Clan McLeod Pipe Band

Colin Macleod -Celtic Fiddler with Scottish Lilt

Evelyn's Secret

Jamie McKinnon

Maria Forde

Newport Bush Orchestra

ANIAR means “from the west” and is the name of this exciting new band from the South West of Victoria, Australia. Aniar mix original songs and Celtic tunes with the sounds of the globe. Featuring the beautiful and haunting vocals of Gemma Belfrage and Airlie Tait’s flamboyant flute playing plus a driving rhythm section (Don Stewart – guitar and bouzouki, Andrew Hallett – acoustic bass, Gemma Belfrage – djembe), Aniar reinterpret the traditional and blend it with contemporary songs about Australian life to create music that is poignant, uplifting and a lot of fun. www.aniar.com.au

The Barleyshakes

The Barleyshakes Brewed in Ireland and distilled in Australia the Barleyshakes are an exciting five piece Celtic band who present both traditional, original and world music in a modern format. Using fiddles, flutes, bass, drums, guitar and vocals the Shakes are a collaboration of Irish, Australian, and American performers. The Barleyshakes music can be soulful, gentle, at times haunting and then explosive, sonic boom Irish dance grooves are let loose but always in the name of the great tradition of Irish music. www.barleyshakes.com

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Bhan Tre

Bhan Tre is an exciting female acoustic trio with a huge repertoire of traditional Irish tunes. Presenting a fantastic selection of lively original songs with a Celtic flavour.

Bhan Tre's lineup includes -

Geraldine Davis - Vocals, Guitar & Bodhran
Born in Greystones, Co Wicklow Ireland. Geraldine migrated to Australia with her family when she was 8 years old. Her early musical influences came from her mother who taught her many traditional ballads. It was this exposure which instilled a love of her Irish heritage and encouraged her to explore Celtic music further.

Sue Foley - Vocals, Bodhran & Tin Whistle
Born in Bendigo Australia. Sue was encouraged to follow a career in music by well known vocal teacher Mavis Webster, with whom she studied until leaving Bendigo in 1982 to continue her classical studies at the Victoria College of Arts with Dame Joan Hammond.

During her years in Melbourne, Sue became increasingly interested in the Irish music scene in the late 80's. Sue was drawn to the music and was inspired by numerous trips to Ireland. Sue sang for 3 years with Ceili Brogue before joining Bhan Tre.

Rebecca Nita - Vocals & fiddle
Raised in New South Wales, Rebecca comes from a musical family who encouraged her interest in the fiddle. In fact the instrument Rebecca learnt to play on was handed down to her from her great uncle.

Her mothers interest in playing piano accordion and irish music was a great inspiration. Rebecca has played previously in a number of celtic and folk bands. After moving to melbourne in 1997, Rebecca received tuition in traditional Irish fiddle playing from Helen O'Shea. www.bhantre.com

Black Forest Rogues

Black Forest Rogues are Simon Leverton (guitar and vocals), Mandy Murdoch (fiddle), Zoe Moran (flute) and Linda Dunstan (mandolin). Occasionally joined by Heather Cummins on fiddle. The Rogues mostly play gigs around the Macedon Ranges, and provide the core for the monthly Sunday afternoon session at Holgate’s Brewhouse in Woodend. Playing celtic tunes sets with strong rhythmic backing, and throwing in the occasional song for good measure, the Rogues will play and sing the favorites, and a few other to boot. Jigs, reels, polkas – you name it.

Braemar

Braemar Based in Melbourne, Braemar, consisting of Eddie Lewis and Marc de Rijk, is undoubtedly one of Australia’s best Celtic duos delighting audiences around the country with an impressive performance resumé of classic Scottish and Irish songs. The duo is renowned for lavish harmonies and for its “passionate commitment ….. to continuing the tradition of the Celtic diaspora”. (Source: www.tradandnow.com)

At the Beechworth Celtic Festival in November 2007, Braemar mesmerised full houses at the Town Hall for two performances of **‘Lochaber No More’, a history of the Jacobite rebellions and the aftermath told in narrative and song. Reflecting the outstanding performance, the show received a standing ovation on each occasion and there ‘was hardly a dry eye in the house’ such was the stirring of patriotic raw emotion. The Scottish Australian Heritage Council is eager to support a performance of the show in Sydney in the near future and Braemar anticipates **‘Lochaber No More’ will be performed at Folk and Celtic festivals throughout the nation in 2008/9. Braemar was formed in early 2004 and since then has performed everywhere from the Australian Celtic Festival at Glen Innes to the pre-match national anthem slot at a Wallabies v Scotland Rugby Union Test to entertaining Prince Edward during the Melbourne Commonwealth Games. The duo receives critical acclaim from audiences and peers alike – in 2007, Braemar received a standing ovation for a performance at the Kapunda Celtic Festival – a member of the organising committee commented that such an ovation was a first for that festival, the longest running Celtic festival in Australia.

The duo prides itself that Braemar was approached to support the City of Glasgow’s bid for the 2014 Commonwealth Games and provided entertainment at numerous civic occasions – the bid was successful and even the Lord Provost of Glasgow, Liz Cameron, might agree that Braemar had some small part to play in Glasgow’s victory! Braemar’s albums, Beirt Leaids (2004) and Eire and Alba, Songs of the Gael (2006) were exceptionally well received by fans and critics alike. The pair plans to record a ‘theme’ album of **‘Lochaber No More’ later in 2008 – watch this space. Traditional music – a new take on a classic story - contemporary sound, look and style – for what more could you ask? “.. the tradition is in the safe hands of Braemar, and long may it continue.” (Source: www.tradandnow.com) **‘Lochaber No More’ was performed at La Trobe University, Bundoora Campus in Melbourne in October 2007 and at the Beechworth Celtic Festival in November 2007 “Highlight for us, and judging by the crowds in the hall and their standing ovation, the highlight for many others as well, was “Lochaber No More …….” “Excellent. Well done!! Wonderful production of a very sad time for us Scots! NORMA McPHERSON, RADIO PORT PHILLIP (3RPP)

“Opening sequence was haunting and fantastic – you guys seem to be in perfect harmony to me – great to listen to. Acoustic guitars sounded great as did all other instruments. Singing was also great, narration was perfect – clear and meaningful. TONY BURROWS. Dullard School of Irish Dancing Dullard School of I.D has been established in central Vic – Bendigo for 12 yrs. They are Irish Dancers who perform regularly in Melbourne and at various fetes, festivals and functions. The dancers demonstrate a vibrant mix of old and new styles of celtic dance. The exuberance of their youth, combined with their choice of music is infectious. www.braemar.info

Colin MacLeod - Celtic Fiddler With Scottish Lilt

Colin's musical journey started at the age of seven when a music teacher asked a class of primary school pupils, 'Who would like to play the violin?' The first memory of playing a Scottish song by ear was one which had been learnt from a record. During the early years, Scottish music held pride of place beside its classical counterpart, both of which egged on the other to aspire to a higher standard of play. This was the case throughout high school. After high school, the love of Scottish music took over and the journey of expansion into bagpipe, ceilidh and Irish music began. Colin would be just at home playing in a concert hall, a pub session or at a ceilidh. Over the last nine years, the style has expanded to encompass South African rhythm as well as Australian Bush.
So, how did Colin develop his playing style? Well, the Scottish repertoire was influenced by playing with different Strathspey and Reel Societies, entering fiddle competitions, travel and having the opportunity to see some of the greats of the Scottish fiddle world e.g. Ron Gonella, Angus Cameron and Bill Cook live in concert. The classical upbringing is evident in Colin's fiddle technique and assists in producing the quality of sound which one hears. Rhythm as always, is present in an effervescent form.
Major fiddle influences to date have included Ron Gonella, Liz Carroll (Irish Fiddler), Roby Lakatos (Gypsy Violinist) and Haugaard and Hoirup (Danish fiddle and guitar duo). Somehow, as with a lot of other musicians, they each seem to make their instrument sing and sparkle within the realms of their distinctive styles and sounds.
Colin is currently based in Australia and audiences have enjoyed his musical moments in Europe, the US and South Africa.

Clan McLeod Pipe Band

The earliest records that mention a Clan MacLeod gathering is that of a Clan MacLeod gathering in Scots Church in 1913, so although there are no extant records of the foundation of the initial society, it would appear to have been operating around 1912. The Society was reformed as the Australasian Clan MacLeod Society in 1951 and it became the Victorian society in 1967. It has maintained a strong presence at the various regional highland games and always produces a few tables of members at the Annual Highland Ball. Victoria is proud to have its own MacLeod Pipe Band, which wears the yellow and red tartan of the MacLeod of the Lewes. The band is based in Bendigo and the pipe major is Max Morris. The society produces a regular newsletter informing members of the range of activities that are still available in this state where the Scots played such a major role in the first century of colonisation.
Present
The great success of the Bendigo team, which was lead by Rod and Heather McLeod, in running the International Clan MacLeod Gathering in Bendigo in April 1999, has resulted in a major rejuvenation of the Clan Society in Victoria. Rather than have all the executive living in the capital city, as is the case with all the other states, Victoria has lead the charge of decentralisation and now has regional sections based in several locations.

Dalriada

Dalriada "Fresh, lively and highly inventive, Dalriada give traditional Celtic roots music a fresh coat of Australian pop-rock paint and the result does wonders for the soul... We have got something serious here. " Rock N Reel Magazine, UK www.dalriada.com.au

Evelyn’s Secret

Evelyn’s Secret is a new band, whose members are formerly of Dram, the 2009 Paddy O’Neil Award band. They deliver original songs and original Celtic styled tunes, as well as traditional Celtic music played with exuberance and an engagingly original style. The members of Evelyn’s Secret have drawn an enthusiastic response from audiences this year at many concerts and festivals including Port Fairy and National Folk Festivals and the National and Kilmore Celtic Festivals. www.myspace.com/evelynssecret

Maria Forde

As an Irish- Australian, Maria Forde has always straddled both sides of her heritage in her song writing. Incorporating the sweet melodies, that are the trademark of the Irish musical heritage, with observations of Australia, along with her personal experiences, Maria has blossomed into one of Australia’s premier songwriters. Maria has an endless quest to improve her musicianship, her songwriting craft and the desire to communicate to the listener. Already blessed with an angelic voice, Maria has grown into a masterful interpreter of her own material, able to totally connect the feeling of the music and words to the emotion of the song. This alone sets her apart from so many singer/songwriters. Since relocating to Trentham, in rural Victoria, Maria has begun to incorporate more of the wonder and fragility of the Australian bush into her work. Throughout her career, Maria has toured constantly, performed at numerous festivals and built a solid and dedicated fan base, both in Australia, and internationally.

Jamie McKinnon Jamie.0031.jpg comes to the Echuca Moama Celtic Festival for the first

time this year. Singer with well known and loved Celtic band Loch Ard over a period of 10 years when they played all the major festivals and supported international bands such as Capercaile and Battlefield Band, Jamie then launched into a solo career and released 3 sell- out c.ds and then, with the likes of Colin MacLeod, Andrew Cooper, Rory Sinclair and Silé Coleman, two other c.ds of songs and tunes. The last of these, One For The Road, will be available at the festival.

Known for his passionate and warm voice, accompanied on 12 string guitar, and his wealth of stories to introduce his wide repertoire of Scottish traditional songs in the Corries style – and some Irish, humorous and pop classics – Jamie will delight his audiences and involve them in singing along and being part of the show. Performances not to be missed!

Newport Bush Orchestra

The Newport Bush Orchestra has been running since early 2006. Under the leadership of local musician Greg O'Leary, the Orchestra has developed an impressive reportoire of Australian traditonal tunes. New members are always welcome. The Orchestra performs regularly at the Newport Fiddle and Folk Club.

The Newport Bush Orchestra runs on a number of principles that make it different from a ‘classical’ orchestra:

All musicians, of all ages, are welcome, whether experienced or just starting out
There is no written music - all the tunes are learned by ear
Any musical instrument is welcome, but traditionally ‘bush instruments’ are used, e.g. fiddle, guitar, tin whistle, mandolin, bass, washboard, accordion, banjo, stick and black kettle...etc
The repertoire consists of traditional Australian dance tunes
Conductor

Greg O'Leary is a professional musician who has played with many folk and bush bands. He has also worked as a music teacher in schools. The success of a bush orchestra Greg led in 2004 with the Ringwood Folk Club inspired the Newport Fiddle and Folk Club to have a go too, and with some funding support from the Australian Folk Life Fund, the Newport Bush Orchestra was born.

As a conductor Greg has the ability to coach and encourage beginning musicians while inspiring more experienced musicians with his encyclopedic musical knowledge. Every tune has a story and Greg seems to know them all. His infectious enthusiasm unites a group of disparate musicians and instruments into an accomplished orchestra.

THE PLOUGHBOYS

Introducing a group of exceptional Australian musicians. In the realms of world class folk singers ‘Damian Howard’ draws on the musical influences of Damien Rice, David Grey, Neil Finn through to Amos Lee. "An awesome voice and talent with an impressive list of recording and performing credits.......the outstanding Mercy should be rated as one of the Australian songs of the year..."(David Connolly, Geelong Advertiser). As an emerging song writing force his songs have been sought by national and International acts. ‘Damian’ come’s together with one of Australia's most popular high-energy festival bands, the ‘Ploughboy’s, most often described as an Australian-Celtic/ Country/roots to Folk-Rock mix of the ‘Waterboys’witha touch of the ‘Pogues.’ "...Original-penned songs that reek of Ireland and the Australian landscape..." “The Ploughboys are a great band to watch. They seem to have a crowd of instant fans (like fish in the desert after rain, they magically appear) attracted by a swaggering and cheeky Aussie gregarious presence that raises the stakes with real passion.” (Jamie McKew Port Fairy FF Artistic Director.) This considerable talent becomes a powerful force in full flight, when their years of touring and recording, bring great songs, soaring vocals and excellent arrangements to an irresistible high, and is a performance that should be tasted, savored and definitely not missed! Ploughboys

Red Cat

Red Cat's genre is mainly contemporary Celtic, with favourites by Mary Black, Christy Moore, Luke Bloom, a few oldies, The Fureys etc, and a some originals; all very much with the Folk/Acoustic/Celtic feel.
Red Cat have made quite a name for themselves since forming early 2008 and have appeared with excellent reviews at several festivals so far this year. Please see the website for reviews and information. www.myspace.com/redcatoz