Celtic Alchemy is an acoustic trio comprised of David Sarkisian (guitar, mandolin, banjo, bass and vocals), Don Priest (assorted percussive instruments including washboard, Irish spoons, bodhran and vocals) and Paddy Myers (guitar and vocals). In addition to Irish music we play a blend of 40's jazz, blues, contemporary artists such as Mumford and Sons, Dead South, the Decemberists, classic rock and a little country mixed in with a couple of Spanish songs. We love entertaining and enjoy getting our audiences involved. Some of us having theatrical backgrounds helps immensely.
David Sarkisian started playing guitar when he was 8 years old. Over the years he played in pit bands for various theatrical productions, learning a new stringed instrument when necessary: banjo, mandolin, bass. He was destined to play in an Irish band. 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 holding down the groove for us. An original member of the band, Don and his assortment of drums, spoons, triangles and other “banging toys” adds color and texture to the sound of the band. He also contributes some background vocals and is just a fun guy to watch.
Paddy Myers of Irish descent (me mam's from Wicklow) spent many Easter holidays in and around Dublin listening to Irish music in many a pub, now it's in me veins. Don and I are two of the original members of the band and now we are both grateful to welcome David aboard this Irish Rover. David has been my vocal coach for close to thirty years during my time performing in theaters around the valley. Our main emphasis is to have fun playing music and to make sure our audiences have fun too.
