My name
is Willie McArthur. I am originally from Kirkcaldy in Fife, Scotland.
I have been involved in professional music now for twelve years. During my time in New
Zealand, I played mostly in the Celtic music scene. From 1994-2002 I lived
and worked in Christchurch and around the south
island.
I returned to Scotland
and from Nov 2002 to 2006, established myself as a musician and performer in the Glasgow area.
As a solo entertainer, I present myself as a “solo act that sounds like a duo”, using harmonica as a lead instrument and playing
guitar both rhythmically and percussively. My large and varied repertoire (see song list) ranges from Scottish and Irish traditional to Celtic rock, Rock, Country, Jazz and Blues. I also have a variety of poems,
humorous songs and stories. From sensitive soul seeking ballads to rip roaring pub songs, I’m your man!! Influences
from “Christy Moore” and “Silly Wizard” to “The Levellers”, “The Pogues”,
“The Water boys”, “Creedence Clearwater Revival”, “Eric Clapton” and many more. I play
instrumentals and some of my own compositions and traditional arrangements.
I have recently released a live album titled ”Willie McArthur Live At O'Neill's”, which
has sold over 500 copies throughout the U.K and
Europe
I have my own acoustic based P.A system, (AER Domino / H&K L.U.C.A.S XT ) which is very compact, so I can fit into any area.
My performances
are strictly live and acoustic. I feel that with the depth and clarity of sound I can achieve, I prefer not to use MIDI or
DAT Backing. As I play by ear, I can fit easily into any musical situation, for example providing backing for another artist
or band. I consider myself to be an entertainer rather than just a musician, who can add life to any party. When bookings are made, I will liaise with the client and go to lengths to give
advice and make the event perfect.
In 2003, I
played at a local festival (www.zeltcafe.de) outside Stuttgart, Germany and after receiving good reviews I was invited back
in 2004. During 2005, I embarked on a European tour,
which saw me visiting Denmark, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Slovenia, Slovakia, Czechoslovakia and the Netherlands. I have
good contacts around Europe due to this trip.
On New Years eve 2002, I appeared on GMTV ‘s Hogmonay special,(Good Morning Television at New Year) which was broadcast live, U.K nationwide
on ITV from Loch Lomond. I featured in numerous slots throughout the duration
of the three hour broadcast.
As well as my solo performances I have played with a number of other acts. A description of these bands are below.
The Doghouse Roses-, Five piece Celtic rock band that played regularly at Duck Bay Marina,
Loch Lomond. I played mainly mandolin, harmonica and vocals.
Room To Roam–
An energetic duo comprising of another solo performer Stevie Thompson on
guitar and vocals and myself on vocals and mandolin, harmonica and whistles
Shebeen / The
Dublin Street Band– (NZ) Played guitar, bodhran, harmonica and vocals
in a very popular five piece Celtic rock band. I have recorded four C.D’s with this band, three live recordings, and a studio
album, “Black is The Cover.”
Origin (NZ) Played guitar, mandolin, bodhran and vocals in a traditional four piece band. Performed
concerts and appeared at the Whitestone folk festival and Waihi Bush, NZ. We wrote our own material and traditional arrangements.
Celtic Groove–
(NZ) Guitar, mandolin and bodhran, from traditional to Celtic rock, this
band played as three, four and five piece as required. I recorded studio album “Fedora” with this
band.
As from Feb 2006, I am based in Christchurch.
New Zealand. I can provide a duo, and can provide a full service for weddings and private functions, including playing
instrumentals on low whistle for walking down the aisle. I will consider all contracts and tour proposals
FOR BOOKINGS CLICK HERE