Preservation New Jersey is pleased to present Frances Catherine & Union County, a newly-formed band that focuses on Alison Krauss material and covers other material in her style. The band also performs original songs with a singer/songwriter sensibility and modern country lean. Original songs are written or co-written by Frances and guitarist and songwriter Harry Reilly. Fiddler Amy Zakar also accompanies on mandolin, bassist Bill Flemer also provides back up vocals, and drummer David Ross provides the foundation for the band both musically and organizationally. The band recently started performing in the New Jersey/New York area and plans to record soon. See more at francescatherineihling.com.

The Band

Frances Catherine Ihling (vocals, songwriter) In addition to Frances Catherine & Union County, Frances has organized Lullabies for Iris, a project of original and traditional lullabies. This project is Frances’ gift to her daughter Iris but is also intended to be shared as a way to help children living in difficult circumstances who might find some peace in the lullabies – children living in shelters, in hospitals, and with special needs. Frances is a graduate of Barnard College where she studied voice with Lynn Owen.

Harry Reilly (guitar, harmonica, songwriter) has been playing guitar and writing songs for over 40 years. Concentrating mostly on acoustic guitar, his influences include Stephen Stills, Lindsey Buckingham, and James Taylor to name a few. He writes songs in many different styles favoring country R&B, pop and blues.

Amy Zakar (violin, mandolin) is a second-generation musician hailing from New York City. She is versed in classical, folk fiddle, and jazz as well as klezmer. Ms. Zakar graduated from the Manhattan School of Music’s Preparatory Division, received her B.A. from Princeton University, and is a Masters candidate in music education at Westminster Choir College. In addition to being a nine-year member of the Klez Dispensers, Ms. Zakar also performs with Rum&Onions and lends her soulful stylings to the Yiddish Arts Trio. She has performed at Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, and Joe’s Pub. Ms. Zakar teaches violin in Princeton, NJ to students of all ages. She joined the violin faculty of KlezKanada in 2006.