ROBIN PETRIE
ROBIN PETRIE has been performing popular and seldom- heard music on the hammered dulcimer since 1980. With the help of her husband/partner Danny Carnahan, Robin researched and selected all the carols for her two Gourd Music recordings, A Victorian Christmas and A Victorian Noel. These favorite carols are all now included in this book, representing one comer of Robin's eclectic repertoire and musical influences. Robin has appeared with Danny in the British Isles, New Zealand, and across North America performing and singing in folk and acoustic music festivals and clubs of all sizes and descriptions. Their stage shows are a lively mix of original balladry and contemporary songs, colored by influences from Europe, Nashville, New Orleans, and beyond. Recently she added a small piano accordion to their instrumental mix-an instrument which she plays with increasing enthusiasm. When asked why a dulcimer player should be drawn to the accordion, Robin replies, 'Because I never have to tune it.' Both near her home in Albany, California, and at events across the country, Robin is highly sought after as a dulcimer teacher and workshop leader, helping aspiring dulcimer players explore the potential of her 'free-style' approach to melody and ornamentation.