Artist description William and Alene bring a refreshing new sound to the Celtic/New Age genre. Their performance on steel strung and classical guitar consists of mostly original compositions; accompanied by electric viola. This married couples live performances throughout the Northwest resulted in a consumers demand for a recording of this ambient guitar work hence,'Dowry of Guitars'

Music Style Celtic/New Age guitar

Musical Influences Loreena Mckennitt, Altan, Phil Keaggy

Similar Artists Magical Strings, Alex DeGrassi, William Coulter

Artist History William and Alene Bertman are both Seattle natives yet in touch with their Irish heritage. “ Dowry of Guitars “, demonstrates this married couple’s proficiency at guitar playing and song writing ; all the while exuding Celtic ambiance. This project features William on steel strung and Alene on classical guitar. Produced by Alene Bertman , she captures an unearthly guitar work and a haunting accompaniment by Anna Schaad on electric viola. This debut CD makes for an instrumental album that will take you far and away.William Bertman has earned respect as a session player in the greater Seattle area and has performed live extensively. His background as a blues player has contributed to his soulful acoustic guitar style portrayed on “ Dowry of Guitars . “ William has been invited to the likes of Farm Aid ( performing for Willie Nelson and Marty Stuart ) and the Tennessee Performing Arts Center in Nashville. He has attended weeks of intense workshops with acclaimed artists such as Ray Stevens and other top Nashville session players. Mostly though, it’s William’s non pretentious , wacky personality that shines in his playing that charms audiences. William takes pride in his vintage guitar collection and is a connoisseur of great tone.Alene ( Damski ) Bertman is the granddaughter of the renowned late Henri Damski who was one of the first program directors for KJR and KOMO Radio in Seattle, and had the only Orchestra in the city at the time. Alene has also made a career for herself in the Seattle music scene. She started her study of classical guitar under Steve Novechek at the Cornish School of Performing Arts. She worked as a guitar instructor and later went on to writing her own material. This foundation lead to the recording and production work Alene would pursue. Touring the United States, Alene demonstrated her sense of commitment to a product. Dowry of Guitars “, is a culmination of what Alene Bertman is about . Her love for the Celtic culture ( Alene did live in Ireland for a while during her teen years ) and passion for organic music is evident.William and Alene have bridged their unique guitar playing styles and have brought their professional attitudes and years of experience to promoting this project. They are presently writing and arranging new material and continuing to play live performances. William and Alene bring delight to their listeners .

Group Members William Bertman-Acoustic guitar, Alene Bertman-Classical guitar/harp, Anna Schaad-Electric viola

Instruments Acoustic guitar, classical guitar, irish harp, electric viola, hammered dulcimer, tablas and bodhran.

Albums Dowry of Guitars

Press Reviews "Such diverse influences merge here in music characterized by nimble chord progressions, keen rhythmic values and a touch of humorous whimsy." "Hints of gypsy in the soul"....New Age Voice Magazine. "The music shows a classical influence and the playing is lyrical and precise." "A lovely and well performed recording".....Dirty Linen Magazine. "Each song shows special attention to the choice of instruments." "Dowry of Guitars maintains a profound repose within its rigorous artistry".....Sounds of Seattle Online Magazine. "Celtic and classical guitar superiority. Their proficiency in guitar playing and songwriting make them a Tacoma favorite"....Borders Books and Records.

Location Seattle, Washington - USA

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