SistaStrings is a incredibly dynamic musical duo comprised of sisters Chauntee & Monique Ross, whose exceptional talent and versatility has made a profound impact on the music scene. With their unique blend of classical training, soulful melodies, and contemporary sounds, SistaStrings have established themselves as a formidable force within the an ever-widening music community. The duo was just voted “best instrumentalist” for the Americana Music Associations 2023 honors. Born and raised in nearby Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Chauntee & Monique discovered their love for music at a young age. Growing up in a musically inclined family, the sisters were exposed to a diverse range of genres and instruments. Chauntee found her calling as a violinist, while Monique developed her skills as a cellist. Together, they embarked on a remarkable journey, fusing their classical training with their deep-rooted love for R&B, hip-hop, and gospel. As members of Brandi Carlile’s touring band, SistaStrings have performed at iconic venues such as Madison Square Garden, The Kennedy Center, Newport Folk Festival and even Saturday Night Live. They have performed with an eclectic array of artists such as Joni Mitchell, Ed Sheeran, Maggie Rogers, Margo Price, Allison Russell & Jason Isbell.
I had a really great time chatting with Chauntee and Monique ahead of their November 21st event at the Stoughton Opera House. We talked about the way the event will shape up, with the music, the stories and the emotions all interconnected in the community of it all. I wanted to walk in their shoes during some very cool happenings. The first was the amazing experience I can hardly even imagine being a part of, being able to play rare instruments at the Library of Congress. Say what?? Oh yes! This leads to all the feelings one could possibly have before a sinGle event. They get to name drop working with legends like Joni Mitchell, Elton John & even Chaka Khan. We talk about the inspiration and friendship with collaborator Peter Mulvey before and after the move to Nashville. Playing with friend of the program Allison Russell led to touring with Brandi Carlile and the hits have just kept on coming. So we discuss what it is about these collaborative experiences of multiple genres that allows them to ‘bring themselves’ to it. Then we laugh about ‘that time networking in New York’. Good time wanted..check on SistaStrings!
