Laurel Halsey

Audiences at events can expect pleasant, calming background music, the sonic version of beautiful floral arrangements dotted around the venue. My performance contributes to the ambience, but still allows for conversation to flow. I play beloved tunes that are familiar (and sing along-able) to most people, along with a few deep cuts for those who delight in the relatively obscure, plus a handful of catchy originals. One Saturday I was playing at a farmers market and a man stopped by to tell me that he'd heard my music wafting through his apartment window that morning, and that it was the nicest way to wake up that he'd ever experienced. Another time, I played several songs prior to a wedding ceremony as guests were filing in; several of them told me afterwards that the music I provided was the perfect addition to what was already a very special event.

When I was young I sang in my school choir and studied piano and voice. As a brand-new adult I crafted piano (and later accordion) versions of cover songs that I would perform at open mics. I discovered around this time that I could write music, as well. Over the years I have continued expanding my repertoire of covers, and I perform frequently at cafes, markets, weddings, breweries, and the like. I also regularly play my original songs both solo and as part of a duo or a full backing band. In addition, I sing harmonies and play keys in the Washington DC-based ensemble The North Country, of which I have been an active member since 2016. I perform and record with the Philadelphia-based Joshua Curry band, too, and participate in other projects on an ad hoc basis. Previously, I fronted the indie pop trio Bal Boheme, releasing two EPs that garnered comparisons to Tennis, The Flamingos, and Regina Spektor, and was part of the indie folk trio Oust.

I can bring my own amp and microphones if such equipment is not already provided by the venue.

I ask for an additional $50 travel fee if I have to rent a car to drive to the gig. I'm a city girl and don't own a car myself!