David Chiasson - Harmonicist / Guitarist

General Background:

I have been playing harmonica since age 6 (1958). I am primarily a tune player and concert-style accompanist. I play a range of harmonicas from 10-hole standard diatonic to special-tuned concert harmonicas to chromatic.

I have been playing guitar since age 18 (1970). I am primarily a concert-style accompanist, specializing in traditional and folk styles, as well as orchestral/choral accompaniment. I play a 12-string acoustic guitar.

I play both harmonica and guitar together, as well as play either instrument individually.

I am available primarily in the Halifax area (I do not drive), but I am willing to travel if arrangements can be made.

My Musical Experience:

As a harmonicist I first played with a band at age 9 (1961). I have played with many bands, choirs, and have done solo performances since that time.

In more recent years, I have specialized in background music and choral work, having played guitar and harmonica with St. Paul's Folk Choir (Dartmouth) from 1990 until 2001, and as a harmonicist with Zeccheus Tree Music Ministry, St. Mary's Basilica (Halifax) fom 2001 to 2003. Since 2003 I have played more on a free-lance basis with several church music ministries in various Christian denominations.

I have volunteered with Shining Lights Choir, a street choir project and also have volunteered at our veterans' hospital and a few nursing homes.

In addition to playing, I have organized and directed variety shows and pub nights of varying kinds, for parishes and for organizations and charities.

I am currently a member of a folk band called Fog Along The Coast, and a WWII era band called HomeFires. I also play as one half of a duet with Bruce Stewart. As well, I am available for solo work.

I also write poetry and have a presentation that incorporates both poetry and music. This presentation has been staged successfully several times since 2001 in pub settings as well as concert settings.

Some examples of what I offer:

Concert/Tunes:    I play a wide range of traditional Celtic & Acadian tunes. I also play some original compositions that would be similar in nature to the above mentioned. I play most of the tunes on harmonica, accompanying myself with guitar.

Accompaniment:    I offer harmonica accompaniment for singers, either individually or in choral assembly, widely ranging across folk, traditional, contemporary, spiritual, and other similar styles. I do not play blues style. I also offer guitar accompaniment for the same on 6 or 12-string acoustic guitar.

Studio Work:    I am available for studio sessions in the production of commercials, film scores, or cd recording of music of the various styles described above, playing either harmonica, guitar, or both.

Conventions/Receptions:    I am available for (specialize in) background music for conventions, receptions, dinners, etc. I have an extensive repertoire of music suitable for most occasions, in the styles mentioned above. I can either accompany singer(s) or perform solo.

Church Services:    I am available to accompany singers, either individually or in choral assembly, for religious services of various kinds including weddings, funerals, and other special occasions.

Currently Available For Choir Service:    I am currently not affiliated with any particular church choir and would be available in Halifax. If you are a parish choir director and interested in adding the unique and enriching sound of harmonica accompaniment to your instrument section, please contact me.

Lessons:

I teach harmonica lessons in the aural tradition as well as tab, with a focus on traditional, folk and accompaniment styles. I also teach basic guitar accompaniment. Lessons are taught in my home from late September until early June.

Contact Me:

e-mail: davidchiasson@eastlink.ca
phone: (902) 423-6418.

Thank You.