The Wild Berry Pickers: About Us

We call ourselves the Wild Berry Pickers, not to be confused with wildberry pickers; we don't pick berries, but rather, tunes. We play an assortment of music primarily composed of bluegrass and folk music. We are a family band and enjoy working together in performing for the community and at various events. Before getting into this genre of music, all five of us played violin and were taught classical music with the Suzuki approach taught by Pat Yearian. She gave us the skills and interest that we would need for the future. We were taught music theory during our lessons, and in orchestra at the middle school and high school.

Meigan and Alex both took vocal lessons from Leslie Lewis and the skills she gave them definitely helped make our band more successful.

In 2011, more than two years before the band was formed, Alex, the oldest member started to learn the mandolin from Chet Rideout. He learned not only how to pick out tunes, but also how to play chords and harmony by ear. One year later, Meigan, the second oldest band member started learning the guitar with Lynn Rideout. She also learned chords and tablature. in the summer of 2013, Alex learned the 5-string Banjo, starting with roll-patterns, then advancing with frailing strumming pattern.

Near the end of the year of 2013, the band was created unofficially. Kailee and Leianna learned how to play the ukulele, and Jason began his lessons on the Mandolin. After a few minor performances, we took a break from music when we went on vacation to Washington, DC through Christmas break. Upon our arrival home, our teacher surprised us with a home made tub bass (as pictured below). Because it is homemade, it doesn't necessarily look pretty (sorry Chet), but it definitely makes up for that feature in terms of sound and sparking interest and curiosity in people. With this additional instrument, Jason, Leianna and Kailee all three jumped at the opportunity.

On March 16th of 2014, we played at our local Stars of Tomorrow competition. That was the official beginning for our band, the Wild Berry Pickers. Since then, we have been playing at various events and gatherings, such as violin recitals, church events, Turtle Bluff Gala, and busking in downtown Port Townsend for visiting and local fans.

That is all for now. We have a page on Facebook that will provide updates for upcoming performances. So "like it" up and you will receive notifications.

Here are some pictures of us doing things besides playing music!

Family photo: