The Horsemen
Musical traditions, old and new, from the forgotten past to our present pleasure
Prophetic sounds and loud, arise forever
From us, and from all Ruin, unto the wise,
As melody from Memnon to the Sun.”
— Edgar Allan Poe, “The Coliseum”
Tradition and Fun
Tradition and fun are the primary touchpoints of what we do. Whether it’s a song about a comic wager with deadly consequences or the winning of a husband from the diabolical clutches of a fairy queen, our music brings the absurd, the beautiful, the tragic, and the hilarious together into the full tapestry of musical tradition. Even our new compositions keep to this basic pattern whether we are leading a chorus or providing ambience
Our Services
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Whether your patrons are looking for a rollicking good time or a quiet evening of conversation, our repertoire of classic Celtic, American, Canadian, Maritime and Folk provides the perfect setting for an evening out.
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We offer not only music but a cultural performance that is as edifying as it is entertaining. Whether you have a one-off event that needs a focal experience or a regular source of background entertainment, we have a song and a story for every occasion.
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We bring more to every performance than just entertainment. We believe that entertainment and education are two sides of the same coin, so armed with advanced degrees, certifications and lifetimes of experience not only performing but researching our shared cultural legacy, ask us about both immersive presentations and consultation for every occasion.
Key Members
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William Acken
GUITAR (ET AL.), FIDDLE, PIANO, VOCALS
William’s experience traveling has engendered a deep love of different musical forms which he brings to his performances whether through a Klezmer fiddling style or neo-medieval songs on the Oud.
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Charles Acken
BANJO, ACCORDIAN, PERCUSSION, GUITAR, VOCALS
An accomplished banjo player and drummer, Charlie’s musical gusto brings not only fun but a solid grounding to every performance.
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Dr. James Acken
BODHRÁN, WHISTLE, GUITAR, VOCALS
A student of foklore and myth, James brings a lifetime of experience drawing on longstanding traditions of song and story to every performance.
