Bellebird began as a female acoustic duo formed in the deep south of New Zealand in 2007. The combination of Anna Van Riel and Jo Little’s solo talents created an eclectic and unique style of bluegrass music to entertain the masses. With beautiful vocal harmonies woven over a range of instrumental accompaniments, including guitar, bass, ukulele, flute, harmonica and kazoo, the duo perform an assortment of original and covered songs.
Since Bellebird’s formation in 2007 these southern songstress’s have made regular appearances on Invercargill’s CUE TV as well as preforming in various venues throughout Southland and Otago, opening touring artists such as Karen Hunter, Tim Guy, Paul McClaney, Age Prior and Luke Hurley.
At the end of 2008 the duo became a quartet with JR Richardson on Bass & Vocals and Michael Bradford on Mandolin & Accordion altogether Bellebird & The Handsome Gypsies. The quartet just completed a summer tour playing 34 venues in two months with raving reviews.