Wagga Art Gallery hosts The String Contingent

Holly Downes has been performing with fellow Aussie Chris Stone and Scotsman Graham McLeod, as The String Contingent, for more than eight years.

“We have recorded five albums and we write all the music ourselves,” she said. 

“We enjoy exploring the different roles.

“I play the double bass, but sometimes I jump up and play the melody rather than the bass line, we enjoy stretching those musical roles.”

As composers, the trio often take inspiration from the landscapes that they have travelled through, from the famous Great Ocean Road to the wild coastline of Isle of Lewis, Scotland. 

Ms Downes said they all come from different musical backgrounds.

“I grew up playing classical,” she said. 

“I used to come down to the Riverina Summer School for Strings.” 

Ms Downes said it’s musically fulfilling taking inspiration from their musical backgrounds including folk, jazz, classical and rock. 

“Sometimes our audience might not know what to expect, but once we start they really enjoy it,” she said.

“We present our music relatively casually and we tell the story of what inspired us.

“We don't mind if people clap, hoot and holler.” 

The String Contingent will perform at the Wagga Art Gallery on Sunday. 

For more information click here. 

While you’re with us, did you know that The Daily Advertiser is now offering sports and local events as part of its growing email newsletter service? Sign up here.