Mary Beth Carty of Antigonish paints a broad musical canvas with a palette of roots-music motifs, fusing traditional song, instrumental tunes, and songwriting. An accordion player and DADGAD guitarist, she also wields a collection of pocket-sized instruments. Mary Beth was one of 21 Atlantic Canadian artists commissioned to write a song for CBC Radio’s The Story and The Song 2021. Her latest release, Mo Mhàthair, a single in Scottish Gaelic, is a re-imagining of a song written in the 1920’s.

Mary Beth has had the opportunity to perform in North America, Europe, and Africa. Her debut solo album, 2017’s Les biens-nommés, earned nominations at the Nova Scotia Music Awards and the ECMA’s. As a member of the duo Bette & Wallet, Mary Beth was nominated Traditional Singer of the Year at the 2009 Canadian Folk Music Awards for their album Voici. Her voice has been described as passionate and mesmerizing.

 

In addition to being a unique and captivating solo artist, Mary Beth is in demand as a guitar accompanist for fiddlers and has performed with many of the best from Cape Breton Island and mainland Nova Scotia. She is known for her distinct, rhythmic style and keen ear. In 2020-2021 Mary Beth did a five month ‘artist residency’ at The Gaelic College, where she taught online classes in step dance, set dance, & guitar accompaniment, and participated in their Wednesday Night Ceilidhs. 

Keep an eye out for Mary Beth’s upcoming sophomore album!