Rowan Tree
Rowan Tree is a recently formed acoustic ensemble that like its namesake is steeped in the folklore of traditional songs and ballads. The Rowan Tree was revered magically by the ancient Celtic Druids for its strength and resilience, and legend states that it protected against baneful energies.
The band strives to fluidly bridge with other musicians in our community by frequently inviting guest performers. In a time when community is a statement and music the language of deep connection, Rowan Tree peacefully and magically unites musicians and audiences.
All three band members are seasoned performers. Amy Welsman-McCann is a multi-instrumentalist (guitar, mandolin, violin, bouzouki) whose classical skills have granted her to perform internationally in North America and the UK, (Ealing Guitar Society, 2013.) In her youth, she studied fingerstyle guitar with Toronto Blues recording artist Mose Scarlett. She has also performed for several Hillside festival functions in the local group The Hazy Maidens. (Hillside Inside 2024, Girls and Guitars, Gospel Hour.)
Stephen Vickery has been active in the Canadian music scene as an acoustic bass player and composer since 1985 with notable performances including Mariposa Folk Festival, Lunenburg Folk Harbour, WOMAD, and the Vancouver Jazz festival.
Bernd Licht is a skilled bluegrass mandolinist and guitarist who has played with many local groups including Zamboni Jiver (1994-2001) and Chesterfield and the Sofakings (2009-2019).
Jason Sheffield is a skilled guitarist and songwriter with a knack for breathing new life into songs with his sonorous voice and musical interpretation. Jason was also a member of Chesterfield and the Sofakings (2009-2019) and has performed extensively as a soloist.
Liam Mayes is an active percussionist in several ensembles locally. He made his debut with Rowan Tree for their live shows in 2025.
Rowan Tree continues to be an active ensemble in Guelph and their shows are well-attended and celebrated. They are presently in studio recording their first collection of songs.
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