Matt Downing to Larry Stephenson Band

The Larry Stephenson Band has announced Matt Downing as their new guitar player, stepping in for Nick Dauphinais who held down that position for many years.

Downing has worked as a bluegrass banjo and guitar player since he was in school, and has mastered mandolin and bass as well. From the time he was four years old Matt has been lured by the appeal of music. Growing up in the Texas panhandle, he fell in love with both bluegrass and western swing, especially after hearing Flatt & Scruggs for the first time as a boy.

Over the years he has had the opportunity to perform with several of his favorite country and bluegrass acts, like Melvin Goins, James King, Janie Fricke, Dolly Parton, and Charlie Louvin.

Now he is delighted to join up with Larry and his talented band, which also includes Derek Vaden on banjo, and Andy Brown on bass.

Matt tells us that he is rarin’ to go.

“I’m so excited to be part of Larry’s band! I grew up listening to his mandolin playing and his lead/tenor singing. I am looking forward to many years to come playing some g-runs and picking some good ol’ bluegrass music with The LSB!”

Larry’s new guitar man is currently living in central Texas, but is planning a move to Arkansas to be closer to the band.

You can check the Larry Stephenson Band schedule online.

Matt Downing to The Roys

The Roys have announced Matt Downing as their new banjo player. He is taking the spot recently vacated by Sterling Masat who left to accept a faculty position at South Plains College.

Matt has been with the group for a few weeks, and Lee Roy speaks highly of his contribution.

“We are so pleased to have as the newest part of our road family. He’s from Texas and is a great new addition. We look forward to introducing him and his great banjo work at our shows and the IBMA.”

For the short term at least, Matt will be splitting his time between Nashville and his home in Austin.

This week, however, he is with The Roys in Canada. You can follow their performance schedule online.

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