Ross Smithard is a virtuoso multi-instrumentalist who seamlessly blends fiddle, guitar, banjo, and harmonica into a captivating sound all his own. A familiar face on the Tasmanian music circuit, Ross has performed with some of the country’s most celebrated blues, roots, jazz, and folk artists, leaving a lasting impression wherever he plays.

Ross teams up with other musicians to make combos from duo to 5pce bands you will want to see, find more info here...

Ross Smithard & GB Balding are a powerhouse duo, bringing the soul of fingerpicking blues, ragtime, and delta blues to life with fiery passion and masterful musicianship.

Gerry, one of Tasmania’s finest guitarists, has been captivating audiences for decades with his intricate fingerstyle technique, playing everything from intimate pubs to the hidden corners of Hobart’s vibrant music scene. Alongside his own bands, he’s shared the stage with some of the region's most legendary blues musicians, cementing his place as a cornerstone of Tasmanian roots music.

Together, Gerry and Ross create an unforgettable musical experience, combining their unique styles to deliver a lively mix of fingerpicking blues, infectious ragtime rhythms, and timeless grooves. With Gerry on guitar and slide guitar and Ross adding his unmistakable fiddle, they bring a fresh energy to classic tunes and keep the spirit of old-time blues alive and kicking. Whether it's a dusty backstreet or a packed club, their sound is sure to move you.

Ross Smithard and Esther Cooke create an engaging, relaxed experience for the listener, one where they can sit back and enjoy. They play because we love it and it shows. Enchanting, effortless, emotional vocals and diverse, folk and bluesy tunes.  Ross is a multi-instrumentalist playing guitar, banjo, fiddle and harmonica for over 40 years, with an excellent reputation for professionalism and versatility. Esther’s vocal style ranges from delicate intimacy to raw power, evocative of the soul filled, spiritual sounds of early female blues performers. They excel in live performance, comfortably bouncing off each other’s energy and are extremely popular with locals and tourists alike packing out venues.

Ross Smithard and the Up Jumped Trouble’s performance features a fusion of Ross's award winning original Appalachian-style fiddle tunes and captivating renditions of traditional mountain songs and tunes. In our concert sets, Ross's blazing fiddle takes center stage, accompanied by Annette's skillful clawhammer banjo playing with Margaret's driving rhythm on guitar and Jackie's percussive banjo uke adding depth and energy to the sound. Ross and Jackie on vocals. With toe-tapping, foot-stomping tunes our performance promises an unforgettable experience for all music lovers.

But the fun doesn't stop at the music! Get ready to join in on our lively dance sessions, where Ross will guide you through traditional bush, and barn dances. You’ll be spinning, twirling, and laughing as we bring joy and camaraderie to every step, whether we're dancing indoors or out.

With decades of experience performing at festivals both in Tasmania and on the mainland, community events, corporate functions, and private parties, Ross and the band bring a wealth of passion and expertise to every show. From Mona to Willie Smiths, from the Franklin Folk Club to the Cygnet Folk Festival, we’ve entertained audiences across Tasmania and beyond, sharing our deep love for folk music and spreading infectious enthusiasm wherever we go.