Cantrip

The name is an Old Scots word meaning a charm, magic spell or piece of mischief and it aptly describes the unexpected twists and turns in their musical arrangements, likewise the compelling potency of their musicianship. Originally formed as a quartet, Cantrip sprung from a local session in Edinburgh fifteen years ago. Their driving music immediately caught the attention of the masses, and they were quickly signed to the Foot Stompin' label. With their first album "Silver" (2001) in hand, Cantrip made its way across the water to the United States, where they were received with roars and shouts (of enjoyment). After years of significant touring, the band parted ways with Foot Stompin' and began producing albums on their own. Two albums later ("Boneshaker" in 2005 and "Piping the Fish" in 2008), Cantrip had cemented itself as a perennial figure. After a period of hiatus in which children were born and continents were left for new ones, Cantrip redefined its sound. Trimming itself to a trio, the band tightened its arrangements while expanding its influence. New inspirations began creeping into the sound, complementing the traditional foundation of the band. The enhanced sound has been catching the ear of listeners and concert goers all over again. The band's much anticipated fourth release "The Crossing" is in production, and it looks to be as exciting and full of energy as ever. Dan Houghton was born in Ghana, but was transported to Scotland shortly thereafter, where he was surrounded by the indigenous music. He began his career with the whistle at age seven and started playing bagpipes in the early nineties, proceeding to win the Scottish Lowland and Border Pipers' Society Open Borderpipes and New Composition events (multiple times), as well as the Maitre de Cornemuse at St. Chartier. Over the years he increased his versatility as a multi-instrumentalist, becoming an accomplished player on the flute, bouzouki and DADGAD guitar. In 2010, with the help of many friends (including Jon Bews), Dan released his first solo recording entitled "The Long March Home". He is an instructor at the Vermont Institute of Celtic Arts, and in addition to Cantrip can be heard as a member of Parcel of Rogues, Prydien and Salsa Celtica. Outside of music Dan holds a BSc Hons I degree in Applied Mathematics and Geophysics from the University of Otago and an MLitt degree in Gaelic Literature and Language from the University of Edinburgh. A veteran of the fiddle, having started at age four, Jon Bews came to Scots music from a classical education by way of Goth rock. But it didn't take long for him to entrench himself in the world and carve a name for himself as a fiddler. A prizewinning graduate of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in 1994, he has performed and recorded with such diverse artists as Malinky, James Yorkston, Mikel Urdangarin, Ranarim, Deaf Mutes and Samling. In addition to Cantrip, he currently plays with renowned Edinburgh ceilidh band Callanish and critically acclaimed indie rock quintet The Last Battle. Jon is also widely recognised as a composer and arranger. His string arrangements have been sought out by Ewan MacPherson and Fribo and his tunes have won high acclaim across the board. Jon moved to the Scottish Borders in 2003 where he spent two years as Traditional and World Music Development Worker for Scottish Borders Council. He stayed there because the view is nice and only moved back to Edinburgh because the shops are open later. As a US native, Eric McDonald found his way to traditional music through the rich local music scene in Boston. He studied at Berklee College of Music under world renowned musicians such as guitarist/mandolinist John McGann and cellist Eugene Friesen. He is established as one of the USA's premier accompanists in many styles. Known for his tasteful approach and quick ear, he can be heard on recordings by many artists such as Cape Breton and Scottish fiddlers Katie McNally and Brendan Carey Block. His string pieces have been performed by orchestras in the US and Canada, and his work as a music director for Boston theatre company Actor's Shakespeare Project has been praised by major critics from publications such as the Boston Globe and the Wall Street Journal. In addition to Cantrip he performs with Scottish lowland piper Will Woodson, master fiddler Ryan McKasson and the contemporary string trio the Knockbox Stringband. As an instructor, Eric is on staff at the Club Passim School of Music and teaches during the summer at Maine Fiddle Camp, a mecca of traditional music in Northern New England. All three members of Cantrip are well reputed professionals in their own right, but when they come together the sum of the parts is a truly unique experience. With a storied and rich history, Cantrip has proven that it will be a presence for many years to come.

Randolph, VT