Brandon Kennedy - Celtic loop artist
Overview
As a dedicated Celtic musician, I bring authentic Irish, Scottish, and Celtic traditions to life through Irish fiddle, acoustic guitar, and vocals, using loop pedal technology to create rich, layered performances. My foundation combines formal training—B.A. and M.A. in Songwriting from Berklee—with deep cultural immersion gained through annual journeys to Ireland’s legendary west coast pubs. With 120+ performances annually spanning pubs, weddings, corporate events, house parties, memorial services, and festivals, I’ve absorbed the authentic nuances of Irish folk music through years of dedication. This isn’t just music I’ve learned—it’s a living tradition I’ve breathed for years. Sláinte!
Reviews
3 reviews
Joy J.
April 20, 2026Great musician, even greater human!
Brandon played at our outdoor one-day festival, and it was a highlight of the day! His knowledge of renaissance music is so impressive, and he and his bandmate are incredible musicians. He led the audience in singing Happy Birthday to our honoree, and it was wonderful to have him handle that so I could tend to the cake. He not only worked out event, but he even came out and enjoyed the activities before his performance time. I will wholeheartedly hire Brandon again for work events - and personal as well!
Hired as: Celtic Music, Fiddler, Guitarist, Medieval Entertainment, Multi-Instrumentalist, Singing Guitarist
Brandon Kennedy - Celtic loop artist
Playing for Joys event was, well…a joy! Just an absolutely beautiful day at a wonderful venue playing for a well run and unique event. Really couldn’t have asked for anything more. Her staff was friendly, everyone seemed to be really enjoying themselves, overall just something I was privileged to be a part of. Thank you so much for having us!
Susan D.
August 10, 2025Wonderful performance and wonderful to work with
Brandon Kennedy was wonderful. Everyone commented on how much they like the music . Working with Brandon was really wonderful and his performance at the memorial service was beautiful and very moving. He would be wonderful to have at any type of event as he really tries to make things perfect for what you have in mind, Everone who came commented on how much they enjoyed the music.
Hired as: One Man Band
Kelsey R.
June 23, 2024Phenomenal!
Finding Brandon was a stroke of incredible luck -- we are SO happy we booked with him!
We looked far and wide for wandering performers to help round out our vision for our Ren Faire-themed anniversary party -- and after finding Brandon's profile, we reached out to see if he would be willing to help this idea become reality. He was responsive, professional, thoughtful, and creative as we discussed, and he came up with a pitch for a crew of wandering musicians that ideally matched what we were looking for. We booked, feeling pretty confident everything would work well.
What a great decision; we were absolutely DELIGHTED by Brandon and his colleagues. They showed up on time, in costume, and got right to work providing a soundtrack to our day. They performed some together, and then spread out to provide entertainment all over the party grounds. Each performer individually was so talented and friendly, and our guests kept coming up to me to compliment their sound. Exactly our vision, and more!
Brandon was so easy to work with and he just "got" the party and our requests, and then he came through with a fabulous troupe full of great musicians. I'd book them again in a heartbeat!
Hired as: Medieval Entertainment
Brandon Kennedy - Celtic loop artist
Was extremely fortunate to have been a part of Kelseys renn fair anniversary celebration. It was quite clear that they had put a ton of effort into this event from the moment I showed up. This was really one of those "this is why we do it" type gigs where the clients were great, the event was well run, and everything just went really smoothly. Wishing "the Ryans" many more anniversary celebrations. Thanks for having me and all the best. -Brandon
Booking information
Price range: $250+
Languages: English
Gig length: 10 - 360 minutes
Insurance: $1,000,000 - Performers insurance
What to expect
Brandon Kennedy - Celtic Musician
About Brandon
Brandon Kennedy is an accomplished Celtic musician specializing in authentic Irish and Scottish traditional music. A master of Irish fiddle and acoustic guitar with vocals, he creates rich, layered performances using loop pedal technology that allows him to accompany himself seamlessly.
With annual pilgrimages to Ireland, Brandon brings back genuine musical traditions from across the Emerald Isle, having performed in countless pubs and traditional sessions both abroad and throughout the United States. His dedication to authenticity is matched by his formal training—he holds both a B.A. and M.A. in Songwriting from Berklee College of Music.
Brandon comes fully equipped with traditional Scottish Highland attire and period costumes, ready to create the perfect atmosphere for any event. Whether you need him as the centerpiece of your celebration or providing elegant background ambiance, his ultimate goal is to elevate your special occasion.
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Services
**Weddings**
Transform your special day with elegant Celtic melodies. Brandon specializes in:
- Ceremony prelude music as guests are seated
- Custom arrangements for your bridal processional
- Cocktail hour entertainment
- Reception performances
- Live violin accompaniment for first dances
Let him craft the perfect musical backdrop for your wedding celebration.
**Private House Parties**
Experience the magic of authentic Irish music in your own home—just as it’s been shared for centuries. Brandon brings warmth and tradition to:
- Neighborhood gatherings
- Cultural celebrations
- St. Patrick’s Day parties
- Birthday celebrations
- Intimate dinner music
- Themed concerts (Ceilidh!)
Whether you prefer refined background music or a lively traditional concert, Brandon adapts to your gathering’s unique spirit.
**Corporate Events**
Impress clients and employees with sophisticated Celtic entertainment:
- Ambient music during presentations
- Grand opening celebrations
- Employee appreciation concerts
- Client entertainment
- Virtual and in-person performances
**Memorial Services**
Brandon offers respectful, heartfelt musical tributes to honor your loved ones. He has performed at funeral homes and graveside services, providing comfort through the healing power of music with utmost reverence and sensitivity.
**Contemporary Covers**
While specializing in Celtic music, Brandon is equally skilled in contemporary repertoire. His experience as a house musician at martini bars and vineyards means he can seamlessly blend modern favorites with traditional favorites on request.
**Ensemble Performances**
Expand your event with a full Celtic ensemble. Brandon can arrange groups featuring:
- Additional fiddlers and flutists
- Banjo and guitar players
- Traditional singers
- Bodhrán and bouzouki players
- Irish dancers
**Music Instruction**
Professional lessons available in:
- Irish fiddle/violin
- Guitar
- Songwriting
- Music theory
Offered both in-person and virtually through multiple platforms, backed by four years of professional teaching experience.
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Professional Commitment
**What You Can Expect:**
- Punctual, organized, and respectful service
- Art-focused approach prioritizing your musical vision
- Budget-conscious collaboration
- Fully insured professional
- Timely communication and thorough preparation
**What Sets Brandon Apart:**
Brandon is not a classically-trained violinist who learned a few Irish tunes—he’s an authentic Celtic musician deeply immersed in Irish and Scottish folk traditions. Years of cultural study and hands-on experience in traditional settings ensure genuine, nuanced performances that honor these rich musical heritages.
You’ll work with a dedicated professional who responds promptly to correspondence and arrives well-prepared, never rushing in at the last minute.
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**Ready to bring your musical vision to life? Brandon loves unique challenges and creative ideas—no dream is too bold!**
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**Keywords:** Irish Singer • Celtic Musician • Traditional Irish Music • Irish Folk Entertainment • Celtic Music Artist • Maryland Irish Music
Additional booking notes
No requirements, I provide all my own sound. However it should be noted I am able to provide service to remote locations that may not have power via use of a battery powered PA system.
Services offered
Upcoming booked events
August 2026
17
Monday
Nonprofit Event
10:00am - 10:30am
•
Columbia, MD
Past booked events
June 2026
30
Tuesday
Funeral/Memorial Service
1:30pm - 2:15pm
•
Burke, VA
April 2026
18
Saturday
Nonprofit Event
3:00pm - 4:00pm
•
Washington, DC
March 2026
28
Saturday
Festival
10:00am - 1:00pm
•
Aldie, VA
21
Saturday
House Party
7:00pm - 11:00pm
•
Fairfax, VA
January 2026
17
Saturday
Funeral/Memorial Service
11:00am - 12:00pm
•
Silver Spring, MD
December 2025
06
Saturday
Christmas Party
6:00pm - 9:00pm
•
Annapolis, MD
October 2025
17
Friday
Funeral/Memorial Service
12:30pm - 2:00pm
•
Fairfax, VA
September 2025
24
Wednesday
House Party
2:30pm - 3:30pm
•
Fredericksburg, VA
20
Saturday
Wedding Ceremony
2:30pm - 3:30pm
•
Columbia, MD
July 2025
21
Monday
Funeral/Memorial Service
11:00am - 12:00pm
•
Falls Church, VA
March 2025
17
Monday
Cultural Event
1:00pm - 2:00pm
•
Purcellville, VA
June 2024
15
Saturday
Anniversary Party
1:00pm - 4:00pm
•
Sharpsburg, MD
Set list
Whiskey in the Jar
Fields of Athenry
Galway Girl
Nancy Spain
The Wellarman
Skye Boat Song
Wild Rover
Dirty Old Town
Dublin in the Rare Old Times
Black Velvet Band
Donegal Danny
Finnegans Wake
Lord Franklin
Galway Shawl
....and lots more!
Influences and inspiration
The Dubliners, Kate Rusby, Alasdaire Fraser, Bruce Molsky, Teada, Martin Hayes, Frankie Gavin, Kevin Burke, Leahy, Liz Carrol, James Kelly, Darlingside, Old Crow Medicine show, John Mailander, the High Kings, the Pogues, the Bothy Band, Cara Dillon, Damien OKane, Dolores Oriardan, Great Big Sea, Julie Fowlis
Setup requirements
I provide all my own equipment for your event