Robbie is a native of Hendersonville, NC having lived in the area most of his life.  He is a graduate of Lees-Mc Rae College and UNC Chapel Hill.  He helps run the family business, Church Street Automotive, with his brother Larry.

Robbie was musically influenced early in life by singing in the church choir, learning harmonies and how to read music.  His musical interests expanded in junior high as he learned to play the alto sax and became exposed to all kinds of music from classical to pop.  However his primary musical interests have always leaned toward country music.  In his mid 40’s, he was given the thoughtful gift of a guitar, and his journey into stringed music began.   Robbie honed his craft by jamming in garages, and learning bluegrass favorites from folks like Kevin and Andrew Blythe, Kevin Case, Reese Combs, Patrick McDougal and many others.  These experiences propelled his love of bluegrass and prompted him to pick up the banjo as his primary instrument.  The joy and love of music and getting together with fiends to pick remains a highlight of his week.

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Instruments :  1977 Gibson RB-250

                     2004 Martin HD -28

 

Influences :  His Mom and anyone else who makes a joyful noise.