Meet the band
Band members
Our standard line up is a three piece band consisting of fiddle, keyboard and full drum kit. On request and subject to availability, a 2nd fiddle can be added for an additional fee. Having experienced most venues across the north-east, we always tailor our PA system and instrument line up to suit the setting.
Joe Hibbs
Fiddle | Caller | DJ
In June 2016, Joe graduated from the University of Aberdeen with an upper second class BMus (Hons) degree where he specialised in performance, composition and researching the role of fiddle music in Scotland's history. In addition to an extensive knowledge of classical repertoire for violin, he has a diverse knowledge of the historical and technical styles of Scottish fiddle music. Joe is a violin and viola teacher for Aberdeenshire Council and teaches in Ellon and Portlethen.
As well as playing fiddle, Joe can also call the ceilidh dances and also does the bands' books, so it'll be him who is on the end of the emails!
Gareth Black
Keyboard | Caller | DJ
In the summer of 2017, Gareth graduated from the University of Aberdeen with a Bachelor of Music Degree with Education. He began playing piano at the age of 10 and it was always his ambition to be a secondary school music teacher. Currently teaching music in an Angus secondary school, he also teaches piano privately and enjoys performing in the band. Although he is classically trained, his vast knowledge of music allows the band to offer a modern twist to the traditional tunes. The piano is his first study instrument, but he can also play the clarinet and recently took to the accordion.
Gareth plays a Nord Stage 3 Keyboard and can call any of the ceilidh dances. He also selects suitable music during the breaks and optional DJ set, incorporating modern songs as well as the classic party tunes.
Matt Clark
Drum kit | Caller | DJ
Matt plays the drums in the band and holds a Bachelors of Music with First Class Honours from the University of Aberdeen as well as a Masters of Music (with Commendation) focussing on Composition. Having completed his PGDE in Secondary Music, Matt now works as a secondary school Music and Music Technology teacher for Dundee City Council.
In addition to being a drummer, Matt is also classically trained cellist and regularly performs on both instruments for various orchestras, local song writers, jazz quartets, musical theatre productions and various bands - recently supporting The Red Hot Chilli Pipers for their Aberdeen University Freshers Week headline performance!
Through this involvement, Matt is able to bring a variety of styles to the ceilidh band and fuses a traditional drumming style with some modern twists! A keen ceilidh dancer, Matt can also call any of our dances.
Jenna Main
Fiddle
Jenna received violin lessons from the North East of Scotland Music School prior to studying music at the University of Aberdeen leading the University Symphony Orchestra during her time there.
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Since graduating, Jenna has taught violin/viola and piano and continues to work as a freelance musician with various bands, orchestras and ensembles across all genres; including previously touring the U.K. and Europe with an Australian folk rock band and appearing on stage with ‪Russell Watson‬ and ‪Susan Boyle‬!
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Whilst continuing her career as a professional musician, Jenna works full time for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, as Regional Development Executive for Scotland. Jenna is our 2nd fiddle player for when we use a four piece line up.
Ian Christie
Drum kit
Ian graduated from the University of Aberdeen in June 2018, focussing in percussion performance. After graduating from the University of Aberdeen, Ian completed a Masters in Percussion Performance in Las Vegas before returning to Scotland in summer 2020.
Ian is now working as a percussion instructor in secondary schools in Fife and Clackmannanshire. Professionally, Ian plays in a number of ceilidh bands and is a frequent player in the pit for amateur dramatic musicals and operas.
Stu Small
Keyboard
Bio coming soon
Jenna Main
Fiddle
Jenna received violin lessons from the North East of Scotland Music School prior to studying music at the University of Aberdeen leading the University Symphony Orchestra during her time there.
​
Since graduating, Jenna has taught violin/viola and piano and continues to work as a freelance musician with various bands, orchestras and ensembles across all genres; including previously touring the U.K. and Europe with an Australian folk rock band and appearing on stage with ‪Russell Watson‬ and ‪Susan Boyle‬!
​
Whilst continuing her career as a professional musician, Jenna works full time for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, as Regional Development Executive for Scotland. Jenna is our 2nd fiddle player for when we use a four piece line up.
Ian Christie
Drum kit | Keyboard
Ian graduated from the University of Aberdeen in June 2018, focussing in percussion performance. After graduating from the University of Aberdeen, Ian completed a Masters in Percussion Performance in Las Vegas before returning to Scotland in summer 2020.
Ian is now working as a percussion instructor in secondary schools in Fife and Clackmannanshire. Professionally, Ian plays in a number of ceilidh bands and is a frequent player in the pit for amateur dramatic musicals and operas.
Ian Christie
Drum kit | Keyboard
Ian graduated from the University of Aberdeen in June 2018, focussing in percussion performance. After graduating from the University of Aberdeen, Ian completed a Masters in Percussion Performance in Las Vegas before returning to Scotland in summer 2020.
Ian is now working as a percussion instructor in secondary schools in Fife and Clackmannanshire. Professionally, Ian plays in a number of ceilidh bands and is a frequent player in the pit for amateur dramatic musicals and operas.