John Coster here. Much of my life has been devoted to song writing and recording, more in a Celtic influenced folk rock style than traditional if you have to put a label on it. Many of the folks I have played with have worked with better known rock acts, like Dylan, Crosby Stills and Nash, Allman Bros, musical friends supportive in spite of my own relative obscurity. But early on, I focused on traditional music. One of my first girl friends was the sister of John Allen Cameron, Canada's "Godfather of Celtic music", so by chance, my personal life connected me to the heart of Cape Breton Music. John Allen actually was the first person to ever pay me for a gig> Anyhow some years back, a freak accident almost severed my right thumb and though healed now, the injury prevented me from playing guitar for about six months. During that time, I revisited my traditional roots by developing a repertoire of tunes on harmonica. I had played harp for years, but mainly as a lead instrument in song arrangements. Now I am an addict. I particularly love using solo tunes tremolo harps, fast agile instruments that have something to add to many traditional fiddle tunes. We have some fine sessions here in western Mass and some very good players. Though the tunes are mainly Irish, I find there is a local musical dialect really a product of the styles of the better players, and we mix in original tunes and others from related parts of the trans Atlantic tradition. I'm greatly interested of in learning who else might be out there who also uses harmonicas for this repertoire. I know Brendan Powers, Donald Black, Henry Creany, three great players, but would love to hear more. At whatever session I've been too I am indeed a novelty. This year I hope to do some instrumental recordings that would place the harmonica in the context of some decent arrangements so that its musicality more than its novelty is the focus. www.johncostermusic.com. The quality of the Celtic music I am hearing these days and of all the amazing younger players is awesome.
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Welcome to CelticRadio John, there are many musicians who visit here. One should come along to answer you soon. My days of performing music are over ( guitar, six and 12 string, bass and some mouth harp ). I have contracted a disease that makes it near impossible to play any more. I also used to write my own songs. Enough of me, WELCOME!
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I support the separation of church and hate!
IMAGINATION - the freest and largest nation in the world!
One can not profess to be of "GOD" and show intolerence and prejudice towards the beliefs of others.
Am fear nach gleidh na h–airm san t–sith, cha bhi iad aige ’n am a’ chogaidh. He that keeps not his arms in time of peace will have none in time of war.
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Is iomadh duine laghach a mhill an Creideamh. Religion has spoiled many a good man.
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Hello to you, John, form the great Navajo Nation in Northern Arizona! So glad to have you with us and I trust that you will find those around here who share your musical interests. This is a great placed for all things Celtic, so enjoy the site!
Welcome aboard and have a great day!
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Always vote for principle, though you may vote alone, and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your vote is never lost. -- John Quincy Adams
Do your duty in all things. You cannot do more, you should never wish to do less - Robert E. Lee
For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved - Romans 10:13 (KJV)
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