Formed by members of multiple award-winning Celtic bands, Cúlra is a new folk quintet erupting from Baltimore's vibrant Trad scene. Their signature sound is a mix of original tunes and songs that draw influence from Irish, Scottish, and Scandinavian tradition. Their diverse instrumentation, infectious melodies, and contagious energy result in a live show that won't be easily forgotten.
Flute
Seamus Sloan's musical journey began at the age of 10 when he first picked up the flute. His dedication led him to pursue a degree in flute from the Cincinnati Conservatory, followed by a master's program at Towson University. Though classically trained, the discovery and study of the West Irish Flute tradition has been a revelation and for him there is no looking back.
Whether playing at a pub session or a concert hall, Seamus brings the unique sound of traditional flute technique and style everywhere he goes and hopes to bring others along in the discovery of new and traditional music.
Bodhran
Peter Krutschnitt has been drumming since he was 11 when his eldest sister was given a drum set and he was told he was not allowed to play it. He got a bachelors degree in percussion performance from Marietta College and discovered the bodhrán shortly after. Despite growing up listening to The Irish Rovers and the rest, learning to play the music has brought an entire new respect to the tradition.
When not with Cúlra, you can catch him drumming, singing, and playing the Irish whistle for The Pilgrims of Deep Run, playing drum kit with Shelby Morgan, or teaching at Krush It Drums and Percussion.
Bouzouki/Cittern, Pipes
Bill Brown began his musical journey at the tender age of 8. After many years of watching his Grandfather play fiddle in a string band, he pursued the violin for a few years. Unhappy with the music being taught, he gave up the fiddle for the bass guitar which became his main instrument into his 20s. A chance visit to the Philadelphia Folk Festival with Wolfstone as the headline act sparked his love of celtic music. Since that time, he's pushed to make his mark on the music of his heritage, both to honor the past and ensure the music endures into the future.
Fiddle, Guitar, Lead Vocals
Gary Eurice first picked up the violin at age 8 in an effort to avoid playing percussion in his elementary school orchestra. Three years later, a good friend and teacher introduced him to the world of Irish Trad which, after starting out as more of a passive hobby, would eventually grow into a lifelong obsession. While an experienced and enthusiastic performer, Gary has a passion for instrumental composition and enjoys writing and recording new tunes and arrangements that both evolve and honor the traditions of Northwestern European folk music.
Banjo
Charley Beller grew up in Western New York in a house filled with folk singing and contra dancing where he developed a deep love for Irish and American traditional music. He brings a sparkling tenor banjo sound to jigs, reels, and songs. When not playing with Cúlra, he can be found playing banjo, guitar, or flute at dances and Irish sessions around Maryland.
Bookings and inquiries: culraband@gmail.com