Chris Talley Trio

Chris Talley Armstrong has been picking the banjo since she was 13 years old. She started on the harmonica when she was only 5 years old, and currently plays over 25 instruments. She is well-known locally for her teaching, and nationally for her workshops and performances with The Chris Talley Trio. She sings lead, tenor and baritone.

Chris has won numerous banjo and fiddle contests, including the Illinois State Old Time Fiddle Championship, and the Illinois State Fair and ITCMA Illinois State Championships on both Banjo and Fiddle. She won her first ITCMA Illinois State Banjo Championship when she was just 14 years old. She also won SPGMA's Most Promising Banjo Player 16 and Under.

Chris has taught and co-taught fiddle & banjo workshops in the US and Canada, including a Band Camp in Springfield, IL with Pete Wernick. Some of her performances include a banjo duet with Alan Munde and Joe Carr at South Plains College in Levelland, Texas; the Sheldon Theatre in St. Louis; playing with Charlie Louvin at the Louvin Brothers Museum in Nashville; and playing back stage at the Grand Ol' Opry.

Zane Prosser grew up playing country music. His father, Vernon, was a fiddle and guitar player and singer. His mother, Ida, taught Zane many of the melodies to old songs. Zane starting playing bluegrass music in the 1970's. He is well-known for his Hank Williams' songs, his superb yodelling, and his fine rhythm guitar playing. In addition to the guitar, Zane also plays the mandolin, fiddle, upright bass and harmonica. He has played with many fine bands over the years, including 17 years as the lead vocalist and guitar player for the "Over the Hill Gang." He is a fine singer and song writer.

Carla Steinkoetter is the solid beat behind The Chris Talley Trio. She brings with her more than 30 years of expertise, having played with several different bands throughout the years. She has also backed many fiddle and banjo contestants, including Allison Krauss. Carla's bass playing is far from typical. She has a complete knowledge of the instrument, and incorporates many runs into her rock-solid rhythm. Carla has a lovely voice, and sings lead vocals with the band.

Emily Hall is the newest member of The Chris Talley Trio. Don't let her young age fool you into thinking she can't pull her own weight! Emily does a fantastic job playing the mandolin and banjo with the trio. She has a beautiful voice, and sings lead and harmony vocals with the band. In addition to the playing the mandolin and banjo, Emily also plays piano, guitar, upright bass and fiddle.