Celtic Alchemy

What They're Sayin' . . .

"I have been working with the guys from Celtic Alchemy for over 6 years now. A perfect, anytime, family friendly Irish folk band with amazing energy. They have the ability to bring traditional Irish music into any scene, and it fits seamlessly. Absolutely a perfect fit for any occasion."

Matt Nation
Barrelhouse Brewing Company

Celtic Alchemy is an acoustic trio blending rich Irish roots with blues, country, and a modern edge. Their unique sound pulls from legends like The Pogues and Dropkick Murphys, alongside inventive takes on tunes by The Dead South, The Decemberists, and Mumford & Sons.

With guitar, fiddle, mandolin, banjo, percussion, and layered harmonies, this trio delivers an experience that’s engaging, entertaining—and just the right volume for enjoying conversation, cocktails, and connection under the stars.

Debra Payne The Queen's Inn, Oakhurst, CA

“Celtic Alchemy takes you on an enchanting musical journey that weaves between traditional and current music with ease. Their fusion of wonderful melodies, ethereal vocals and intricate instrumentation create a unique soundscape that is enjoyable to experience time and again.”

Ray Settle Maximus Media

About Us . . .

Celtic Alchemy

Irish With A Twist

The Band

Celtic Alchemy is an acoustic trio comprised of Paddy Myers (lead vocals and guitar), David Sarkisian (guitar, mandolin, banjo, bass, and vocals), and Don Priest (assorted percussion and vocals).

The Music

In addition to our extensive Irish playlist, we also explore other musical genres, making our shows a mix of blues, country, a touch of classic rock, and our own versions of contemporary tunes by Mumford and Sons, The Dead South, The Decemberists, The Pogues, and the Dropkick Murphys.

The Performance

The members of Celtic Alchemy are a well-seasoned group, as each of us brings many years of performing experience to the stage. We have all played in musical ensembles representing a wide range of genres from Americana to Zydeco. All that performing, in venues large and small, has taught us about dynamics and how to control our sound. As a result, we’re not so loud that folks can’t have a conversation while we’re playing – or the servers can’t do their job.

The Mission

Our primary goal is to have fun playing music and to do our best to insure the audience does too. To achieve this we strive to be entertaining, engaging and a bit educational. And we pride ourselves on being very, very good at it.

Paddy Myers is our bona fide Irishman (“Me Mam's from Tubergregan”). He spent many years in and around Dublin listening to and learning Irish music from musicians working the local pubs. In addition to his band experience, he has an extensive theatre background, appearing in both Broadway musicals and dramatic productions around the Central Valley, which accounts for the unique storytelling ability he brings to our performances.

David Sarkisian started playing guitar when he was 8 years old. Over the years he’s played in pit bands for various theatrical productions, learning a new stringed instrument whenever necessary. He also served many years as music director at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Fresno and as a private vocal coach. In November 2021, he answered the call from his long-time friend, Paddy Myers, and joined in the Celtic Alchemy merriment.

Every Irish band needs a Priest, and we are fortunate to have Don Priest on percussion. An original member of the band, Don’s musical journey also began at an early age by playing drums and sax in high school. Life then took him in many directions, but he always stayed close to music as a writer/photographer and radio DJ. Now his assortment of drums, spoons, washboard and other ‘banging toys’ adds color and texture to our sound.

About Our Music . . .

1

Full Rigged Ship @ Maximus Studios 2:32
Full Rigged Ship @ Maximus Studios
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2

The Wellerman - Live at The Siren 3:47
The Wellerman - Live at The Siren
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