Women In Charge: Meet stylish violinist extraordinaire, Kirsty Bows
|Published
As a talented violinist and fashion enthusiast, Kirsty Bows seamlessly merges her passions to create a unique blend of artistry and style. But her impact extends far beyond the stage. As a friend of the groundbreaking Lalela Project, Kirsty uses her musical talent to inspire young girls in the educational arts programme.
With captivating stage presence and impeccable style, Bows has mesmerized audiences with her enchanting performances, she weave a spellbinding experience that transcends music, leaving a lasting impression on all who witness her artistry.
GLAMOUR chats to Kirsty Bows about her musical journey, philanthrophy and fashion.
Tell us a little bit about yourself, Who is Kirsty Bows?
Kirsty Bows is not just an artist but a movement. I am redefining what it means to be a violinist in the contemporary world by blending high fashion, statement performances, and music that transcends borders. I combine my love for electric violin, fashion, and performance into an immersive experience that connects with audiences in a way they didn’t know they could.
How did you discover your passion for music and at what age did you learn to play the violin?
I was a little 5-year-old tagging along with my parents to Somerset Mall. The Heuer music store there was my first love. I begged them to let me walk in, and it was like stepping into another world. I vividly remember the sounds of various instruments filling up the space. I was immediately at the piano naturally making up my own melodies. That was the moment I fell in love. Soon after, the violin became an extension of who I am.
With every performance your outfits are always on point, what inspires your wardrobe and how you put your outfits together?
Fashion is a powerful form of self-expression, and I draw a lot of inspiration from what’s happening on the runway. I like to take high fashion and filter it through a "Kirsty Bows" lens—something bold, something that makes a statement, yet always aligned with my music, with a glove on it of course. It’s about matching the energy of my performance with my style.
Tell us about your involvement with the Lalela Project. How did that come about?
Just before the world changed in 2020, I met this incredible woman named Frances Litten. She introduced me to the fabulous team, including Lalela’s Executive Director, Firdous Hendricks, and Female Empowerment Programme Facilitator, Livhuwani Mukhondo. The work they’re doing to inspire young girls through the arts, sparking their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit, is incredibly encouraging and aligns perfectly with my vision of using music as a tool for personal growth. I became an advocate for this organization and the impactful work they do.
Lalela’s Executive Director Firdous Hendricks: “At Lalela, we use creative methods to address gender inequality by helping young girls to unlock their potential, fostering ambition and building communities of care. Through the arts, we inspire them to see new possibilities and take ownership of their futures. It’s always wonderful for them to hear stories like Kirsty's, which serve as a source of inspiration and show them that they, too, can carve out their own paths.”
As a young female artist, what challenges have you experienced in the music industry, and how have you overcome them?
One of my biggest challenges has been navigating my own individual feminine power, so I can channel it into my performances. For women working for themselves, this can be especially complex. The concept of ‘being your own boss’ is still emerging from spaces influenced by patriarchal structures. However, there is a growing awareness that feminine and masculine energies, when embraced and balanced, can work in harmony to create something extraordinary. For me, it’s been about finding that balance and realizing the magic that happens when you allow these forces to coexist and fuel your creativity.
What have been your proudest milestones?
Performing at the HSBC Rugby 7s, on top of Finkenstein Castle in Austria, walking down the runway while performing for Fashion Week, and headlining the Investec 50th anniversary at St Pancras Renaissance Hotel in London—those are moments that affirmed that I’m exactly where I need to be.
What exciting projects or new ventures can we look forward to? Any hints or teasers?
Let’s just say, if you love opulence, you won’t want to miss my upcoming performance at the Luxurious Marble Circus on 26-27 October. It’s going to be next level, and I’m ready to bring my biggest, boldest self to the stage.
Which women are on your radar, and why?
I’ve been vibing with Nancy Sinatra a lot lately. There’s something so timeless about her style and confidence. She wasn’t afraid to be soft and fierce at the same time, which is something I resonate with in my performances.
What has music taught you about yourself?
Honestly, that could be a whole podcast series! But if I had to sum it up, music has taught me resilience, shown me my own instincts, and the power of connection. It has this unique way of revealing your inner world to you. It’s both grounding and expansive, showing me that creativity is limitless, especially from a place of grounded-ness.
What are some of your hobbies outside of music?
I enjoy a good run out at the beach, as well as spending time in the mountains hiking, and playing tennis from time to time to ensure my wrist is still in tact for performances. Cooking is also a deep passion of mine. Apparently, I’m the charcuterie queen. It’s my love language, where my creativity meets organization in a recreational way, and a way that directly serves others.
Instagram: @kirstybows_
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