The Sail Cats were formed as a duo of Mark Boudreau and Bill Fahy in 2002. They feature the music of the mandolin and acoustic guitar and perform a wide range of music spanning over 100 years of musical selections - including traditional music, folk, cowboy, Celtic, jazz, and rock - sometimes combining the styles and songs in the same number.
Both musicians play the acoustic guitar and mandolin, on vintage instruments. Mark "Conrad" Boudreau is an accomplished solo musician who has over 20 years of performing throughout the USA at coffeehouse, festivals, clubs, and jails. Bill Fahy was a founding member of the Tired Hands String Band, one of Central NY's finest old time groups, and also has performed solo. The Sail Cats have performed live on WAER radio, the Syracuse University Public radio station, the Augusta Heritage Center in Elkins, West Virginia, The Pickin Parlor in Blowing Rock, North Carolina, The Rome Art and Community Center, and numerous venues throughout Central NY over the past 5 years.
The group recently added John Brett, a founding member of the notorious "Thumpwhackers" from Ottawa, Canada. John brings a unique musical and stage presence to the group and plays the standup bass and guitar. Their combined talents and varied musical perspectives give the Sail Cats a truly unique sound.
The members perform with vintage Gibson Guitars and Mandolins and at many performances display and discuss the history of the fine instruments that they play.
Steeped in Tradition, but open to newer compositions, the Sail Cats blend the best of the old and new (sometimes in the same piece). Reminiscent of the Brother duos of the 20's and 30's, the Sail Cats feature driving instrumentals played on vintage instruments from the period, combined with tight vocal harmonies. An evening with the Sail Cats promises to be fun and entertaining.
For more information, or booking - contact Bill Fahy at 315-336-3390
