e International String Trio (IST) delivers Appalachian folk, acoustic world music such as Irish, Klezmer, Russian, Italian, French, Bluegrass and Gypsy jazz--plus virtuosic classical arrangements and popular songs from movie sound tracks. The diverse cultural backgrounds of its members--from Russia, Japan and England--influence the Trio's stylistic diversity and unique performance aesthetic. All three exceptionally talented musicians are alumni of Berklee College of Music in Boston. Violinist Ben Powell was raised in England and is noted for his musicianship, technical brilliance, mature, intuitive style and delivery. He was invited to play at the Nagano 1998 Winter Olympics in Japan as part of an international Suzuki celebration, has given recitals at the Queen Elizabeth Southbank complex in London, appeared at the Tanglewood Jazz festival and at jazz clubs in France. Guitarist and Musical Director Slava Tolstoy studied composition and guitar performance at St. Petersburg Jazz School in Russia before entering Berklee as a scholarship student. He founded IST in 2002 and developed its unique performance concept. In addition to being an accomplished performer, he is also a songwriter and producer. Acoustic Bass and Percussionists Ippei Ichimaru has been a professional bass player/arranger in Australia and the U.S. since 1991. He is one of the most active bass players in the Boston and New York areas and has played with or arranged for many talented international musicians.