Gan Ainm

Gan Ainm, taking their name from the Gaelic for "no name", are a Celtic band based in Singapore.

Started by Irishman Paul Hannon and Englishman Bary Woolhead in 2001 they initially started life as an Irish traditional band. Over the years they gradually added a few contemporary folk numbers to their repertoire and, in 2005, the addition of Scotsman Alexander Gow led them to broaden their music to include Scots tradition, becoming Singapore's only Celtic band. Being a keen songwriter and tunesmith Alexanders presence has also led to the addition of original material to the bands repertoire.

Members over the years have included musicians from Ireland, England, Scotland, Wales, Belgium, Singapore, China and The Faroe Islands. Their current (November 2007) lineup consists of: Paul Hannon (lead and backing vocals; bodhran); Barry Woolhead (guitar; backing vocals); Alexander Gow (electric and acoustic mandola; lead and backing vocals; occasional fiddle and guitar); Nev Smith (tin whistles; occasional saxophone)

Recent members include: Greta Scavbo (fiddle; occasional vocals), 2005-'06; Emer (lead and backing vocals), 2006; Karen (fiddle; lead and backing vocals), 2007.

Gan Ainm have ben regular performers at the Singapore Cricket Club Rugby 7's Tournament for the last 4 years. They have also performed amongst an international lineup at the 2007 Mosaic Festival at the Esplanade in Singapore 1 and will be an integral part of this years Touch of Tartan festival at Clarke Quay as wel as the Tartan Fringe at The Prince of Wales in Little India.