** RESCHEDULED CONCERT **
We are so pleased the performers found a spot in their calendar to substitute for the show that was canceled in February due to snow!
We?re in for a treat when multiinstrumentalist, singer and songwriter Alex Caton is joined by musical partner, singer and guitarist Pat Egan. You might have seen Alex when Ginny Hawker and Tracy Schwarz performed for us last year ? she was their opening act. Ginny and Tracy are known for mentoring young performers, so we knew they?d bring a gem.
Born in England, Alex Caton was a longtime student of piano and violin when her family settled in the US. Discovering Appalachian old-time and Irish fiddle music about twenty years ago changed her life. She moved to Virginia to absorb the music, studying fiddle, banjo, guitar and voice with some of the masters. She hones her talents at countless jam sessions, has been a member of several bands and appears in shows ranging from house concerts to major festivals. But teaching is her passion ? in schools, at festivals and fiddle camps (some of which she founded), and in the home studio she built just for that purpose. She understands the need for learning traditions from the elders, practicing them, and passing them on to younger generations. She is also adding to those traditions by writing songs and tunes.
You might have seen Irish-born Pat Egan performing in bands, playing for folk dances or leading traditional sessions. He came to the Midwest from Tipperary at the invitation of noted accordionist Paddy O?Brien to form the band Chulrua. While in the Midwest, he found himself attracted to America?s old-time music. He and Alex met in the late ?90s, when both were living in Asheville, NC. They?ve been friends ever since, and musical partners much of that time as well. These days you?re likely to see this very busy performer working with hammered dulcimer player Maggie Sansone, with flutist Laura Byrne, or as part of various bands: Old Pitch, Jug of Punch, the Hedge Band or The Sound of Sleat (who recently released a CD). Pat is known for his warm, resonant singing voice and his solid rhythm guitar. He, too, is a teacher, emphasizing rhythm and guitar accompaniment.
What to expect? Appalachian (rooted, of course, in the Scots-Irish tradition), Irish songs and tunes in those traditions. To borrow from a Myron Bretholz review: ?This duo weaves a beautiful and intricate tapestry of sounds, drawing from the rich traditions of both Irish and old-time music. Their spellbinding instrumental selections and poignant songs reflect not only a depth of knowledge, but also a true passion for the material.? It promises to be a fun evening for sure.
To sample the breadth of their work, check their websites:
alexcaton.com
and pateganmusic.blogspot.com
then join us on Saturday, May 2, 8 pm; general admission: $15; free to FSGW members. At Washington Ethical Society Auditorium, 7750 16th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20012. Please park on 16th Street, not on Kalmia west of 16th.
