The String Contingent have been described as “the upper echelon of instrumental exploration, arrangement, composition and performance.” (Tony Hillier, Rhythms Magazine).
Australians Chris Stone (violin) and Holly Downes (double bass), with special guest Catherine ‘BB’ Bowness (NZ/USA, banjo), compose music of sparkling beauty and originality and perform with virtuosity, finesse and a light-hearted twinkle. Their sound combines diverse musical backgrounds in celtic folk, classical, jazz and bluegrass into evocative, exciting and original music.
They have played all the major acoustic festivals in Australia and New Zealand, released three albums and a live EP, including their 2013 offering ‘Talk’, with a new album featuring Australia’s most unique and excellent musicians in a special collaborative project on its way.
Visit their web site.
“… Extremely sophisticated instrumental music … The level of skill of this group is stunning as are the beauty and joy of their compositions.” - Steve Gadd, Artistic Director, Cygnet Folk Festival, Australia
“Beautiful playing, great musicianship, wonderful ideas. The String Contingent are going places, and quickly!” - Chris Duncan, ARIA award winning Scots fiddler
“Absolutely fantastic, the originality and beauty of your music cannot be underestimated. The quality of your playing is outstanding… a truly enlivening, exciting experience.” - Nicola Black, Acoustic Village Programmer, Wickerman Festival, UK
“The String Contingent has wasted no time ensconcing itself in the upper echelon of instrumental exploration, arrangement, composition and performance. Indeed, the trio’s third album in as many years is of sufficient quality to merit comparison with works delivered by Bela Fleck, Edgar Meyer, Mark O’Connor, Mike Marshall, Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas and other alumni of the American school of acoustic excellence.” - 'Review of ‘Talk’ - Tony Hillier, Rhythms Magazine, March 2013
