Neil Emberg has spent over 30 years sharing Glengarry’s Celtic heritage through music, blending tradition with original songwriting as front man of Hadrian’s Wall. A performer, mentor, and community volunteer, his contributions have helped carry Glengarry’s musical legacy across North America and beyond.
Formed at the Alexandria Curling Club in 2004, The Fridge Full of Empties has become a beloved fixture in Glengarry’s Celtic music scene. For over 20 years, they’ve brought traditional tunes to life with heart, humour, and harmony on hometown stages and throughout the region.
In 1993, Brian and Elizabeth Caddell came together from different Celtic backgrounds and since that time they have worked to perform and promote Celtic music. Elizabeth (nee MacDonald) is a local girl who grew up in Glengarry. She took piano lessons at a young age and...
Hughie’s family roots in Glengarry go back to the late 1790s. He grew up with eight sisters and five brothers on the family farm near Martintown. His father, William, had a great influence on Hugh, teaching him to play the guitar at the age of six. His siblings recall that there was always music in the house and their mother, Margaret Kennedy, frequently would dance with the children in the kitchen.
John Paul was born in Apple Hill in Glengarry County on March 25th, 1930. He learned to play the guitar at the age of seven so that he could accompany his mother Laurette Ranger Vachon when she played the violin.
Born in 1939 and raised in Greenfield, Jackie Smith was a true “Glengarry Lad;” he was a proud life long resident of the 4th of Kenyon. From his early years, Jackie was lover of Scot’s tunes. On many occasions he would recount stories of his youth when, as a small...
James Stewart Nixon, born Oct. 19, 1931, was the son of Leslie and Margaret (Barton) Nixon. His musical ability stemmed from both sides of the family which included playing the piano, organ, accordion, guitar and fiddle. His grandfather (also James Nixon) would lilt...
Sidney Plamondon (Plamador) was born in St. Regis, Huntingdon, Quebec, on October 26, 1910. When he was four years old, his mother bought him a violin for Christmas. Sid would play his violin every chance he got. When his mother was tired of hearing him, he would go...
Paddy Kelly is a man of many talents. Not only does he have a wonderful voice, but he plays a number of instruments. Paddy was born and raised in Ottawa and began playing traditional music at an early age. His father introduced Pat to traditional music and song. His...