Neil Beaton

Neil is an established and versatile Cape Breton fiddler who has been playing for over four decades. Originally from Little Judique, Neil was a regular on the square dance scene. In fact, he was the very first weekly summer dance player at the famous West Mabou Hall, 30 years ago! He has performed at numerous festivals, concerts, and house sessions, and even made a guest appearance on the well-known television show Up Home Tonight. For the past 25 years, Neil has been residing in Edmonton, Alberta. During this time, he has continued to share his passion for Celtic music. He was an integral member of the Celtic rock fusion band Bat McGrath in the early 1990s, and more recently played with the Irish folk band Grace O’Malley. Currently he plays with The Down East Band, a group specializing in both the Maritime and Newfoundland genres.