The Sarah Burnell Band (SBB) blends the diverse and extensive musical backgrounds of Sarah Burnell (fiddle and vocals), Graham Lindsey (percussion, mandolin, flute and vocals), and Peter McKinnon (guitar and vocals) to create a unique folk-music experience. With a fresh, rootsy sound deeply rooted in Celtic traditions, SBB draws inspiration from the folk music of Canada, the United States and Europe. The band’s 2006 debut “Sarah’ndipity” earned Sarah Burnell the Canadian Folk Music Association’s Young Performer of the year award and touched off a busy touring schedule. Two years later, SBB broadened its sound on “Return Ticket,” incorporating echoes of a wide range of styles into the mix.
The band’s musical palette continues to evolve as it finalizes material for its third album and reflects a deep respect for tradition and a healthy appetite for exploration. SBB concerts mesmerize audiences with an invigorating mix of energetic jigs and reels, tender waltzes that bring a tear to the eye and captivating ballads. Oh, and they have quite a bit fun, too.
Sarah Burnell grew up in a household that sang, danced and celebrated good music and the honest study that it demands. Violin in hand since age four, a combined B.Mus. and B.Ed. has now landed her contracts teaching music primary schools in Montreal. Add in private lessons and time singing in and leading choirs, and you get a sense of this woman’s singular passion.
Graham Lindsey’s music journey began – and continues – in bands: from marching fife, percussion and brass to concert music in school, community concert bands, brass bands, and in Celtic ensembles and at local sessions, just as a start. He is adept at countless musical instruments, including concert percussion and drum kit, bodhran, fife, flute and whistles, mandolin, and euphonium.
Peter McKinnon fell in love with acoustic guitar fingerpicking more than 30 years ago. Fortunately, his first love hasn’t minded that he also indulges in an eclectic range of styles, genres and settings, including blues, jazz, electric rock and Celtic.