We are cruising into the fall series and so far behind in event blogs and posts that we figured we would start with the first Fall 2025 concert and then go backwards. It has been busy, a bit chaotic at times, and it isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
On Sept 28th we presented VANDALIA BAND. It was a gorgeous day at StoneCropAcres Winery + Vineyard with loads of sunshine. When the sun started to sink, so did the temperature but when VANDALIA took to the stage it quickly warmed back up again. This trio from the USA were welcomed with open hearts here in Ontario. The audience loved them and were quick to their feet for an encore.
Who makes up this great trio?
From rural West Virginia, Dakota Karper grew up immersed in the rich traditions of Appalachian Old-time music. From an early age, she embraced folk music, studying under master fiddler Joe Herrmann and honing her craft at the Augusta Heritage Center. Dakota also deepened her skills with classical violin at the Shenandoah Arts Academy in Winchester, VA. After spending seven years in Baltimore, she returned to Capon Bridge, WV, where she now teaches Appalachian fiddle and performs regularly throughout the region.
From West Philadelphia, Gabriel Furtado is a guitarist and singer known for his ability to weave in and out of acoustic music genres. Whether it’s playing traditional jazz with The Hot Club of Philadelphia, Bluegrass with the Cheddar Boys, Appalachian music with Rubble City String band at the West Philly Square Dance, or French musettes with Rob Curto, his rhythmic approach to the instrument sets the audience’s foot tapping. Recent engagements have seen Gabriel gracing the stages of the Kimmel Center, The Philadelphia Folk Festival, Chris’ Jazz Club and the Sellersville theater.
Vibrant and versatile cellist and teacher from DC, Ellen Gira has a unique musical voice fused with folk and traditional influences along with her classical training. Her musical projects and repertoire span numerous fiddle styles, including Scottish, Irish, Old-Time, Canadian, and Scandinavian.
When Dakota, Gabriel and Ellen took to the stage the audience was captivated right away. A night filled with all kinds of Celtic music. Some instrumental and some with vocals. It was a magical evening at the winery for sure.
Enjoy the video that captures some of our evening with Vandalia