Michael Hall

Cape Breton

Born and raised in Saint John, New Brunswick, Mike Hall was introduced to music by his father, a man with French Acadian roots who had a passion for the subject. By the time he was eight, Mike was playing the accordion and getting his first exposure to Celtic music by listening to a variety of Scottish and Irish tunes while developing a French Acadian style to his playing.

He received his first fiddle at the age of thirteen and quickly became enamoured with the music of Cape Breton players like Natalie MacMaster, Howie MacDonald, Jerry Holland, Brenda Stubbert and Ashley MacIsaac, all musicians who had readily available commercial recordings. It wasn’t until he made his first visit to Cape Breton in 2001 that Mike realized the depth of the culture and sheer volume of the music. This experience drew him back to the island repeatedly, culminating with a permanent move in 2008. For him, Cape Breton is now home.

His precise and lively style is perfect for dancers and welcomed by listeners, and this has continued to make him a popular player for house parties, dances, concerts and festivals.

In 2009, Mike released his first recording--A Legacy, Not to be Forgotten.