Bring together two talented musicians, mix in a little passion and a lot of enthusiasm, and you have the Skyline Violin-Guitar Duet. With the romantic charm of the violin and the tender sounds of the guitar, this is an ensemble that can accommodate many styles and many types of events.

Ken Rothacker has been involved with instrumental music since he started playing the trumpet while in elementary school. After teaching himself guitar while in junior high, Ken went on to earn a scholarship to study classical guitar as a music major at the University of Illinois. While studying at Illinois with Professor Paul Cox, Ken participated in master classes with a number of elite guitarists, including Manuel Barruecco, Robert Guthrie, Sharon Isbin, Michael Newman, and Turibio Santos. Since graduating from Illinois, Ken has maintained an active playing schedule, performing both as a solo guitarist as well as with several groups, for numerous weddings, corporate events, concerts, and church services. Ken’s playing has been heard on radio stations including WMBI-FM and WGN-AM. June of 2008 marked a 3rd return appearance to Chicago’s Wrigley Field, where Ken’s solo guitar version of “The Star Spangled Banner” has been featured before several Cub’s games. Ken is extremely versatile in style and repertoire feeling just as comfortable playing a Classical Concerto, Swinging Jazz standard or Beatles Rock Classic.

Violinist April Berkowski holds her Bachelor of Music from Elmhurst College and has played violin for over 30 years. Originally trained in the Classical genre, April’s interest in jazz, pop and world music has seen her recently explore the stylings of non-traditional violin styles. With several hundred wedding ceremonies and countless other types of events under her belt, she is just as home playing in a classical string quartet, a Slavic gypsy ensemble, with a rock guitarist or in front of a jazz combo.

Together, April and Ken have explored a diverse range of songs for their repertoire. Consider using them for a charming wedding ceremony (indoors or outdoors!), a festive cocktail reception or an elegant dinner. With amplification available, they can perform in front of groups of up to 500 guests. Whether you are looking for classical styles to flamenco to jazz to pop, or rock, the Skyline Duet will bring sparkle to any special event.