The Gawlers have earned a beloved place in the delighted hearts of varied audiences across the Northeast.
The Gawler Family Band
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Sisters Molly, Edith and Elsie swoon the crowd with the beautiful harmonies and clear connection.
I overheard an infectious, enthusiastic sound swirling around the crowd gathered under a music tent at Maine’s Common Ground Fair many years ago. I followed the pull and found myself surrounded by smiling faces, tapping feet and upbeat traditional tunes offered by this incredibly talented family of musicians, The Gawler Family Band.
I met Molly (left) many years later, after discovering we shared the same meditation mentor, Ray Reitze. My brain clicked and I realized she was not only supporting Ray’s spiritual work in the world (she helps him with email and zoom:), but was a Gawler in the family band! ummm hello!
We sat together at a meditation workshop led by Ray. Later that day, I had to ask if I could photograph their band at One Longfellow Square. And here we are!
Through their music, they spread laughter, love, compassion, positivity and messages for peace. The show left me feeling more peaceful and connected to Life.
John and Ellen Gawler and their daughters Molly, Edith, and Elsie, and joined by Bennett Konesni and Ethan Tischler, bring an assortment of old and new sounds from many folk traditions. They accompany interweaving family harmonies with fiddles, banjo, wooden banjo, cello, guitar, ukulele and piano as well as a few surprises.
Elsie Gawler (right) is a multi-instrumentalist and songster rooted in Maine's traditional folk music and culture. With her family she has played throughout the state and beyond, sharing traditional fiddle tunes, songs, and original works since she was 6 years old. From this foundation she has branched out and launched her debut solo album, Sweet As Honey. The album is a collection of 9 original songs inspired by sacred connection to earth and community.
Parents, Ellen & John Gawler must just beam when they reflect on where all the lessons and practice sessions brought their family since they were all a young family. From over here it sure paid off. What they have created is truly special and inspiring. They are a gift.
