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Gillian Head

Cape Breton

Gillian Head is a fiddler with a sound that exemplifies the spirit and drive of traditional Cape Breton music. After taking an early interest in Cape Breton step dance, Gillian soon wanted to play the music she practised to and began fiddle lessons with Stephanie Wills, and then the late Jerry Holland. Jerry’s teaching and playing had an impact on her development as a fiddler. While early teachers instilled a love of tradition, her style is individual and reflective of her varied musical taste. Gillian’s debut album, Spirit (2014), received a Music Nova Scotia award nomination for Traditional/Roots Recording of the Year. Gillian is joined by Jason Roach and Mary Beth Carty, with guest appearances by Colin Grant and Donnie Calabrese on her most recent release, Tidal (2018). The album, which includes traditional Cape Breton tunes as well as some of Gillian’s own compositions, was also nominated for Music Nova Scotia and East Coast Music Association awards. When not performing, Gillian teaches fiddling at École de musique Raveston in Chéticamp, Cape Breton.

Festival Performances

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