Andrew Gracey

Vocals, Whistles, Flute, Percussion

Influences: Tom Dorley, Joanie Madden, Neil Anderson, Mike McHale, Rory Campbell,  Davey Spillane, Donal Lunny, Finbar Furey, Christy Moore, Jethro Tull, The Chieftains, Dave Brubeck, Nirvana, Planxty, Neil Young, Ben Harper, Mom and Dad, Spirit of the West, Wilco, Nomos, Old Blind Dogs, Alice in Chains, The Bothy Band, The Tragically Hip

Andrew grew up in the heart of dairy country in Lewis County, New York and spent his early life on his father’s land where the Black River meets the Otter Creek. Born into a musical family there was always music in the kitchen and instruments around the house. Andrew’s mother, herself an accomplished musician, studied music at Syracuse University prior to completing her degree in education.

Andrew’s father grew up the son of a railway man turned butcher, in a small town on the Erie Canal. Growing up, Andrew’s father always had some song or story at the ready, passing down the rich oral tradition of the itinerants, travelers and workmen of the canals and railroads.

Andrew’s direct and oft minimalist approach to music and life is a reflection of these familial and environmental influences. He has been forunate enough to have studied with All Ireland Champion and Connaught Flute Champion Mike McHale, Mary Coogan of Cherish the Ladies, and the brilliant All Ireland Champion fiddler Liz Carrol.