and create space for shared experiences.
At its core, my work is about building relationships—through music, across boundaries, and within communities. It’s this focus on connection that continues to guide me, whether I’m working locally in Memphis or abroad.
I feel incredibly fortunate to do this work alongside my wife, Rebecca, whose dedication and care inspire me daily. It’s equally rewarding to see these values of connection, care, and community reflected and growing in my two daughters, Daphne and Sophie, who bring their own light and compassion into the world.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Like anything worth doing, the road hasn’t always been smooth. At times, one challenge has been persuading others of the importance of certain endeavors—especially those that prioritize connection, inclusivity, or community-focused outcomes that may not always fit traditional molds. Whether it’s advocating for a new project, highlighting underrepresented voices, or making a case for collaborative initiatives, gaining the support and understanding needed to bring these visions to life can sometimes require extra effort and patience.
Another significant hurdle is securing funding. Creative and community-driven projects often require navigating tight budgets, limited resources, or competing priorities. Finding the financial support to make these meaningful initiatives happen has taught me patience, resilience, and the importance of building strong, trusting relationships with partners and collaborators.
On a personal level, like most people, I’ve faced moments of doubt in my own ability to bring these ideas to fruition. The responsibility of turning a vision into reality, especially when it’s tied to your passion, can feel daunting. However, each struggle has been an opportunity to learn and grow. Over time, I’ve come to trust the process and recognize that meaningful work—though rarely easy—is always worth the effort. These challenges have shaped not just my career but also the way I approach music, teaching, and collaboration, reminding me of the importance of perseverance and belief in the things that matter most.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am fortunate to lead a multifaceted career as a performer, educator, and arts advocate, with a focus on fostering connections between people and communities through music. As an Associate Professor of Violin at the University of Memphis, I specialize in mentoring students to explore their unique voices while encouraging them to think beyond traditional performance paradigms. I also perform regularly as a member of the Ceruti String Quartet, collaborating with esteemed colleagues to bring vibrant chamber music to audiences.
One of my passions is using music to bridge cultural and social divides, and I’ve been privileged to take on projects that align with this vision. A cornerstone of my work is the Memphis in Poland Festival, where I’ve been part of the leadership since its inception. This festival not only celebrates cross-cultural dialogue but also highlights shared historical narratives, such as the connections we’ve drawn between the U.S. Civil Rights Movement and Poland’s Solidarity Movement, in partnership with the National Civil Rights Museum. These efforts reflect my belief in music’s power to inspire unity and mutual understanding.
Closer to home, my work with the Iris Collective focuses on strengthening local communities through music. By partnering with schools, health-focused organizations, and nonprofits, the Collective brings music into spaces where it can have the greatest impact. I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with organizations such as the Bodine School, My Cup of Tea, Thistle and Bee, Alpha Omega Veterans, and the Creative Aging Ensemble, just to name a few, with each partnership highlighting unique ways music can uplift and connect people.
As a performer, I’ve embraced a wide range of styles throughout my career, from classical to jazz, Celtic, fusion, and contemporary music. I’ve performed with ensembles like Feast, a fusion and Celtic ensemble, and the Sphere Ensemble, a string ensemble known for its diverse repertoire of styles, cultures, and creative arrangements. Additionally, I’ve been fortunate to share the stage with extraordinary artists including Jon Batiste, Leslie Odom Jr., Midori, and Randall Goosby, collaborations that have been both inspiring and enriching.
What I’m most proud of is the opportunity to connect with people on both local and international levels, helping to create moments of understanding and joy through music. What sets me apart is the duality of my work: blending large-scale, international cultural initiatives with deeply personal, community-focused projects. Whether mentoring a student, collaborating with a nonprofit, or performing on stage, my focus is always on fostering relationships and building bridges, using music as the unifying force.
What does success mean to you?
For me, success is not measured by accolades or titles but by the lives we touch and the connections we create. It’s about using music, teaching, and collaboration as tools to inspire and foster understanding, whether that’s through a performance that moves an audience, a student discovering their unique voice, or a community initiative that brings people together in meaningful ways.
True success lies in leaving a positive impact—helping people feel seen, heard, and valued. It’s about creating spaces where music becomes more than entertainment; it becomes a bridge between individuals, a source of healing, and a catalyst for growth. Whether working locally with a nonprofit, performing on an international stage, or mentoring students who will carry these values forward, I see success as the ripple effect of these efforts, spreading care, unity, and understanding.
Ultimately, success is about contributing to something larger than oneself, building relationships, and making a lasting difference. It’s a privilege to do work that nurtures creativity and community, and to see the ways it sparks change in both big and small ways. That’s what I strive for every day and how I define success.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @mjarendt
