The Lonely Heartstring Band was born as a wedding band, hired for one wedding to play only Beatles repertoire on traditional bluegrass instruments. It didn’t take long to start exploring other sounds and original songs within the group, but that initial flame of the Beatles was indicative of the bands love of songs, arrangements and music that feels good. Combining instrumental virtuosity, 3-part harmonies, and a deep understanding of traditional bluegrass and Appalachian music, this band is all about a great show. The band first appeared at the Joe Val Bluegrass Festival on the Showcase Stage in 2013 has been on the rise ever since. The Lonely Heartstring Band won the 2013 Thomas Point Beach Festival Band Competition. With their 2015 IBMA Momentum Award and their 2016 release of their debut full-length album on the legendary Rounder Records label, there is every reason to hope that they are at the front edge of a significant career.
The band includes Newton native Gabe Hirshfeld (banjo), George Clements (guitar) of Westborough, Bostonite Charles Clements on bass (who also plays with the Boston Symphony), Patrick M’Gonigle (fiddle) and west coast native Maddie Witler (mandolin) .
“These guys are as close to the Real Deal as it is possible to get. They made my hair stand on end.” ~Darol Anger