John McCusker Trio (John McCusker, Sam Kelly, & Toby Shaer)

“One of the UK’s most gifted and versatile musicians in any genre, John McCusker is equally in demand as a multi-instrumentalist, producer and composer”. – The Guardian

The John McCusker Trio is led by John McCusker, one of the most revered traditional musicians of his generation. A multi-award-winning fiddle player, producer, and composer, John has been a linchpin of contemporary Celtic music for over three decades.

John is renowned for transcending musical boundaries. Since 2008, he has toured globally in Mark Knopfler’s band, playing iconic venues like Madison Square Garden and the Royal Albert Hall. He has also performed with David Gilmour, Eric Clapton, Paul Weller, and Paolo Nutini. As an influential producer, John has shaped the folk landscape, working with Kris Drever, Kate Rusby, and Eddi Reader, alongside composing for major BBC and film soundtracks. His accolades include BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Musician of the Year.

He is joined by two of the UK folk circuit’s finest talents. Sam Kelly, a BBC Horizon Award winner and frontman of Sam Kelly & The Lost Boys, is celebrated for his spellbinding voice and genre-blending approach, which has taken him to Glastonbury and stages across Europe.

Completing the trio is Toby Shaer, a virtuoso multi-instrumentalist whose mastery of flutes, whistles, and guitars has made him a premier touring musician for Cara Dillon.

Together, The John McCusker Trio delivers a thrilling combination of instrumental brilliance, heartfelt songs, and unforgettable live energy. Their performances weave a rich tapestry of original compositions and traditional melodies, captivating audiences with warmth, humour, and world-class musical innovation.