Founded in 1987 by violinist Allen Ames and classical guitarist Maryanne Kremer-Ames, Lyra uses classical and electric instruments to create a lively concert format with many styles of music. Maryanne's experience as a symphonic percussionist, and Allen's self-made five and six-string violins, give Lyra a musical range far beyond the standard violin and guitar repertoire.

Lyra has performed hundreds of engagements all over Arizona, as well as California, New Mexico and New York. The duo has been featured on television and radio broadcasts in the Phoenix area, performed and recorded with the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra, and played with Dave Brubeck in his "Fiesta de la Posada" Christmas cantata. Lyra toured for the Arizona Commission on the Arts from 1998 - 2002.

Since 1989, Lyra has been engaged as the annual Summer ensemble in residence at the Briar Patch Inn in Sedona, Arizona where they perform concerts and other musical activities. In 1999, Lyra released its first CD, "Way Back Tomorrow." Maryanne and Allen were married at the Briar Patch in the Fall of 1989.