MVI

Formed in 2023, MVI is a progressive instrumental acoustic fusion quintet comprised of composer/guitarist Mark Vickness, wind player Matt Renzi, violinist Mads Tolling, cellist Joseph Hebert and upright bassist Dan Feiszli. Blending elements of rock, funk, jazz, folk, classical and world music, MVI embodies the idea that we are all interconnected as one human family.

“Vickness and MVI embody the belief that music is a universal language that transcends boundaries. Their music speaks to the interconnectedness of humanity, offering a rich tapestry of sounds that resonate with listeners worldwide. As MVI continues to push boundaries with their unique blend of acoustic fusion, they invite listeners on a journey of discovery and unity through music.” David Henry/LA Weekly 7/17/24

“Since its inception, MVI has been a beacon of innovation in the realm of Instrumental Progressive Acoustic Fusion music. Mark Vickness, alongside a group of exceptionally skilled musicians . . . has shaped a unique musical narrative. Their music resonates with a blend of technical prowess and heartfelt expression, creating an immersive experience for listeners worldwide.” Vents Magazine 7/26/24

Mark is a composer/modern finger style guitarist and the leader of MVI. He has a bachelor’s and master’s degree in composition. As a performer, he spent years performing as a jazz and classical guitarist and has played in numerous groups from free improv to West African drumming, Motown and funk bands, a salsa group and many more. He has recorded and performed with world renowned musicians including the Turtle Island String Quartet, legendary bassist/composer Michael Manring, Alex de Grassi and Don Ross. Mark’s debut solo CD, Places, garnered tremendous critical acclaim. Writing in Acoustic Guitar Magazine (November, 2018), Pat Moran had this to say: “Vickness’ uncanny ability to evoke the complex emotions linked to these times and places transcend the specific and catapults his travelogue into the universal.”

Mads is an internationally renowned violinist and composer and a two time Grammy Award winner. He has performed with the Turtle Island String Quartet, bassist Stanley Clarke’s band, The Who, Chick Corea and many more. Recently, he has toured with Bob Weir and the Wolf Pack. www.madstolling.com

Matt has been a sought after performer and composer in the U.S. and internationally for the past twenty years as a soloist and with The Matt Renzi Trio. He holds a Bachelor’s from the Berklee College of Music and a Master’s degree in composition from San Francisco State University. Matt has recorded and performed with Marc Johnson, Michael Formanek, Eddie Marshall, Herbie Lewis, Ben Ponder, Eberhard Weber and Bobo Stenson. www.mattrenzi.com

Joe has recorded and performed around the world across multiple genres with hundreds of artists. He is a Grammy Award Winner on Santana’s Supernatural and has played on many Grammy nominated recordings. He’s worked with Stevie Wonder, Tower of Power, Journey, Natalie Cole and Jessie Norman among others. Joe is Assistant Principal cellist with the Oakland East Bay Symphony and is on the faculty of Cal State University East Bay. The Oakland Tribune describes him as “one of the most eloquently expressive cellists in the San Francisco Bay Area.” www.josephhebert.com

Dan has performed with James Moody, Raul Midon and Mickey Hart and has toured with Julio Iglesias, Nicole Darling and Raul DiBlasio among many others. He has played in the pit orchestras for Hamilton, The Lion King and Billy Elliot. Dan is featured on hundreds of recordings as both bassist and recording engineer reaching the highest positions on the US Top 40 Jazz Charts. www.studiorhythm.com