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Page Updated 05/31/2008

 

SWBA Member Band

 
 

Backroad Ramblers


  

    
 

Dennis Harmon - Dennis was born in Phoenix, AZ and has lived in Southern California since he was three. He started playing guitar at the age of twelve. His family is deeply rooted in bluegrass music. Dennis has played with several bands starting in the 1970's. Besides the guitar Dennis also like to try his hand on the resophonic guitar and mandolin. Dennis sings lead and harmonies with the band.

Larry Holt - Larry comes from a family whose roots are grounded in bluegrass/country music. He was born in Oklahoma and music has always been a major part of his family's life. His father and brothers have the same love of music that he has. Larry has played in many bands: gospel, country and bluegrass. He plays the mandolin and Merle Travis/Chet Akins style of guitar. He is the backbone and the founder of Backroad Ramblers.

Sy Neilsen - Living in New Jersey, he first heard bluegrass music on WWVA Wheeling West Virginia as a kid and thought someday that would be his "thing" however as New Jersey isn't a major bluegrass Mecca, he had to wait until he and his lovely wife Lois came to Riverside where he was first introduced to live bluegrass. He has been playing banjo and guitar for about 10 years and has a great time with both instruments. Influenced by Earl Scruggs , Ralph Stanley, early Kingston Trio and others, he has played with the band, Rock Springs Road and continues to play with SWBA bands South Wind and Backroad Ramblers, where he sings some lead and baritone harmony.

Marcia Bruno - BLUEGRASS BASS - An overgrown fiddle that is "plucked" to keep steady rhythm. Replaces the "jug" and is arguably one step up from the washtub. That was the extent of Marcia's knowledge of the bluegrass bass when she started in bluegrass music 6 years ago. Since that time she is known for her unique playing style. She is a vivacious player with plucks, slaps and runs. She also sings lead and harmonizes with the guys. Being the only "gal" and playing the biggest instrument in the band has it's advantage. Marcia plays several instruments but is hooked on the "stand up" bass. Marcia is looking forward to retirement soon because her job gets in the way of her "bluegrass" hobby. She was born and raised in Colorado and is a wife, mother and grandmother.

 

 
  Performance Schedule