Hometown: Gainesville, FL
Website: patchwork.us
Sounds Like: Dixie Chicks, The Wailin' Jennys, Be Good Tanyas, Trio - Dolly Parton/Linda Ronstadt/Emmylou Harris, Claire Lynch
Genre: Americana
Patchwork was formed almost thirty years ago. Our name came from the fact that we each played in several different bands—bluegrass, old-time, jazz, folk, rhythm & blues, and classic rock. Patching all of these forms of music together and playing them in a bluegrass format, the band created its own unique style of “girl grass.” Still going strong, Patchwork is widely known for creative arrangements, stellar harmony vocals, award-winning original songs, and the instrumental prowess. Lead playerTammy Murray has won state/national awards in fiddle, banjo and solo vocals. Though she plays guitar, piano, bass, and banjo, Janet Rucker is most known for her distinctive voice. Her original songs compose a large part of our repertoire. An eclectic musician whose roots include classical, folk and jazz, Cathy DeWitt plays piano, guitar, sings and composes. She is Music Director for Shands Arts-in-Medicine hospital music program. With a degree in music, Jolene Jones is in demand for her wide vocal range. Her soaring harmonies and rhythmic mandolin playing are a distinctive part of Patchwork's sound. Annie McPherson sings, plays piano and bass and grew up playing and singing, influenced by her mother, a trained musician and pianist.
“A Florida favorite, full of great energy, outstanding musicianship, and just plain fun!”
Donna Green-Townsend - WUFT-FM Radio
“Stunning, soaring vocals...”
Bill Hutchinson - City of Gainesville Dept. of Cultural Affairs
“Patchwork is a regional treasure of no small magnitude...”
Scott Barnes - Satellite Magazine