Trish Imbrogno, Trish Plays Bass, Think of What You’ve Done

Trish Imbrogno Steps Into the Spotlight with ‘Think of What You’ve Done’

By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

For years, Trish Imbrogno has been the backbone, the subtle anchor, and the driving force behind countless performances as an in-demand upright bassist. Now, under her stage name Trish Plays Bass, she’s stepping into the well-deserved spotlight with her debut single, “Think of What You’ve Done,” a powerful prelude to her upcoming EP, Bluegrass Love Songs, Volume One. This release isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s a testament to a journey less traveled and a deeply personal exploration of love, loss, and the raw emotion inherent in bluegrass.

“Think of What You’ve Done” is the first taste of what promises to be a compelling EP. Imbrogno has assembled a formidable lineup of women in bluegrass, creating a supergroup of talent that elevates her debut. Becky Buller (fiddle), Murphy Henry (banjo/vocals), Rainy Miatke (mandolin), and Dede Wyland (guitar/vocals) join Trish, whose signature upright bass work and emotionally resonant vocals take center stage. The collaboration is electric, promising a rich, layered sound that highlights each musician’s prowess while showcasing Trish’s unique voice.

Trish explains the EP’s origins with a disarming honesty: “These are all tunes I’ve been singing for a while. I’ve always gravitated toward the love songs—maybe even the darker ones. They just felt like the most honest place to start.” This candid approach is what will likely draw listeners in. It’s not about flashy theatrics but about stripping down to the core of human emotion, delivered through the timeless authenticity of bluegrass. By focusing on the “darker” shades of love, Imbrogno hints at a depth that goes beyond typical romantic ballads, promising a nuanced and relatable experience for anyone who has navigated the complexities of the heart.

Imbrogno’s path to bluegrass is as unique as her sound. Her musical foundation was built on classical training, starting with the bass at age 14. She refined her craft under the tutelage of renowned classical players such as Jeffrey Turner of the Pittsburgh Symphony, Curtis Burris of the National Symphony, and the legendary Missy Raines. After nearly 25 years immersed in the classical world, performing in concert blacks in prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall, Heinz Hall, and the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Trish made a bold pivot. She traded her orchestral scores for cowboy boots, fully embracing the vibrant rhythms and raw emotional power of American roots music. This transition wasn’t just a genre switch; it was a deeply personal evolution, allowing her to connect with music on a different, more visceral level.

Her diverse resume speaks volumes about her versatility and dedication. Beyond her classical achievements, she has recorded and performed with a variety of regional and national acts, including the Jakob’s Ferry Stragglers, Shameless Hex, and Emily Pinkerton. Currently, she continues to perform with the Sweaty Already String Band, Molly Alphabet Band, and the Grant Street Grifters, keeping her bass skills sharp and her musical collaborations dynamic.

As a 2018 graduate of IBMA’s Leadership Bluegrass program and a proud member of the Fishman artist family, Trish Imbrogno is not just a talented musician; she’s an active and respected member of the bluegrass community. Her debut single and the forthcoming Bluegrass Love Songs, Volume One EP represent a significant new chapter. This is more than just a release; it’s a culmination of decades of musical exploration, a heartfelt embrace of a new genre, and a powerful statement from one of Western Pennsylvania’s most compelling artists. Her ability to blend classical virtuosity with raw bluegrass emotion promises an exciting and unforgettable sound.