Alison Brown and Sierra Hull Reveal Chamber-Grass Duet “Sweet Sixteenths”

Alison Brown, a musician who has not only won Grammy accolades but also stands as a co-founder of Compass Records, has solidified her reputation as one of the world’s foremost banjo instrumentalists. Brown has consistently demonstrated her ability to collaborate across genres, revealing the far-reaching stylistic capabilities of the banjo. In her recently unveiled album, On Banjo, which effortlessly claimed the top spot on Billboard’s Bluegrass Albums Chart, Brown joins forces with the virtuosic mandolin player Sierra Hull, crafting an electrifying chamber-grass duet titled “Sweet Sixteenths.”

Within the “Sweet Sixteenths” video, viewers are treated to a rousing yet delicate musical duel, skillfully executed by Brown and Hull, encompassing the entire expanse of the banjo and mandolin fretboards. Their performance, characterized by audacity and dexterity, showcases the fiery nature of their interplay.

While Brown and Hull both possess profound roots in bluegrass music, they are united in their shared sense of musical exploration. Through their collaboration on “Sweet Sixteenths,” they not only acknowledge the classical music realm, but also pay homage to the banjo and mandolin duets recorded by banjoist Alan Munde and mandolinist Sam Bush during the 1970s. Filmed within the confines of Compass Sound Studio, the video grants viewers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the meticulous recording process, revealing the workmanship of these two master instrumentalists.

Brown openly expresses her affinity for the complementary sonority created by the banjo and mandolin, stating, “I’ve always been enamored by the harmonious blend of the banjo and mandolin. When I composed this piece, Sierra was at the forefront of my mind.” Reflecting upon her own musical journey, Brown reminisces, “During my early years, one of my favorite bluegrass albums was Sam Bush and Alan Munde’s ‘Together Again for the First Time.’ Their banjo/mandolin duet on ‘Howdy in Hickman County’ truly captivated my ears. I sought to capture that essence, although, admittedly, ‘Sweet Sixteenths’ features a few additional musical embellishments!”

Hull, joining in the conversation, affectionately affirms her fondness for collaborating with Brown in the studio, imparting, “Recording this duet was an extraordinary experience for me. Working on a piece of music as intricate as this, alongside a fellow female musician, was immensely rewarding and thrilling. We shared countless moments of laughter and smiles while arranging and recording it!”

Brown further adds, her enthusiasm palpable, “Playing alongside Sierra is always a source of immense joy for me. I was ecstatic to learn of her willingness to record this duet with me. Her remarkable touch and dexterity are unparalleled—I remain astounded by her ability to flawlessly execute the ascending run that traverses every fret on the first string!”

Apart from the collaboration with Hull, On Banjo boasts additional contributions from female virtuosos Sharon Isbin and Anat Cohen, as well as the multifaceted actor, comedian, and banjoist Steve Martin, and the Kronos Quartet, among others.

Recently, Brown had the privilege of performing with the legendary Earl Scruggs’ iconic Gibson banjo at the Country Music Hall of Fame’s donation event. In the coming month, she will grace her hometown of San Diego with her musical prowess, followed by a series of performances across the United States, including stops in Phoenix, Tucson, Cleveland, and numerous other cities.

(headline image: Alison Brown – Photo credit Russ Harrington)

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