FOLK ROOTS: Sean Dagher is a multi-instrumentalist and folk singer who performs folk songs from throughout the world that are associated with sailing. Everyone is free to join in and chant. (Photo supplied)
Montreal-based folk singer and musician Sean Dagher plays a variety of instruments, such as the Irish bouzouki, mandolin, banjo, harp, oud, and shruti box, and performs a wide range of folk melodies, including Celtic, French, medieval, and Middle Eastern tunes.
He is most recognized, however, as a maestro of the sea shanty, a somewhat unique musical subgenre. The sea shanty, indeed.
Dagher’s work on the Assassin’s Creed video game franchise initially brought him international recognition. Approximately 70 million people have streamed his performances of sea shanties and other gaming music. His Shanty of the Week video series has a devoted global following and receives thousands of views every week.
On Saturday, March 1, Dagher will play at 3 p.m. at the Gia Maione Prima Foundation Studio Theatre located in Building 12 on the Ocean County College campus in Toms River. Families will love the show, which is a part of the Grunin Center for the Performing Arts Family Series.
Adult tickets cost $24, but children under 13 only cost $18. You can buy them at GruninCenter.org.
According to a Grunin Center announcement, Sean will lead the audience on a voyage across the sea with work songs and a few ballads with a maritime theme, all while playing Irish bouzouki.
The audience, including children, will then become involved.
Everyone will come together for a communal singing and yelling experience as audiences are asked to sing the crew’s replies to some of the most well-known songs in the genre! No prior experience singing in a shanty is required. Additionally, poor vocalists are acceptable—even required!
Heave-away!R.M.
