Charlie Abel - One Man Ceilidh Band One man, full-band sound! Live Scottish ceilidh music, and expert dance calling.

I need a small, safe performance area with access to a standard mains power supply. Around 2m x 2m is usually sufficient for the One Man Ceilidh Band setup. Good access for loading equipment and nearby parking are appreciated. For outdoor events, the performance area must be fully covered and protected from the weather.

Please let me know the venue address, access and setup times, where I can load in and park, and whether there are any stairs or access restrictions. It is also useful to know the approximate performance area, location of power sockets and whether the venue has a sound limiter or any particular noise restrictions.

Yes. I am fully self-contained and bring a professional PA system suitable for the event, together with appropriate lighting. My equipment is PAT tested and I carry Public Liability Insurance. For larger events or venues with an installed sound system, I am also happy to discuss using or connecting to the venue's equipment.

Yes. Recorded background music can be provided before and between ceilidh sets. I can also provide an optional disco/DJ service after the ceilidh, with a wide mix of music and requests welcomed. This can be added when discussing your event requirements.

Some of the highlights of my career have been performing with Iron Broo at the T in the Park ceilidh tent, where we appeared eight times, and playing a sell-out ceilidh at Aberdeen Music Hall. I also love performing at Aberdeen’s historic Beach Ballroom, one of Scotland’s great dance venues. Internationally, I toured Brazil with the Lorne Scottish Dance Band, including a performance at the Copacabana Palace in Rio de Janeiro, toured Spain with Iron Broo and di many gigs in various places, Italy, Norway. Latvia, Germany, Sicily, Sardegna, , and toured Japan with the American experimental rock band The Red Krayola.

Weddings are probably my favourite. A ceilidh brings different generations together and gets guests mixing, laughing and dancing even if they have never danced before. I also really enjoy private parties, Burns Nights and corporate events where a Scottish ceilidh can give visitors a memorable taste of Scotland.

I have been a professional accordionist and ceilidh musician for more than 30 years. I founded Iron Broo Ceilidh Band in 1992 and have since performed at more than 1,000 weddings, as well as parties, corporate events, festivals and international events across the UK and Europe. The One Man Ceilidh Band developed as a way of bringing the same lively music, experienced dance calling and full ceilidh atmosphere to smaller venues and events using live accordion, MIDI bass and foot percussion.

My musical influences are quite varied. In Scottish traditional music, Jimmy Shand and Fergie MacDonald have both been major influences, along with Aly Bain and Phil Cunningham. I also grew up listening to Irish music and songs from Foster & Allen and The Fureys. As an accordionist, Mick Foster inspired me to play, I greatly admire Richard Galliano and the completely different direction he has taken the instrument. At the other end of the musical spectrum, working with Mayo Thompson and The Red Krayola also exposed me to a much more experimental approach to music.
It’s difficult to name a single favourite artist or greatest song of all time — I enjoy too many different styles — but all of these musicians have influenced the way I play and think about music.

The performance is built around live accordion, with MIDI bass and foot percussion adding depth and drive to the music. Everything is controlled live during the performance, producing a surprisingly full and energetic ceilidh sound while keeping the setup compact and flexible.

I normally allow around 60–90 minutes to load in, set up and soundcheck. A typical evening ceilidh runs for up to three or four hours, usually with a mixture of dancing and short breaks depending on the event. Shorter performances, including one-hour ceilidhs, are also available. I’m very happy to tailor the timings to suit your schedule.

Yes, provided there is a safe, level, fully covered performance area with protection from rain and direct weather, plus a suitable power supply nearby. Outdoor ceilidhs can work really well, but the instruments and sound equipment must be kept dry and protected.

Absolutely. I have a large repertoire of Scottish ceilidh dances and tunes and can tailor the programme to suit the guests, age range and experience level. If there are particular dances or tunes you would especially like, just let me know in advance. I also adapt the programme during the evening depending on what is working best on the dance floor.

Clients often describe the ceilidhs as lively, friendly, professional and great fun. They particularly mention the clear dance calling, the full sound produced by one musician and the way complete beginners are made to feel comfortable joining in. The aim is always to create a relaxed atmosphere and keep the dance floor busy.

Yes. I provide friendly, clear dance calling throughout the ceilidh, so no previous experience is needed. I explain and walk through the dances before the music starts and adapt the programme to suit the guests. Complete beginners are very welcome, getting everyone involved is a big part of the fun.

Yes. An optional disco/DJ service can be added after the ceilidh, and I can also provide suitable music before or between sets. Ceremony music and other bespoke requirements can also be discussed, making it possible to cover several parts of your event with one flexible setup.