Biography

Formed by Alice Gerrard (b. 8 July 1934, Seattle, Washington, USA; vocals/guitar/banjo/fiddle), Irene Herrmann (vocals/mandolin/cello/fiddle) and Jeanie McLerie (b. New Jersey, USA; vocals/guitar/fiddle), this group made its first appearance on record in the early 80s. Gerrard’s musical life encompasses much early American music and through her recordings, concerts and founding of the music magazine, The Old-Time Herald, has done much to preserve this important heritage. She is well known for her bluegrass playing and has had a successful partnership in duo with Hazel Dickens, has performed with Mike Seeger (whom she married), and was a member of the Strange Creek Singers. Herrmann is a classically trained cellist and pianist, specializing in twentieth-century American composers and chamber music. She has been involved with traditional folk music since the early 70s. In addition to performing, she also teaches American folk music at the University of California, Santa Cruz. McLerie began singing professionally on the streets of Paris before living in London and various parts of the USA, mainly in the south-west. In addition to the Harmony Sisters, she also sings with the Delta Sisters and is a member of Bayou Seco. The Harmony Sisters toured successfully in North America for several years although each had her own solo career, those of Gerrard and McLerie having had the highest profile through Herrmann’s decision to spend much of her time in California. Their repertoire included ‘Blues Me Prend’, ‘Devil In The Strawstack’, ‘Fille De Quatorz Ans’, ‘Harmony Waltz’, ‘Joli Blon’, ‘Mon Neg’ Est Pas Rive’, ‘Papa’s On The House Top’, ‘Sad Affairs’, ‘Trap Mon Chapeau’, ‘That’s The Way Love Goes’, ‘Valse De Creve De Faim’, ‘Vie Est Bon’, ‘Voices Of The Evening’ and ‘You Better Let That Liar Alone’.