New Hampshire Traditional Arts & Folklife Listing

Ryan Thomson New England, Celtic & Folk Musics: Fiddle, Banjo & more Description: Ryan Thomson is a multi-instrumentalist performer who plays the fiddle, accordion, banjo, Celtic flute, piano, and pennywhistle. His family’s musical heritage stretches back to the pioneer days. Ryan performs often with Brennish Thomson, his fiddling son, who is carrying forward his family’s music and dance traditions. In performances, workshops, and classes, Ryan emphasizes having fun with music. He has been honored with the Northeast Regional championship of the National Fiddle Contest, a Boston Music Award nomination as an accordionist, and has received many banjo playing awards. He produces music education videos and has 30 years of music teaching experience both privately and at educational institutions including the University of New Hampshire extension services, North Shore Community College, Phillips Exeter Academy, and The Festival of American Fiddle Tunes in Washington. His performance venues include schools, museums, music festivals, and traditional New England country dances. His numerous books on music have received glowing reviews from the American Library Association, Ex Libris, New Hampshire Writer’s and Publisher’s Project, Fiddler Magazine, Sing Out!, and other national publications. Ryan can supply a PA system for performances. Publicity information is available on request and sound samples of his playing can be heard on his website. Preferred activities and age groups: K-12 school residencies; solo and band performances, adult and family concerts, dances in several traditional styles including New England Contra dancing, barn dances, Cajun dances, and clogging. Educational workshops include: history, lore, and playing of traditional instruments; music making for the disabled; improvisation; and master classes. Private lessons and consultations. Sample video and audio recordings are available. Availability: Statewide year round Fees: Fees start at $250 and are determined by specific circumstances including date, location, and need for additional accompanying musicians. Please call to discuss specifics. Contact Information: Captain Fiddle Music 4 Elm Court Newmarket, NH 03857 Phone: 603/659-2658 Alt. Phone: 603/659-2658 email: cfiddle@tiac.net website: www.captainfiddle.com Notes: Ryan is on the New Hampshire Artist Roster and the Traditional Arts & Folklife Listing.