SistaStrings is a incredibly dynamic musical duo comprised of dynamic artists and sisters, Chauntee and Monique Ross, whose exceptional talent and versatility has made a profound impact on multiple music scenes. With their unique blend of classical training, heartfelt and heart-shared soulful melodies, and contemporary, even unique sounds, SistaStrings have established themselves as a formidable force within the an ever-widening music community. The duo was recently voted “best instrumentalists” for the Americana Music Associations 2023 honors. Born and raised in nearby Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Chauntee and Monique discovered their love for music at a extremely 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 ended up developing her skills as a cellist. Together, they embarked on a remarkable journey, fusing their classical training with their deep-rooted love for Rhythm and Blues, 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.
Sometimes when the phone gets picked up to start a conversation with artists, I immediately feel like we’ve done this before and any nerves just disappear. This was one of those times. 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 shared emotions all interconnected in the community of it all. I wanted to walk in their shoes during some very cool happenings. So we got into what’s been going on. The first time I wanted to tie their laces tight 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 time to name drop working with legends like Joni Mitchell, Elton John and Chaka Khan. We talk about the inspiration and friendship they’ve been able to foster with collaborator Peter Mulvey before and after their 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. It would be hard to find two better people to get to have these a part of their life’s stories. 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’. I am so looking forward to the next time the phone rings and it is SistaStrings catching up with all the next first times they’ve shared in.
