Published: January 05, 2009 11:19 am         

NEW: Sullivan County musician competes for chance to record with famed cellist

GRAYSVILLE — Teen mandolinist Solly Burton could land a recording gig with world-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma, if he wins an online contest.

Burton, a 17-year-old from Graysville, has played mandolin since his childhood. He’s won several state championships and recorded his first album, “Back Home Again,” last year at Nashville, Tenn.

Burton plays a variety of musical styles, from bluegrass to gypsy, swing, blues and gospel.

The contest — “Celebrate and Collaborate with Yo-Yo Ma” — is conducted by Indaba Music, and offers entrants the chance to perform alongside the cello master. Burton and other entrants have submitted, online, their own “virtual” accompaniment to Yo-Yo’s recording of the traditional song “Dona Nobis Pacem (Give Us Peace).”

The public can vote online for their favorite virtual accompaniment.

To hear Burton’s version and vote, click here. The deadline is Jan. 19.