Gillian Head is a fiddler with a sound that exemplifies the spirit and drive of traditional Cape Breton music. Her most recent release, Tidal (2018), received award nominations from both Music Nova Scotia and the East Coast Music Association. When not performing, Gillian teaches fiddling at L'école de musique Raveston in Chéticamp, Nova Scotia. “...it is so alive and powerful, flat out fun fiddling that there is no way you can keep from falling in love with it.” -Irish American News, 2018
CAPE BRETON — THIS IS OUR MOMENT! The 2026 East Coast Music Awards are coming to Sydney this May, and CBMIC is calling on our members, artists, industry partners, and the entire community to help us show Atlantic Canada how Cape Breton shows up. This isn’t just another event — this is one of the biggest music celebrations in the region. ... See MoreSee Less
The second night is over half sold, so don't wait to get your tickets! You can find them here: linktr.ee/opendoorscapebreton,This is the group bringing the show to life.
Over the coming days, we’ll be introducing each of the artists, MC's and production crew involved. Some of them were deeply influenced by this album, or by Rita MacNeil’s music in the 70s and 80s. Others didn’t know this record existed until this project began.
That mix of memory and discovery is part of what makes this collaboration so exciting. Stay tuned in the coming days as we introduce everyone.
Our second night is over half sold so don't wait to get your tickets!
Join us for a special evening celebrating the legends who helped shape Cape Breton’s incredible musical legacy.
📍 Centre 200 — Sydney, NS 📅 June 18, 2026 ⏰ 7:00 PM
This year’s Hall of Fame Inductees include: ⭐ Bill MacNeil ⭐ Buddy MacMaster ⭐ Gordie Sampson ⭐ “Out on the Mira” — written by Alister MacGillivary
Together, we’ll honour the artists and music that have carried the spirit of Cape Breton around the world. Expect an unforgettable night of celebration, storytelling, and music that reflects the rich culture of our island. 🎻
Congratulations to The Barra MacNeils on this very deserving recognition. Get your tickets to the awards show and see the Barras perform live alongside many of East Coast's best!
Lead Vocalist and Guitar Vocalist for Breton Thunder CATEGORY: Performer Blackburn International Oakland, FL US
CONTACT NAME Ashley Carruthers
Breton Thunder is an authentic Nova Scotia music production featured on Holland America Line ships, specifically performing on the Volendam and Zuiderdam during Canada and New England itineraries. The show highlights the region's Celtic, Scottish, and Gaelic roots with fiddling, folk, and pop-rock music, providing an energetic, foot-stomping experience for guests.
Job Details DESCRIPTION CASTING CALL – LEAD MALE VOCALIST & GUITAR VOCALIST BRETON THUNDER – Holland America Line
Blackburn International is seeking an exceptional Lead Male Vocalist and a Guitar Vocalist to join Breton Thunder, a dynamic, high-energy live music production celebrating the musical traditions of Cape Breton and Canada’s East Coast, fused with contemporary folk and rock performance.
This is a premium international contract opportunity performing aboard Holland America Line, working within a world-class production framework.
Applicants must be Canadian or U.S. citizens.
LEAD MALE VOCALIST A powerful male contemporary lead vocalist with strong storytelling ability and commanding stage presence.
Rehearsals: Las Vegas, USA 6 April – 24 April 2026
Onboard Contract: 25 April – 18 July 2026
Second Contract Block: 18 August – 26 October 2026
Requirements
• Outstanding contemporary lead vocal ability • Strong stage presence and audience connection • Experience performing in professional live settings • Ability to work within a tight, high-standard ensemble • Familiarity with Cape Breton / East Coast / Celtic music styles is a strong advantage
GUITAR VOCALIST A singer-guitarist capable of delivering strong lead vocals while performing confidently on acoustic and electric guitar.
Rehearsals: Las Vegas, USA 20 April – 10 May 2026
Onboard Contract: 11 May – 20 June 2026
Second Contract Block: 12 July – 8 October 2026
Requirements
• Strong contemporary vocals • Excellent guitar instrumental ability (acoustic and electric) • Confident stage presence and audience interaction • Experience performing in professional live settings • Ability to work within a tight, high-standard ensemble • Familiarity with Cape Breton / East Coast / Celtic music styles is a plus
TO APPLY Please send:
• Performance CV / resume • Headshot or recent photo • Video links showcasing vocal performance (and guitar if applicable)
Email submissions to:
casting@blackburninternational.com
Subject line: Breton Thunder Casting – Lead Male Vocalist / Guitar Vocalist
DURATION Apr 6, 2026 - Oct 26, 2026
SALARY $1,000.00 – $1,200.00 per week
HOW TO APPLY APPLY BY EMAIL casting… *NOTE: Do not copy/paste the above email address as it is encoded with SPAM protection. Just click it to initiate an email from your preferred email client.