THE WALKER FAMILY aka The RedHead Express are equally at home playing straight forward bluegrass as they are playing their own unique renditions of old timey and gospel . This wholesome family showcases their four young daughters’ beautiful harmonies, original songs, and increasing musical maturity while mom and dad add vocal depth, backup, and guidance to the ensemble. Three talented young boys at the end round out the family band. Audiences are wowed by the energy, maturity and skill level of this young family. It’s fun to watch instruments change hands, leads take turns, and just watching a family interact on stage is a rich, rewarding experience. The Walkers are doing what they love…together.

THEIR JOURNEY BEGAN in the fall of 2006. where they were first introduced to the world of bluegrass by their teacher and mentor, Jason Norris, of Bearfoot Band. With the help of Voice Coach/Producer, Kathy Chiavola, the Walkers have rapidly excelled and become a polished, professional bluegrass band. After spending about a year playing all over Alaska, the family unanimously agreed to rent out their new dream home for a bigger dream of following their love of music. They sold all their belongings, bought an RV, and headed south. Alaska is still home, but they yearn to learn and grow and share their music.

THEIR FIRST TOUR out during 2007/2008 was focused mostly on the south, where the heart of bluegrass is, with overwhelming success. They enjoyed showcasing in Virginia at Floyd’s Country Store and the Carter Family Museum; Leanna Bluegrass in Nashville; The Palatka Florida Bluegrass Festival; the historic John C. Campbell Folk School; Country Roots Radio Show for WCQS in Asheville, North Carolina; and countless Opry Houses for bluegrass organizations in Georgia, North and South Carolina, and Texas. The band also spent two months in Nashville, studying with Kathy Chiavola. Kathy also produced their latest Demo CD, which is the beginning of a new full length CD to be released Winter 2008. Expect to hear several new originals written by Kendra, the eldest daughter.

REDHEAD EXPRESS is excited to share their love of music and family! They can tailor their show to your needs, playing traditional bluegrass, old timey, gospel, or a variety show. In the right venue, they’ll even get out on the floor and flat foot with the crowd! The Walker family is committed to sharing their love of traditional Appalachian and bluegrass music with children. They are members of IBMA and support the Bluegrass in the Schools program through their own workshops for children.

BIO'S (Hover over an image to view.)

Apryll says she married Brett because he sang that great Elvis tune, ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love With You’ to her on their first date. His soulful, rich bass voice has had her hooked 19 years now! Brett sings lead, bass and low tenor harmony in the family band.

Apryll gained her love for music from her parents. She grew up playing violin and piano, and she learned to harmonize singing with her two sisters. Her mother always dreamed of having a family band, and now Apryll has made that a reality in her own family. She plays rhythm guitar in the band and adds depth to their vocals with her broad range from low baritone to high tenor.

Kendra, 18, attends college online so she can travel with the band. She has an extensive background in jazz singing, winning many awards in High School. Her richness and warmth, mixed with jazz and blues, creates a very unique sound, breathing new life to old songs. People have compared her voice to the likes of Alison Krauss and Eva Cassidy, mixed together. Sweet, but sassy! Kendra plays lead guitar and fiddle in the band. She writes many of their original songs.

LaRae, 17, is in her last year of High School. She is accomplished at the banjo, playing the old frailing style as well as Scruggs’ 3 finger. She can make a banjo sound ‘pretty’ or brassy! LaRae also plays fiddle and adds her lovely high tenor voice to the band. LaRae is best known for her beautiful smile. How many people can pick banjo and smile at the same time?!

Alisa, 15, is a Sophomore in High School, bursting with talent and energy. She lights the stage on fire with her presence! Alisa loves music, and she loves to share it. She taught herself to yodel, listening to old country songs. She plays fiddle in the band, but her true love is mandolin, mielding the styles of Ricky Skaggs, Jesse McReynolds and other great players with her own flair. Alisa’s voice has been compared to Loretta Lynn. She sings low baritone with maturity beyond her years. Another one with an eternal smile.

Meghan, 12, is an incredible, young bass player! She is the solid, steady heartbeat of the band. Her style is rapidly changing, thanks to the influence of her favorite bass player, Mike Bub. She has a sweet, high tenor voice. Meghan may be quiet, but don’t let that fool you. She’s not shy!

Sean, 9; Joseph, 7; Ammon, 6; are quickly catching up to their sisters! They’ve only been playing for about 6 months, but they have great teachers in Mom and sisters. They’ll play for you an old fiddle tune, or they may sing about a Pretty Girl in the County- in harmony, with that beautiful tone that only young male voices can create!