About Us
The Courtney Hollow Band met while attending the local bluegrass jam sessions and festivals held regularly throughout Central Virginia and all share a love of bluegrass music traditions. Now Celebrating 8 years together, the band consists of Bill Collins (guitar, lead and baritone vocals), Troy Gooding (mandolin, tenor and lead vocals), Tom Hogge (banjo, lead and baritone vocals), and James Hyler (upright bass). When the band first formed, they would often practice at Bill’s house in beautiful Courtney Hollow just outside of Madison, VA.
They have achieved quick success and local support, playing at local clubs, benefit shows, and outdoor events. The band has a hard driving, traditional bluegrass sound with excellent instrumentation and fine vocal harmonies. And they still rehearse in the shadows of the Blue Ridge mountains in Courtney Hollow every week, which is a real inspiration.
Guitar player, lead and baritone singer Bill Collins is originally from Michigan, but has been a Virginian since 1981. Bill lives at Courtney Hollow, near Madison VA. He enjoys playing bluegrass, old-time and traditional, Irish music, and has a particular appreciation for the Celtic roots of bluegrass music, as well as preserving its story-telling traditions. Bill’s solid rhythm and smooth vocals are the foundation for Courtney Hollow.
Mandolin player, tenor and lead singer Troy Gooding is also a resident of Madison, VA. Troy started playing bluegrass in the mid 70’s. He came back to bluegrass music after being away for 10 years, although after hearing him play, you wouldn’t know he had missed a day. Like Bill, Troy also enjoys playing old-time music. Troy’s clean picking style and high tenor add a new dimension to Courtney Hollow’s music.
Banjo player, lead and baritone singer Tom Hogge is originally from Gloucester County, VA, near the Chesapeake Bay. He now lives in beautiful Greene County, Virginia in the shadows of Shenandoah National Park. Tom’s singing and hard-driving banjo playing are integral to the unique Courtney Hollow sound.
Bass player James Hyler is originally from Patrick Springs, in gorgeous southwest Virginia, but now resides in northen Virginia. During the 80’s James was the host of a popular, bluegrass radio show. James has been a devoted fan of bluegrass music for many years. Playing bass in a working bluegrass band is a dream-come-true for James, and he does a fine job, too!
Courtney Hollow is an exciting, traditional bluegrass band. They rehearse and perform in the shadow of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and they are preserving the wonderful bluegrass traditions born in those mountains.
The band is available for festivals, fairs, club performances and private parties. You can contact us by email at this link: