Beòlach (a Gaelic word meaning lively youth) is one of Cape Breton's most exciting new bands. The group performs an energetic mix of Cape Breton, Scottish and Irish tunes featuring piano, pipes, whistles, guitar, and two fiddles.
Beòlach began at an impromptu session at the Celtic Colors Festival in 1999, and after a strong initial response, went on to play festivals in North America and Europe such as Celtic Connnections (3 years) in Glasgow, Scotalnd, Tonder Festival in Denmark, the Vancouver and Edmonton Folk Festivals, the Potomac Festival in Virginia and of course Celtic Colors International festival (4 years). The group recorded their self titled album in the summer of 2001 and their second "Variations" in 2004 at Lakewind Sound Studio in Point Aconi, Cape Breton. The albums feature original compositions as well as unique dynamic arrangements of traditional tunes. There are five solo albums recorded by some of the band members as well.
Beòlach has thrilled audiences with spirited performances, witty presentation and versatile stepdancing. They remove Cape Breton tunes from their usual fiddle/piano context and present them with the renewed energy of a young five-piece band. While they perform within a contemporary style, Beolach maintains a great respect for - and understanding for the traditional Cape Breton music.
The band members individually, have been seen in the music world for years now performing with such bands as Mary Jane Lamond, Natalie MacMaster, Ashley MacIsaac, Howie MacDonald's Celtic Brew, The Cape Breton Summertime Revue and Cuillin. Beolach has been nominated for East Coast Music Awards in the categories Roots/Traditional group in 2003, 2005 and Instrumental artist in 2005.
Beòlach is Patrick Gillis (guitar), Mairi Rankin (fiddle, stepdance), Mac Morin (piano, stepdance), Ryan J. MacNeil (pipes, whistles) and Wendy MacIsaac (fiddle, stepdance)
www.beolach.com