Simona Uhereková

SIMONA: She keeps it rolling

Pronunciation: See-mow-nah Oo-hair-eck-o-vah

Simona Uhereková (Slovakia) is a banjo player, vocalist, and songwriter with a knack for blending bluegrass tradition with European flair. Her work with the bluegrass band Candy Floss, which she co-founded in 2004, was featured in the European Bluegrass Music Association (EBMA) newsletter #3, highlighting her role in promoting bluegrass music beyond its American roots.

Currently, Simona is a core member of the Slovak bluegrass band LTT, who are known for their rich harmonies, Slovak-language lyrics, and energetic performances.

Simona has become a respected figure in the European bluegrass community for her rhythmic clarity, melodic sensitivity, warm harmonies, original compositions, and dedication to the genre. Not only can she play hard-driving bluegrass at breakneck speed, she also tastefully incorporates the banjo in ballads using not standard chords or subtle melodic lines.

Beyond the stage, Simona is deeply involved in the bluegrass community—hosting fellow musicians, collaborating across borders, and helping to grow the genre in Slovakia and beyond. Her passion for music is matched by her dedication to sharing it with others, whether through performance or informal jam sessions.

Who are your heroes when it comes to bluegrass music?

“Alison Krauss & Union Station, Lonesome River Band, The Infamous Stringdusters, Blueland, Monogram.”

What do you love most about playing your instrument?

“I see banjo as a rhythmical instrument: either you put the band together or not. And it is great when you do! I also love to play slow songs and make the banjo sound pleasant, to just play it nicely (she smiles).”

Why are you excited to be in this band?

“The reason I joined this project is simple: you can’t say no to this kind of opportunity, to play with such great musicians.”