Stringed Union to perform at 87th Annual Meeting
Rooted deep in the Ozarks and grounded in faith, friendship, and fine musicianship, Stringed Union is a Missouri bluegrass band devoted to preserving and sharing the heart of bluegrass gospel music. Led by Sharry Lovan, the band was formed in 2011 and brings together seasoned performers who share a love for traditional bluegrass and a passion for the stage.
Sharry Lovan – Founder, Bass & Lead Vocals
From Willow Springs, Missouri, Sharry serves as band leader, manager, bass player, and lead/harmony vocalist. She began her musical journey performing bluegrass gospel with her family group, traveling from church to church. She has performed multiple sessions at Silver Dollar City with Stringed Union during the Bluegrass & Barbecue Festival. A gifted songwriter in the bluegrass gospel genre, Sharry loves sharing her original music wherever the band performs.
Alan Strickland – Banjo & Vocals
Hailing from West Plains, Missouri, Alan is known for his driving banjo riffs and strong vocals. Alan began playing music at age 19, first on guitar before finding his true calling on the banjo. Over the years, he has performed with numerous bands before joining Stringed Union—a partnership the group considers a true blessing.
Gene Collins – Guitar & Vocals
From Ozark, Missouri, Gene plays guitar and sings lead and harmony for Stringed Union. Gene joined the band in 2017, bringing with him a lifetime of musical experience. He began playing guitar at just eight years old, and the instrument has been central to his life ever since. His style is widely respected throughout the bluegrass community, and he is known not only as a fine musician but also as a loyal friend.
Rory Ezell – Mandolin & Multi-Instrumentalist
With more than 35 years of experience, Rory of Grassy, Missouri, brings depth and versatility to the band. Rory began learning guitar at age five with his father and picked up the mandolin at 12. A talented multi-instrumentalist, Rory enjoys jam sessions, workshops, and sharing laughs with friends and family. Passionate about performing, Rory is always thrilled to take the stage and represent bluegrass music with excellence.
Together, the members of Stringed Union blend experience, harmony, and heartfelt faith into every performance.
The 87th Annual Meeting of Members will be held on Friday, May 1, 2026 at the West Plains Civic Center. Registration begins at 4:30 p.m. and entertainment begins at 5 p.m. Come out and enjoy the musical sound of Stringed Union.
