BAND MEMBERS
John O’Connell | Vocals, Guitar, Whistle
John is a native of Dublin, Ireland, whose professional music career began in Portland, Oregon, where his bands were well known for their energy and musicianship. Raised on traditional Irish tunes, perhaps the only thing he loves more than a rollicking jig is a tear-jerking ballad. John now makes his home in El Dorado county in the California foothills and is a popular member of the local music scene.
Jenny Rutherford | Fiddle, Vocals, Guitar
Jenny has been involved in Foothills’ old time country, and Celtic music for years, having been a member of several bands. Though by no means a newbie, she is the most recent addition to the band. She showed up one day a gig and mentioned she had her fiddle in the car. She was invited to sit in, and the rest, as they say, is history. Jenny plays fiddle and sings as well as takes over on guitar when John is on whistle.
Neil Bleiweis | Percussion
Neil began playing drums at an early age but gave them up many years ago. About 12 years ago, he found his way back to percussion, first playing a djembe and more recently the cajon, an instrument indigenous to Peru. Neil has been active in the local Placerville, California and surrounds music scene for nearly a decade. He is one of the founding members of O’Connell Street.
Joe Childers | Mandolin, Banjo, Vocals
Joe has played with several groups in the area, and has frequently sat in with O'Connell Street over the past few years. Joe has been the band's unofficial booking agent as well. A relatively recent full-time resident of the foothills, he is excited to have found his musical home with such a talented group of musicians.
Greg Upton | Bass
Our newest member, O'Connell Street welcomes stand up bass player, and brew master, Greg. The bass is an important part of the band, it sets the tone, rhythm, and harmonizes the rhythm and melody.
...plus guest musicians including Katharine, Shelley, Maureen, Cameron
...and a special thank you to some of our past band members, Rob, Dave and Alan
