Laurie Michelle Caner (vocals, banjo, songwriting) is a homeschooling mom, a songwriter, and Ms. May in the 2015 Banjo Babes Calendar. She has been hailed as a role model for mothers who strive to honor their own artistic vision while continuing to raise a healthy family. Her banjo playing is of curious origin, but beautifully serves as a foundation for her lyrics. Laurie’s songwriting tells the story of life—with all of it’s beauty, heartache, disappointment and joy—weaving a musical tapestry that speaks the truth of love, life and the human condition.
Eddie Caner (violin, viola profunda) spent a dozen years performing as a sideman in national touring bands and orchestras, including Page & Plant, Luciano Pavarotti, Smokey Robinson, and Natalie Cole. Eddie always amazes the audience with his Hendrix-like tone and precision—he can soar beautifully over Laurie’s vocals or play a raucous, dirgy groove. He was once labeled by the legendary music critic Jane Scott as “the most versatile musician on the planet”. Eddie spends his free time as a physics instructor at Case Western Reserve University.
Bryan Thomas (bass) is a versatile and nationally well-respected musician. He studied Cuban music in Havana with Carlos Del Puerto, served as Ohio Arts Council guest artist-in-residence and toured as bassist with the Glenn Miller Orchestra. Bryan steals the show every time Hey Mavis performs. His playing is a wonderful body-rhythm-bass conversation, accented by his homemade “Chank-o-matic 6000”, a vintage, weathered tambourine affixed to a stand and pedal. Bryan currently holds the position of Bass Professor at Kent State University and is a sought-after clinician.
Anthony Taddeo is a drummer, composer and Out of the Drawer Percussion (ODP) performing artist. Anthony graduated with honors from The Newschool for Jazz and Contemporary Music in New York City and has performed with a wide variety of artists from all genres of music, including Melanie Charles, Nitzan Gavrieli, Rachel Brotman, and Tony & Grammy winner Steve Kazee.
www.heymavis.com
www.npr.org/event/music/404945191/hey-mavis-on-mountain-stage