ABOUT US Westley Harris, a music major at East
Originating in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, THE Barker BROTHERS are expanding the realm of their traditional roots.
All native to a region with a rich musical heritage, their fierce instrumentals will take you to the extremes; while their pure,
family harmony will enthrall you.
The groups high energy live
performance incorporates an
eclectic mix of hard driving
bluegrass, Americana, and folk,
as well as, their own innovative
material.
With dynamic, “on-the-edge” presentation and a musical heritage that can be traced back over five generations,
THE Barker BROTHERS are creating a new tradition in American acoustic
music. BROTHERS are creating a new tradition in American acoustic music.
Jeremy Barker, a senior at East Tennessee State University, has gained regional recognition for his vocal prowess, and he more than delivers on the flattop guitar. In 2002, Jeremy had the honor of opening for opening Dr. Ralph Stanley (and the Clinch Mountain Boys) during his
"O Brother Where Art Thou Tour."
barker_js@yahoo.com
Jonathan Barker, 17 years old,
accompanies his brother on vocals and
occasionally highlights his accomplishment
by taking lead. Vivacious on banjo,
Jonathan combines melodies and
improvisation to create his own dynamic
style. In 2002, Jonathan also opened for
Dr. Ralph Stanley during his
"O Brother Where Art Thou Tour."
In 2003, Jonathan received the "Fan's
Choice Award" at Raymond Fairchild's
Maggie Valley Opry.
barkerwj@yahoo.com
Tennessee State University, is a classically trained violinist and a prolific fiddler who plays with an intensity and drive all his own.
Westley was recently awarded a scholarship to tour Ireland and Scotland in the summer of 2011.
hwestley37@yahoo.com
On and off stage,
THE Barker BROTHERS are heartily supported by their parents.
Angie plays the upright bass, Scott plays mandolin, and they both contribute to the "family harmony" that resounds throughout their vocals.
Music has always played a significant role in THE Barker BROTHERS' family traditions.
John Barker Enjoyed playing the
fiddle and banjo as a
family pasttime.
Zora Dale Jones
and her sister Ruby,
visited churches and
prayer meetings sharing
the "good news" through
song. Their brother,
Selma, accompanied
them on guitar and
provided most of the
lead vocals.
Uncle Howard Verner (on bass)
The Pine Ridge Boys provided music for
area church services and local events.
Julius Milton Verner Sr.
"Pa Verner" directed
shape note singing
schools in east
Tennessee, western
North Carolina, and
the north Georgia
mountains.
Carrie Torrence Verner
"Ma Verner" accompanied
her sister and brother who
were a part of a gospel
quartet to all the area
Gospel Singing Conventions.
