After completing a Jazz performance degree from Temple University in Philadelphia where he studied arranging with Grammy award winning pianist Bill Cunliffe, Shawn Cunnane relocated and settled in Los Angeles where he worked as a musician, instructor, and recording artist for 13 years. He taught for National Music Workshop in four different cities and has over 17 years of teaching experience with all ages and skill levels including group ensembles. He has recorded for Disney and Ubisoft as well as countless private clients. His most recent project Sheldon & Cunnane performed close to 1000 times in 4 years. The duo was easily found entertaining on a weekly basis in wineries, restaurants, and music venues throughout Ventura, Los Angeles, and Orange counties in addition to yearly trips to the Eastern Sierras and the Gulf Coast of Florida. An avid member of the Grateful Dead community in Southern California, Shawn performed with Cubensis on over 20 occasions in place of Nate Lapointe (Bobby Womack). As a solo performer and songwriter, Shawn’s diverse style ranges from travis picking ballads with jazzy overtones to bluegrassy foot stompers. The unique textures he creates in his originals and interpretations are intimate and alluring. Shawn’s songs have been recorded and performed by many artists including David Grisman and Matt Doherty. He has been fortunate to share the stage with so many fantastic musicians including bassist Gerald Veasley and saxophonist Knoel Scott (Sun Ra Arkestra). Cunnane recently landed in Boulder County Colorado in the spring of 2018 where he has begun work on his first solo recording of original compositions. Shawn is well versed in all modern styles and enjoys sharing his connection to music with audiences and students of all ages.
Geoffrey has been playing the Great Highland Bagpipe since 2013. Throughout that time, he has acquired experience playing professionally in band, competition, and hired settings. He predominantly plays and teaches in Boulder County but is not restricted to the Front Range.
He teaches in the regimental and traditional ceilidh (kay-lee) style of piping. He also sings traditional celtic tunes in addition to playing various other types of Bagpipes, various Celtic Flutes and Whistles, Bodhran, Cahone and Cello.