Artist description Rachael McShane, from South Yorkshire UK, is one of a new generation of singer/songwriters to emerge on the folk scene, breathing new life into traditional songs and contemporary ballads as well as producing her own thoughtfully crafted material.

Music Style Contemporary English Folk Music

Musical Influences Kate Rusby, Eric Bogel, Nic Jones, Vanessa Rudden

Similar Artists Kate Rusby, Vanessa Rudden

Artist History Folk music has always played an important part in Rachael's life. From an early age she has attended folk clubs, dances and festivals, nurturing her enthusiasm for the music and tradition. Rachael began Irish step dancing at the age of three, later performing with Irish dance teams 'Wild Thyme' and 'Exclusively Irish' at festivals and events throughout the country. At the age of five, Rachael began singing and playing, making her debut festival appearance at Holmfirth Folk Festival aged seven, already displaying her song writing talents with such classics as 'My Cat’s Name is Spider', 'Grandpa Tortoise He's So Slow' and 'Puppies Cannot Fly'!! Rachael was influenced and encouraged by Robin Williamson of 'The Incredible String Band', as well as many other artists on the folk scene. She has learnt to play guitar, fiddle, melodeon and harp, and has learnt much from the knowledge of various artists at festival workshops and Folkworks. In recent years, Rachael has continued to work as a solo artist, while playing with concert folk bands and ceilidh bands. Rachael has performed at folk festivals throughout the UK and at a variety of concert venues, supporting bands such as 'Patrick Street' and 'Battlefield Band'. Rachael's performance includes songs accompanied on her guitar as well as fiddle music. Unusually, Rachael is also an accomplished 'cellist, recently winning the Performing Arts Development Service Young Musician of the Year.

Group Members Rachael McShane - Vocals, Guitar & Fiddle / Chris McShane - Guitar / Keith J Ramskill - Percussion / Becci Taylor - Whistle / Gareth Taylor - Piano & Backing Vocals / Jo Worboys-Hodgson - String Bass

Instruments Vocals, Guitar, Fiddle, Percussion, Whistle, Piano, String Bass

Albums 'Look Beyond' - 2001

Location Barnsley, South Yorkshire - United Kingdom

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