Gan Ainm

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Gan Ainm, taking their name from the Gaelic for "no name", are a Celtic band based in Singapore.

Started by Irish Emer O'Hara and Paul Hannon and Englishman Barry Woolhead in 2001 they initially started life as an Irish traditional band. Over the years they gradually added a few contemporary folk numbers to their repertoire and, in 2005, the addition of Scotsman Alexander Gow led them to broaden their music to include Scots tradition, becoming Singapore's only Celtic band. Being a keen songwriter and tunesmith Alexander's presence has also led to the addition of original material to the bands repertoire.

Members over the years have included musicians from Ireland, England, Scotland, Wales, Belgium, Singapore, China and The Faroe Islands. Their current (March 2008) lineup consists of: Paul Hannon (vocals; bodhran); Alexander Gow (vocals; electric and acoustic mandola; occasional fiddle and guitar); Nev Smith (tin whistles; occasional saxophone); Miles McLean (guitar; vocals)

Recent members include: Greta Scavbo (fiddle; occasional vocals), 2005-'06; Emer O'Hara (lead and backing vocals), 2006; Karen (fiddle; lead and backing vocals), 2007, Barry Woolhead (guitar; backing vocals), 2001-'07.

Gan Ainm have ben regular performers at the Singapore Cricket Club Rugby 7's Tournament for the last 4 years. They have also performed amongst an international lineup at the 2007 Mosaic Music Festival at the Esplanade in Singapore [1] and will be an integral part of this years Touch of Tartan festival at Clarke Quay as well as the Tartan Fringe at The Prince of Wales in Little India.

[edit] References

[1] Esplande Youths' Mosaic Yo!