Dan McKinnon
From Halifax Nova Scotia, Dan McKinnon make his debut appearance at Irvine Folk Club on Wednesday 25th May and by all accounts, this is an artist in the not-to-be-missed category.
Dan started off playing French Horn in various ensembles and youth orchestras and this kindled his love for a variety of musical styles. It was at the end of his first year at Teacher Training College that he picked up his sister’s acoustic guitar and discovered his newfound musical passion.
Canada’s best known and best loved folk musician Stan Rogers remains Dan’s biggest musical influence. He first heard the music of Stan Rogers in 1979 and it was several years later before he heard him live. Dan has now clocked up 30 years of being a professional musician and has six Recordings to his name.
He has a rich and warm, strong baritone voice and a Finger Picking Guitar style. Dan tells stories in song. His songwriting skills are said to be as powerful as his voice.
Dan tours annually in the UK, also plays in the USA and has toured South Australia. He is in such admiration of Stan Rogers that he created a Dan sings Stan show which includes snippets about Stan’s life as well as his songs.
So for those already in the know about the talented Dan McKinnon or the simply curious, make your way on Wednesday 25th May for 8pm to Irvine Folk Club in Vineburgh Community Centre in Quarry Road.
Looking slightly ahead, on Friday 10th June the Ardrossan Highland Games Folk Night at The Lauriston Hotel features Dave Gibb,Bluegrass Band The Daddy Naggins and Ayrshire man Ciaran Sinclair. Tickets at £10 from The Lauriston.