Alex and Naomi Anest and Orpheum Bell 

Alex Anest has been writing songs and playing guitar since he was old enough to put words on paper.  Naomi Anest has been singing for as long as anyone in her family can remember.  When they got married in 2001, it was only a matter of time before they would decide to start working together musically.  Combining intelligent songwriting with a high quality performance aesthetic, the two began a very occasional performance career.

While their live shows have been few and far between, the response has been fantastic.  Audiences are captivated by Naomi's beautiful, full voice as well as by the overall sound of the music.  There is a symbiotic relationship which emerges when listening to this music:  Alex's songs are a perfect vehicle for Naomi's voice, and her voice breaks out the full potential of the songs.

Alex and Naomi would rather play a few shows, taking the time to make sure these performances will be excellent, than to take the route that so many new bands try of playing as many shows as possible.  Alex already has years of performing and recording experience in bands like Delta 88, as well as touring experience in the U.S. and Europe.  When that experience is combined with Naomi's voice the effect is riveting.  While some people write good songs and others are great singers or musicians, only a few can boast of interesting songwriting and the ability to perform those songs well.  Alex and Naomi have formed this type of group.  

They are currently recording their first full-length record.

Orpheum Bell presents original melodies and forgotten country, 


with a hint of swing. String bass and lead female vocals set the stage and the quintet dusts off accordian, musical saw, autoharp and other neglected musical appliances.  Members feature Merrill Hodnefield (vocals, autoharp, musical saw and violin), Serge van der Voo (upright bass), Aaron Klein (guitar, vocals and banjo), Paul Fine (violin, stroh violin and mandolin), and Shaun Williams (accordian, banjo, clarinet and percussion). Guest violinist David Mosher joins Orpheum Bell for the Trinity House show.