2019 Performers List Coming Soon
2018 List of Performers
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Alison DemeterSinger, songwriter, storyteller. Western, Celtic, folk. Calgary based performer Alison Demeter is grateful for the opportunity to once again connect with and celebrate her Scottish, English and Irish ancestry in story and song. www.reverbnation.com/alisondemeter
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Alison Demeter & Doug BakerAfter years of intention, Alison Demeter and Doug Baker have come together to weave voices and instruments into an interesting array of original and familiar songs. Alison and Doug have each been part of the music community in Calgary for a number of years. Together, their complementary vocal and instrumental skills combine to prove that musical collaboration is greater than the sum of the parts.
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Alvin MooreFingerstyle Guitarist Alvin Moore plays instrumental Celtic, Bluegrass, Spanish, Jazz, Pop and music from around the world. He performs at folk clubs, corporate events, festivals and weddings. Simon Larouche will be joining him on the Conga drums.
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Alyse McLeodAlyse McLeod is a Cree/Métis Visual and Performing Artist. Alyse reflects her diverse roots going back to contact and beyond and can trace her heritage in all areas of Canadian history. Alyse is a direct decendant of the McLeod’s, McKenzie’s and Campbell’s. Proud to be Métis is a banner she proudly waves, as she shares this ancestry with the Riel and Dumont, families to only touch on a few. Alyse is a descendant of the great surveyor Peter Fidler; the Pauls’ and Deschamps’ of Passpasschase Reserve; the Fletts; the Bears; the Brazeaus; Boyers of Muskeg Lake Reserve; and the Mohawk line of Marie Nippissing and Thomas Gray from St. Regis Reserve (Mohawk Indian Reservation, Franklin County, New York, USA), “Keepers Of The Eastern Door.” Alyse can also trace her roots to those who fought at the Battle of Seven Oaks; the Métis “Resistance” in the Battle of Batoche; Veterans of WWI and WWII; to the Filles du Roi; and Jacques Enaud dit Canada, one of the founding families of New France. Alyse’s intriguing heritage is reflected in her work as a Métis recording artist, singer/songwriter, actress, visual artist, and author. Alyse has been featured on APTN and on radio, performed and/or spoken at numerous concert halls, theatres, Universities, “Back To Batoche Days”, Festivals, and the Calgary Stampede to name a few. Alyse founded Blue Lantern as a direct result of her own needs as an artist and performer. Her vision provides other artists with a way to present their work and achieve their goals. With the creativity of the "Artist’s Soul,” Alyse melds together the passion and romance of the story and the song. It is from this "Artist's Soul" that she is aware of the challenges and obstacles that are intertwined in the pursuit of a dream.
For more information please contact: alysemcleod.ca or bluelantern@shaw.cabluelantern@shaw.ca. |
Backbeat Irish Dancers
Backbeat Irish Dancers are high-level competitors and experienced performers. We offer a professional show that celebrates traditional Irish dance (made famous by shows like Riverdance & Lord of the Dance), with a modern twist. Backbeat is available for corporate and private functions and offers ticketed performances in the southern Alberta area.
Backbeat Irish Dancers are students at the Possak Hampshire Academy who all hail from Okotoks, Calgary, Lethbridge, and the southern Alberta area. The current cast includes internationally-ranked dancers and dancers that have placed in the top three in Western Canada and the top fifteen in North America.
Backbeat Irish Dancers are students at the Possak Hampshire Academy who all hail from Okotoks, Calgary, Lethbridge, and the southern Alberta area. The current cast includes internationally-ranked dancers and dancers that have placed in the top three in Western Canada and the top fifteen in North America.
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Barry LuftBarry Luft’s singing has woven rich, colourful threads into the fabric of folk-style music in Alberta for more than fifty years. Barry presents Canadian, British and American songs and ballads with instrumental accompaniment or acappella arrangements. Good times leave good memories. However, to this day Barry claims he’s not able to read music well enough to hurt his playing. www.BarryLuft.com
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Bob ChartierBob Chartier, a true late bloomer, has performed in venues such as the Ness Creek Bluegrass and Old Tyme Festival and the Water Valley Festival. He has placed in the top five of both the Ship and Anchor and the ATB songwriter competitions. He was a founder of the Music Mile in Calgary and hosts the Songwriters in the Round at the Gravity Café on the Music Mile in Inglewood. He has a number of peripatetic music accomplices (The Coffee Row Orchestra) who try to make him look good… Bob is a singer songwriter and performs many of his own songs as well as a variety of Roots/Americana type songs. He is partial to gospel but stops at taking up a collection.
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Brian Sullivan
First instrument was piano, but easier to haul around guitars, harmonicas, and assorted noise-makers (no, not kids!), song-writing, satire; finger-picking; been demonized for changing words to familiar tunes a la Weird Al. Various musical genres, from classical to pub songs. Never been east of Newfoundland, but that could change soon!
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Brian VolkeBrian Volke has been playing guitar since the age of nine. Inspired by the Monkees he wrote his first song in Grade Three. Since then his musical wanderings have led him through rock and country and into Celtic folk and back to rock again. He is the lead singer and main guitarist for the roots band My Son Ted, Their most recent CD is entitled “Carmel’s Parlour”.
Brian also likes to play solo and has found his songwriting to be going in all sorts of different directions. He’s been practicing to be a good flatpicker and writes quirky songs about who and what he knows. In his musical lifetime Brian has performed at the Regina Folk Festival, opened for the Irish Descendents and the Chieftains, and best of all, has been backed up by Rik Emmett of Triumph. Ask him about that experience! |
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CaisealCaiseal (noun, Irish Gaelic)
Pronunciation: “C0SH-ul” 1. Stone fort 2. (chess) rook, castle 3. Band name of a trio of musicians living and performing songs and tunes in Calgary, Alberta. All hail from different parts of Ireland: Simon Colgan (guitar, whistle) is from County Down, Anne Cowman (accordion) is from Meath, and Greg O’Neill (bouzouki, banjo) is from Waterford. |
Calgary Burns Club Choir
The Singers are all members of the Calgary Burns Club, who sing the songs of Robert Burns and other traditional songs of Scotland. We perform at Burns Club functions, seniors residences, Spruce Meadows and various other venues, and to date the group has put out 3 CDs. The backing music is recorded on CDs under the direction of the Calgary Burns Club and the group, which numbers up to 25 singers, is lead by Ron Pratt.
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CeltaraCeltara hails from Edmonton, and with fiddle, flutes and whistles, accordion and piano, guitar and bouzouki, bodhran, percussion and voices, will serve up some fine traditional and contemporary Celtic music from all over! Bonnie Gregory, Tami Cooper, Steve Bell, Andreas Illig and Mark Arnison are delighted to bring along their brand new and long-awaited third album, titled "Seven Long Years" to the 20th Water Valley Celtic Festival! Look for it at the merch tent. Congrats and hearty thanks to Dave Settles and all of the organisers for 20 years of great music and fun!!
www.celtara.com |
Ceòl and Friends
mphasis is on Celtic melodies and songs (ceòl – Gaelic for music) along with other favourites. Ceòl’s members and friends are Dave Foster (vocals and keyboard), Loretta Butot(recorders); and on fiddle: Shirlee Smith Matheson, Ray Brown, Ken Scott, Sid Leggett, Michele desRamaux and Darron Peardon.
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Christie SimmonsChristie Simmons – alongside multi-instrumentalist Steve Goodchild (banjo, bouzouki, cittern, dobro, guitars, mandolin…) and bassist, Rob McConnell – is a singer/songwriter whose acoustic offering is sweet prairie Celtic with a little country, traditional folk with a twist of Americana. The trio offer up fine harmonies, feisty arrangements, passionate performances and an array of thoughtful, compelling, originals.
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Cochrane Pipe BandThe Cochrane Pipe Band is a local band who performs Celtic music with bagpipes and drums. They are available for hire at weddings, parades, community events and funerals. To book call the manager at 403-932-2228 or e-mailinfo@cochranepipeband.cainfo@cochranepipeband.ca
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Confederation Park Ukulele GroupOur numbers have grown as this pastime is becoming very popular. We now number some 60 Strummers in our group. We play out of Rosemont Hall in Confederation Park.
We play and sing songs from many genres but mostly the happy songs that people can sing along with. Our members are: Rick Staple, Rj Murray, Suzanne Tenold, Ellen Yeung, George Yeung, Ron French, Pamela Bazinet, Margie Gravel, Gerard Gravel, Linda Rainey, Lynn Whittingham, Judy Ries, JJ Jensen, John Burgess, Nora Maidman, Dee Stephanson, Shari Berridge, John Robertson, Angus and Chris Campbell, Sheila and Jerry Anderson, Fae Ericksen, Lyn and Hal Tonkin. |
David Foster
Dave Foster performs solo, with Ceol, or the Prairie Mountain Fiddlers. Song and tunes for Appalchian dulcimer or guitar range from the serious to the silly. Enjoy.
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David SettlesDave Settles, nineteen years ago the originator of the Water Valley Celtic/Folk festival. This year going solo bringing songs from the High Plains of Kansas which in reality is just songs from his youth. Voice and drum with maybe an odd story. If there is a story it will be odd.
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Derek Lofthouse
Northumbrian small pipes and hurdy-gurdy.
Playing a mix of newer tunes written in the euro folk dance tradition and older variation sets from the Northumbrian tradition.
Playing a mix of newer tunes written in the euro folk dance tradition and older variation sets from the Northumbrian tradition.
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Diminished FifthDiminished Fifth is all about home grown close harmony arrangements. This year Michael and Karen Pollock, Natalie Manzer and Steven Méthot will present a (mostly) A Cappella set of songs from across the Celtic Lands and beyond. All serious fun
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Eric Coyle
Scots Traditional ,Glasgow street songs and Burns poetry, visiting Seniors homes and enjoying doing it, many thanks, cheers.
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Father Married CousinFather Married Cousin consists of brothers Tim and Ian Babey picking mandolin and banjo respectively, with long time bass enthusiast Bill Innes bringing up the bottom end. Playing a variety of styles including celtic, bluegrass, folk and even a little rap, they'll throw in some original music, cook up a couple of smokin' instrumentals and probably attempt a couple of jokes while they are at it. Nothing is guaranteed.
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Fromage ChaudFROMAGE CHAUD, is a duo featuring Linda Kitchin and Darcy North. Linda is a dazzling string player, playing the mandolin, violin and guitar as well as sings. Darcy is a virtuoso accordionist and together they are an excellent choice for any event.
This duo has already had a number of interesting performances: playing at the Beakerhead Festival at the Centre for the Performing Arts, The National Music Centre, The Chinese Downtown Street Festival, The Korean Festival, various clubs and cafes, numerous private parties, corporate events, weddings and other venues where they can showcase their incredible repertoire of world beat, dance, jazz, and blues. For more information, please visit: www.FromageChaud.com |
Gan Ainm
Playing music from Ireland, England, Scotland and Central France, Gan Ainm are: Karen Pollock – flute, Katja Hoehn – flute, Kathy Pepers – harp, Doug Baker – guitar, Chris Gregg – fiddle, mandolin and northumbrian small pipes, Michael Pollock – fiddle, Derek Lofthouse – hurdy-gurdy, northumbrian small pipes, accordion and flute, Steven Methot – bodhran.
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George LyonTime, tide, and the accident of what the statisticians call birth have conspired to provide us with a tradition barely ours and hardly its own. Music, if it has a mind to, can sing about things like that, and maybe set one or two of them straight, yes? -- Richard Fariña, Celebrations for a Grey Day. 1965
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Gerry MadiganFolksinger/songwriter and banjo/guitarist, Gerry Madigan, is a seasoned professional with an impressive musical pedigree. Originally from Dublin, Ireland, where he was weaned on the Dublin Folk Music scene that spawned artists like The Dubliners, Paul Brady, Christy Moore, Andy Irvine and many more, he subsequently enjoyed 15 successful years on the road with his own band, The Cotton Mill Boys. Gerry has called Calgary home for the past 19 years.
After a hiatus of too many years, Gerry has now returned to his first love – folk music. An accomplished 5-string banjo player, his accompaniments to his Irish and contemporary folk songs are subtle and sensitive. Whether he’s singing a classic Irish song like ‘Raglan Road’, blasting out a bluegrass standard like ‘Old Home Place’, or telling the tale of Irish emigration in his poignant song, ‘Ellis Island’, all of his performances are passionate and memorable. Gerry recently released his brand new CD of all original material, entitled, ‘Wild Bird, Fly Free’ - check out the video of his track, Ellis Island from the CD. For more information, check out his website at www.mmimusic.ca or listen to his new CD on Bandcamp. Gerry@mmimusic.caGerry@mmimusic.ca |
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Get ReelHailing from the East Coast of De Winton and the North Shores of Calgary, our crew will explore a lively set of songs and tunes from the Maritimes, Folk and other Celtic traditions. We’ve regularly performed at venues in Calgary, and all the way from High River to Water Valley. Get Reel is Doug Wagner (vocals, bodhran, guitar and fiddle) and Greg Black (vocals, guitar, electric bass and octave mandolin). When the fog is just right you can hear almost hear the waves, smell the ocean, and see the shipwrecks.
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Grumpy Irish
Grumpy Irish is a small group of people that worked together in local theatre. After listening to the Haymakers at our now discontinued Ceili we thought hey those guys are having fun so who wants to go and sing for a bit??? Thus the birth of Grumpy Irish. We have preformed once before at last years water valley festival and now we are back. As Grumpy Irish we have a couple of new faces from last year and look forward to enjoying our time at the festival.
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Horizon RidgeHorizon Ridge is a group of fine multi-instrumentalists and seasoned vocalists known for their intuitive, tight harmonies and polished a cappella singing. Helen and Steve Goodchild, Peter May and Dianne Quinton take musical inspiration from their roots and subsequent journeys near and far.
Horizon Ridge brings an engaging stage presence to performances. With influences spanning traditional and contemporary folk, country, blues, rock and gospel, the band is versatile and adventurous. Their first CD, Enough is all you need, was released in July 2016. A mix of original and cover songs, it showcases the band's ability to move effortlessly between different musical styles and genres. The band members, who are based in Calgary, Alberta, have played festivals, music clubs and concerts in Canada, the US and UK. They have also taught a range of musical workshops in individual and group settings. They are looking forward to playing at Water Valley again this year! |
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InisheerInisheer is a “celtic and eastern” band playing traditional Celtic tunes and songs tempered with Down East songs and step dancing. Named for the smallest of the Aran islands off Co. Galway we are: Tara O’Sullivan (vocals, keyboard, and tap shoes), Doug Wagner (vocals and fiddle), and Greg Black (vocals and guitar).
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Jake IanJake Ian's performances and recordings over the past two decades have won him countless admirers in Western Canada’s folk and country scene. The Edmonton based artist pens intelligent, often comical tales that relate to the ordinary working man; songs of love, loneliness, hard work, failure and persistence. Able to pick an acoustic guitar and blow a harmonica with the best of them, Ian’s music is charming, captivating and real.
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Jeff StocktonJeff Stockton is a Celtic harpist, singer & storyteller. Since 1997, he has traveled near and far, nourishing the imagination of thousands of listeners. He has performed nationally and internationally. An award winning recording artist, he has released 4 recordings of his work with song and story:
'Sacred Ground' - Instrumental and vocal music 'Beneath the Boughs' - Gentle instrumental music for harp,cello and violin 'Wisdom of the Woods' - An award winning storytelling recording. "Between two Lights" - Instrumental and vocal music Jeff's website can be found at www.jeffstockton.ca |
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Joel WederJoel will play some of the Folk and Celtic pieces he's been enjoying recently, and maybe even one he wrote himself. You'll hear a mix of songs that may tug at your heart-strings or may be silly, sometimes both in the same piece! He has previously performed at Water Valley as part of the bluegrass group Whiskey Hill, as well as with his wife Sharon. Joel has been a member for many years of Menfolk Singing, and is one of the madcap Rocky Mountain Rappers dancers in his spare time!
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John LeederJohn Leeder has been making music for over 60 years, playing clawhammer-style 5-string banjo for over 50 years and octave mandolin for only 35 years. His repertoire includes traditional Canadian, British and American music, and originals in that vein. He is Honorary President of the Canadian Society for Traditional Music.
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Kathy PepersMore than a decade ago Kathy Pepers fell in love with the Celtic harp and Celtic music. Since then she's appeared at various concerts and clubs, both on her own or along with the Celtic band, The Jig's Up, and has had the great pleasure of playing with folk/Celtic artists Maggie Crystal and Barry Luft. Her greatest joy is sharing beautiful music and (hopefully!) bringing a little sense of peace.
www.celticharpandpiano.com |
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Ken the Whistle GuyKen Persson has been playing whistles since the 1970's, has taught whistle for continuing education programs and at music camps, and has played whistle in various Celtic (and even Scandinavian) bands in Alberta and BC. Besides the usual jigs and reels, expect a few hornpipes, polkas, marches, harp and pipe tunes, slow airs, and maybe even some Canadian fiddle tunes. |
Lilybelle
Lilybelle is sisters Kate (guitar, violin, voice), Jessica (violin, voice) and Victoria Pereversoff (piano, voice). Born and raised in Cremona, Alberta, the sisters have been singing and playing music together for all of their lives. All three have been trained as classical musicians on their instruments. Victoria studied piano at the University of Victoria. Both Kate and Jessica completed music degrees on the East Coast. Their love of folk music has grown and developed over the years. Kate and Jessica are past members of local group Seven Fiddlesworth, with Jessica later going on to join the Calgary Fiddlers. Their sets will consist of lively fiddle tunes and traditional folk songs.
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Lucid DiversityDave Bradt first became smitten by banjo and enjoyed years of playing 3-finger and clawhammer. A chance meeting with a Dobro student changed everything he became a Resophonic guitar enthusiast. Dave's latest love is the bass guitar.
Brian Howe started playing guitar when he was 14 after hearing the Kingston Trio and got hooked on folk music. In the late 1960’s he played in a group out of Winnipeg called Maple Sugar. They toured professionally for a time. Now Brian just plays for the love of it. Brad Tomlinson is a late in life player having picked up the guitar at age 46. Brad loves guitars and is known to have G.A.S. (Guitar Acquisition Syndrome) with a few mandolins and other instruments also creeping into the house. Carol Bloor is a flatpicker and fingerstyle guitarist who is mining the wealth of folk and bluegrass from the 1960s forward. Together, they are Lucid Diversity. They love to play all kinds of acoustic music including: country, celtic, bluegrass, traditional, blues, rock, pop and folk. |
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May BeesA Family Group that sings and plays together. Beverly, Brandon, Evan, Heidi and Maybe Timothy, Heather and Megan. Guitar, fiddle, autoharp, shepherd's harp, ukulele, and boom whackers and Maybe penny whistle.
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May Contain Alcohol
A seasoned and experienced group of musicians from Calgary, playing a wide variety of musical genres. Today, featuring great Celtic and popular western tunes you can all sing and clap along to. Don't miss this act!! Entertainment guaranteed to please!!
Band Members:
Pat O'Hare (lead vocals/guitar)
Art Price (cajon)
Don Olness (mandolin)
Gus Johnson (electric bass)
Band Members:
Pat O'Hare (lead vocals/guitar)
Art Price (cajon)
Don Olness (mandolin)
Gus Johnson (electric bass)
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Murray FitchMurray Fitch is a Calgary-born and raised singer-songwriter with a penchant for Folk music…sometimes soft and melodic, sometimes rocking, and often quirky (come hear his new song, “Ode to Porridge”, written specifically for Water Valley). He is the 2017 winner of the Ship and Anchor songwriting contest (formerly the Calgary Folk Musical Festival contest) in the Upstart category and is a finalist again in 2018. Murray was also a 2018 finalist in the Foothills Folks Club songwriting contest. He hosts a monthly song circle at the Gravity Espresso and Wine Bar in Calgary. As a solo act, Murray plays guitar, banjo, and ukulele. Be prepared to sing along to (mostly) original music.
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My Son TedMy Son Ted? Ted Zeppelin? My Three Sons? What’s going on?
My Son Ted melds calypso with ceilidh and roots with rock. Led by guitarist Brian Volke, the band continues to feature Christie Simmons, Colin Peters, Shawn Kingston, RJ McConnell and Brad Uphill. Check out My Son Ted’s new album, Carmel’s Parlour. |
Noises from the Basement
Noises From the Basement are Gerard Curley, Kevin Poier, and Stuart Miller. They made a great deal of noise in community theatre for several years before deciding to stand together with guitars in hand, some eight years ago. They perform a mixture of original and cover songs, straining for 3-part harmonies and hopefully some tasty licks. Come and sing along, and maybe together we can make some beautiful noise.
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Nora MaidmanNora plays a number of instruments including mandolin, octave mandolin and flute as well as singing. She will be playing and singing a variety of Celtic songs as well as one or two original compositions.
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Norm WalkerNorm Walker an eclectic acoustic "story-singer" and song and tune writer who lives in Regina, Saskatchewan. Original and non-original song themes, include (but are not limited to) traditional folk tales, urban legends, electrical theory, the Saskatchewan prairie, gardening, seasons, apostrophe abuse, old literature, politics, community and family. Writing and playing mandolin tunes is a favorite past-time. He also sings many old-songs from the days of the 78s and before. Guitar, mandolin, strum-stick or just a capella voice are the instruments of choice. His main aim is to make audiences laugh, feel and think (not necessarily in that order). Website: www.normwalker.com
Two CDs released: "T" Time - Time Tested Tales, Tall and True - 2002 Dear Friends and Gentle Hearts - 2011 |
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On Irish StreetEmily Kirwan, Derick Perry, Eileen Perry-Milligan
Together they have played at Water Valley, Rock Mountain Folk Club, Celtic Folk, formal functions at the Irish Centre and in a weekly session at The Oaktree pub in Calgary. Emilie is from Ballynacally, a village outside Ennis in Co. Clare. She attended the University of Limerick and has a Masters in Traditional Irish music performance. Martin Hayes and Gerry O’Connor were just two of her teachers in the Masters programme. Derick is a singer/ guitarist from Belfast Co. Antrim. He has played with various bands and also performed solo at Celtic Folk, Rocky Mountain Folk Club and Water Valley. Eileen is also from Belfast. Co. Antrim and has played Bodhran with groups who have performed at Celtic Folk and Water Valley and at the Rocky Mountain Folk club as a duo with Derick; her bodhran was built by Dave Settles. |
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Pam and the BoysPam and the Boys are a folk-based group with influences from the Celtic, East Coast, Bluegrass, and Blues genres. PATB like to focus on the melodic elements of the songs they perform and particularly like to explore vocal harmony variations.
Pam and the Boys are (L-R): Randy LeDrew, Pam Bazinet, Ralph McNeil, Paul Bazinet, & John Robertson |
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Ralph McNeilRalph McNeil
Ralph describes himself as a folk vocalist with Celtic roots. Ralph loves a good melody combined with a great story. His comfort music foods are traditional Celtic songs, more recent East-Coast derivations on the traditional theme, and similarliy influenced singer-songwriters. Ralph has released two CD’s: ⦁Straight From the Basement with The Last Beer in 2009 ⦁Roots in 2012 |
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Rosaleen and David GregoryRosaleen and Dave love sharing the folk music and traditional balladry of the British Isles, to which they have added songs and stories from Canada and the USA. Rosaleen is passionate about narrative ballads – story-songs, performed sometimes with guitar accompaniment, sometimes a cappella. Dave plays clarinet, and will be accompanying Rosaleen in our concert. This year we’ll be performing a mix of ballads and shorter lyrics, with an emphasis on Celtic music: two songs from Ireland , two from Scotland, and one Canadian song about Louis Riel and the battle of Batoche.
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Rosaleen and the BalladeersRosaleen, Dave and John enjoy sharing the traditional balladry of the British Isles. Rosaleen specializes in singing the ‘big ballads’ – the story-songs, usually with accompaniment, occasionally a cappella. Dave plays clarinet, John plays octave mandolin and banjo. This year Rosaleen will sing four ballads from Francis Child’s collection The English and Scottish Popular Ballads: Thomas the Rhymer, Dowie Dens of Yarrow, Fair Annie and Diverus and Lazarus. These can also be found on her CDs, Sheath and Knife and Serpent’s Knee.
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Sing Out
We’re gathering in the Church Events Centre to sing the festival to a close. Come prepared to sing!
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Six by SixNamed for the duo's two guitars, Six by Six plays acoustic folk and bluegrass music from the 1960s forward songs you loved and a few you haven't met yet. Their fingerstyle, flatpicking and songwriting weave together like a basket, filled with stories for the heart. (Carol Bloor, Brian Howe)
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Skullduggery
Skullduggery (formerly Jiggery Pokery) are Steve McFarlane (guitar & lead vocals), Sandy Aberdeen (bass, vocals, whistle, harmonica), Jason Barry(accordion) and Mark Brooker (Cajon).
We will serve you up a dish of rollickin' tunes from Ireland, Newfoundland and a bit more. Come have a sing and dance with us!!!
We will serve you up a dish of rollickin' tunes from Ireland, Newfoundland and a bit more. Come have a sing and dance with us!!!
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SoulsticeA trio of singer/songwriters (originally based in Calgary, but now enjoying the country life in Oyen, Esther and Sundre respectively!) who enjoy performing traditional Celtic songs as well as their own original music. The group is Cathy Buchanan (vocals), Sheila Andersen (vocals and percussion) and Daniel Ambrose Singleton aka “Danny boy” (guitar and vocals). Soulstice has been performing in Water Valley since 2008. Their debut CD Heart Strings was released at the Water Valley Celtic Festival in 2009; followed by Journeys (2010) and Hills of Home (2013).
And here is the writeup for Soulstice and the Prairie Highlander: In this set of story and song, cowboy poet Del Pratt (whom Cathy promptly christened The Prairie Highlander after hearing some of his Highlander works) will recite his original Highlander trilogy, and Soulstice (Dan Singleton, Cathy Buchanan and Sheila Andersen) will add their original and traditional songs; to honour these brave Scots. See you next month!! Sheila Andersen (for Soulstice) |
Sypher's Cove Band
Sypher's Cove is a Celtic/Folk group that plays traditional celtic along with modern music in a celtic style. The group performed at Watervalley last year and really enjoyed the experience. They have played at numerous venues in central Alberta since then. This group is from Rocky Mountain House and has been performing for two years. The members include Mickey Dietz; John Gillis; Yvonne Hansen; Alandra Gillis and Gabriel Gillis.
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The 2A connection bandThe 2A Connection Band was formed on 25 Sep 2017. This community band brings together folks from Irricana, Airdrie, Crossfield, Carstairs, Didsbury, Olds, Bowden, Sundre and Innisfail. This band is an excited group of musicians range from 15-80 years of age, who just love to get together on a Monday Night at 6:30 pm at the Didsbury High School Music Room and play music. Their Directors Andrea Boulet and Teena Trick-Wilks have worked hard together to make the dream of a Community Band come back to life in the area! This summer the program will expand to include a Jazz Band Program. Starting on Mondays on 9 July, there will be a 6:30-8:15 pm group of musicians assembling called the 2A Link and the Jazz band at 8:30-9:30 pm. If you want to dig out your band instrument again feel free to join the fun! Contact is Andrea at (403) 966-1790 or Teena (403) 390-2002 - just text or call for more information!
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The Bow Valley FiddlersSince the formation of The Bow Valley Fiddlers in 1991, this very talented group of amateur musicians, ranging from 7 to 18 years of age, has entertained thousands of people in and around the Calgary area.
The Bow Valley Fiddlers are a division of The Calgary Fiddlers Association, a non-profit organization whose mandate is the promotion and preservation of all forms of fiddling, with particular emphasis on Canadian styles. The association puts particular focus on achieving this goal by providing a performance format for young music students interested in the art of folk fiddling. For more information please visit our website: www.calgaryfiddlers.com |
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The HaymakersThe Haymakers are a Celtic group that performs East Coast, Prairie and Traditional Celtic music with vocal harmonies. This group has been performing for about 12 years throughout Alberta and in Saskatchewan and hosts a Ceilidh at Rocky Mountain House each spring the week before St. Pattie's Day.
members of the group: Louise Bruns, Mickey Dietz, Bobbie-Jo Douglas, Kyla Eiffert, Yvonne Hanson, Alita Hermary, John Gillis, Neil Winchell |
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The Irish Cultural Society Choir (ICS)In November 1994 clear, strong voices rang out as the Irish Cultural Society of Calgary Choir formed from a core group of Irish immigrants and their Canadian friends. Twenty-four years later this welcoming group has over forty singers regularly regaling, and they continue to entertain people from around the world in their uniquely Irish-Canadian manner.
From sold out concerts to regular performances on the festival circuit, including an annual star turn at the Water Valley Celtic Festival, this community stalwart for St. Patrick’s Day, shows their spirit by regularly welcoming people to the Calgary airport, singing in retirement homes, halls, clubs and even joining other choirs around town in a bid to squeeze every last drop of fun from their singing. Joe Massey and Maureen Hutchens share duties conducting the choir and arranging the set programs while Tara Sullivan (piano) and Lane Henry (violin) Tony Hogan (bodhran) Greg Black (guitar) Joe Massey (whistle) Doug Wagner (fiddle) provide accompaniment to this booming, fun-loving, joyful choir. The Irish Cultural Society of Calgary Choir are looking their best as they enter their 25th year. |
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The Noble LenniesA Calgary based vocal group that consists of Lynn Moorman, Jen Hooper, and Nobuo Kawaguchi. They come from various musical backgrounds but their shared love of singing has them collaborating on an eclectic range of music genres. Be an exact cover or a creative remake of the original, The Noble Lennies will entertain you with intricate three-part harmonies of some of the best songs from folk, celtic, country, blues, and pop.
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The projectThe Project is an acoustic blues and roots music duo, featuring Wayne Corner & George Campbell We play old string music that has great stories and deep grooves; we like to involve the audience in singing; we sing strongly ourselves; and we play well together.
Wayne plays a variety of guitars, while George plays rhythm guitar and harmonica. We both sing and contribute good songs to the group. Wayne is a fine songwriter and George uncovers obscure and interesting songs from long ago. Most of the year The Project is a trio but in the summer months our remarkable fiddle player, Don Milne, resides in B.C. and is unable to join us. |
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The Rocky Mountain RappersRapper sword dancing emerged from the pit villages of Tyneside in North East England, where miners first performed the tradition.
The dance requires five performers who co-ordinate themselves whilst using "rapper swords" made from flexible steel. Accompanied by traditional folk music, and a “Tommy” who announces the dance and engages the audience. The dancers wear specially-designed shoes that allow for percussive foot movements. Mental alertness, in addition to physical agility, is required in order for dance participants to use the swords effectively without causing harm to themselves or the other performers. The Rocky Mountain Rappers are: Chris Gregg, Rob Skeet, Michael Pollock, Stephen Methot, Joel Weder, and Fred Burns. We are privileged this year to have Al Thomson and Bob Hodgson, both from North East England to join us with some traditional songs from the area. |
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The WayfarersThe Wayfarers are a group of friends from Calgary who began playing together at house parties a couple years ago and quickly evolved into a small celtic band. They use an eclectic array of instruments, and play a collection of wayfaring folk and celtic songs.
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The Welcome'The Welcome' (An Failte in gaelic) are a song based Duo/Trio covering an eclectic mix of songs and stories.
Members are: Kevin Friel: (Vocals and Guitar) A ‘seasoned’ player from Scotland lived and played in Ireland for years then landed in Canada in 2014. Covers a wide array of folk music from Scots/Irish to Americana. Dan Mills: (Fiddle, Flute, Whistle and backing vocals) An accomplished musician from Newfoundland. Was the mainstay with ‘The Freels’ back east. Now playing with a Friel with the proper spelling. We are occasionally joined by different guest artists. One known to Water Valley would be the County Kildare export known as Dave Morrisey. Guitarist and Banjo player who has been settled in Alberta’s Celtic music scene for some time. |
Tin Whistle Workshop
Co-hosted by Ken Persson (aka Ken the Whistle Guy) and Christie Simmons, who plays whistle, among other things, in My Son Ted.
Here's your chance to get started playing Celtic music on nature's most nearly perfect instrument, or if you already play, to maybe pick up a few more tricks! Bring a D whistle if you have one, but if not, come anyway and there will be a few loaners available. (We like the Generation brand, available from Long & McQuade for about $11; the Megs are also OK.)
Here's your chance to get started playing Celtic music on nature's most nearly perfect instrument, or if you already play, to maybe pick up a few more tricks! Bring a D whistle if you have one, but if not, come anyway and there will be a few loaners available. (We like the Generation brand, available from Long & McQuade for about $11; the Megs are also OK.)
Togaibh I Calgaraidh
St. Andrew-Caledonian Society.
Scottish Gaelic Choir. The repertoire is of Gaelic and English, showcasing many different styles and tempos of music. We also sing folk songs, some traditional airs, some modern arrangements. We have on-going Gaelic lessons so no previous experience is required. We always welcome new members.
Scottish Gaelic Choir. The repertoire is of Gaelic and English, showcasing many different styles and tempos of music. We also sing folk songs, some traditional airs, some modern arrangements. We have on-going Gaelic lessons so no previous experience is required. We always welcome new members.
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Wee JammedWee Jammed and then we rehearsed. Focusing on originals by Alex Koddo and Barry Hertz (mandolin, guitar and banjo), with Karen Pollock (flute and cello), we draw from a variety of genres. Barry barryhertz.com (with 2 CD's to his credit) and Alex have had many years of performing, songwriting, arranging and improvising. Karen is learning to improvise (with help from the guys) and plays in folk, celtic, Klezmer and classical groups.
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Will QuanWill Quan is a Canadian singer songwriter. His influences stem from artists like Neil Young, Blue Rodeo and Ron Sexsmith. Will's first full length studio album Perennials (2017) is a collection of songs of love, loss, hope and other life stories told only using an acoustic guitar, harmonica and a warm melodic mellow vocal. Will's songwriting is channeled straight from the heart. It reminds an audience that every line of a lyric has a place and reason for being and invites a listener to join in for a tale.
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