Borderdrive is creating a fresh and exhilarating sound unlike any other in the world of acoustic music. 1999 National Mandolin Champion, Anthony Hannigan and exciting new-comer, Jillian Brosnan founded the band “without borders” in order to create music not bound by the rules of any one style.  The Borderdrive Acoustic Music Experience combines swing, bluegrass, Celtic, ragtime, jazz, classical, Appalachian, and more into an original, captivating performance.

Anthony, an award winning mandolin player and multi-instrumentalist brings to the group a virtuostic and innovative style some compare to Chris Thile.  While Jillian adds the sparkling sounds of flute, pennywhistle, and a broad vocal range that give Borderdrive its unique sound.  The two incorporate a full band to accentuate their distinctive style.  Keep listening for the new and dazzling music of Borderdrive.

Anthony Hannigan (mandolin, guitar, banjo, fiddle, vocals) is the 1999 National Mandolin Champion and has been involved with music from the age of four.  He has recorded and performed with major artists for years.  Co-Mando named Anthony as one of the top mandolin players in the world and rated his mandolin workshop as one of the best in the country.  He is accomplished on the banjo, fiddle, and guitar as well as the mandolin and has been recognized as a talented songwriter worldwide. Anthony co-founded The Hickory Project, which showcased at the prestigious IBMA Convention in both 2002 and 2004.  He also has been an instructor at the renowned RockyGrass Academy and Augusta Heritage Center. Anthony’s influences range from Vassar Clements, Van Halen, Thelonious Monk, Joe Pass, Steve Moorse, Prince, Bill Monroe, Charlie Parker, Kenny Baker and even James Brown. Whether it is creating tunes, or performing with the band, Anthony will leave an impression lasting long after the performance is over.

Jillian Brosnan (flute, low and high whistles, vocals, upright bass) chose to play the flute because her parents wouldn’t allow her to practice the trumpet or drums in the house.  Almost twenty years later, she thanks her parents for helping her make the right choice.  Classically trained at George Mason University, Jillian was recognized as one of the best young flutists in Virginia four years in a row by the Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors Association.  Jillian’s influences, however, are much broader than her classical training.  She grew up singing along with Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, and other jazz greats.  She also formed a strong connection to Celtic music after discovering the pennywhistle.  She has been involved with many recording projects and has been performing professionally for years.  Jillian’s wide-ranging vocal ability, rock-solid bass rhythm and expert flute and whistle playing make for an outstanding performance.