In autumn, 2014, the Celtic Trio, Stone’s Throw, formed around a love of and desire to play Celtic Music with friends and fellow musicians. Since that time, the unique trio has become well-known regionally and regularly performs at receptions, weddings, church services, concerts, special programs, and Celtic events such as Highland games.
The musicians that makeup Stone’s Throw are Diana Stone - violin, Margaret Walters - flute, and Dr. Martha hill - Celtic harp. Although all three are classically trained and hold degrees in music, they love exploring the Irish and Scottish music of their heritage. They also play selections from other Celtic regions - Cape Breton, Wales, and the Isle of Man. For the past few years, Stone’s Throw has presented a holiday program blending traditional and Celtic Christmas music in celebration of “Old Christmas”, a lost Appalachian tradition that came to the mountains with the Scottish and Irish settlers.
Stone’s Throw has studied at Celtic Week at the Swannanoa Gathering, the Kruger Brothers Academy, and with the Kontras Quartet based in Chicago. They have received one-on-one ensemble coaching with Francois Henkins, violinist, of Kontras Quartet. In addition, they have received private coaching from national Scottish harping champion, Sue Richards. Stone’s Throw members also study individually with renowned classical and Celtic teachers in violin, flute, and harp.
In July, 2018 and 2019, Stone’s Throw won first place for the “Harp in Ensemble” competition at the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games, the largest Scottish Highland Games in the world.
In fall, 2018, Stone’s Throw released a Christmas CD, “Nollaig Chridheil”. Composer/arranger, Daniel Burton, said of the CD, “I enjoyed hearing your group’s artistry… and I admire you for your skills and musicianship.” California harpist and arranger, Verlene Schermer said, “Your trio did a wonderful job on all the tracks! I especially enjoyed hearing the ones based on my
arrangements. You give them wings!”
“Sunshine After the Storm”, a compilation of Celtic and original tunes, was completed during the Covid-19 pandemic and released in December, 2020.