Barry Shears at Féis Shiàtail 2010 – Port Townsend June 16 – 20

Cape Breton piper Barry Shears

Féis Shiàt-WHAT? I believe it means the Gathering in Seattle in Gaelic, but I know who to ask!  There’s an annual event held at Fort Warden in Port Townsend, WA, coming up this June 16-20 where you can learn a “focus area” Celtic art such as bagpiping in the morning, then “Try It” with other classes in the afternoon, such as Gaelic Language, Gaelic Song/singing, or Gaelic music with bagpipes, fiddle, or Cláirseach (harp).

This is a great opportunity to learn more about Gaelic culture and to learn from an award winning piper from Nova Scotia, one of the top piping regions in the world.

Barry Shears is a native of Glace Bay, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. He is an acknowledged expert on the history of traditional piping in Nova Scotia and its intrinsic connection to the Gaelic language, music and culture. An award-winning musician, Barry has performed at concerts and festivals throughout North America, as well as in Scotland and Europe.

Barry was part of the bagpipe team presenting at the historic Féis Shiàtail 2000. This is his second time presenting at the Féis.

Barry Shears from Cape Breton will be teaching bagpipe at Féis Shiàtail 2010. At the present time registration for his track is at historic lows, which represents a tremendous opportunity for a small group players to spend three days with a Cape Breton piping tradition bearer. Registration doesn’t close until May 31st, but if you’re considering coming, please drop them a note by e-mail and let them know so that they don’t cancel the track.