The Cottars

The Cottars emerged in 2000 as a central force in the modern revitalization of Cape Breton's Celtic tradition. Originally composed of two sets of siblings (the MacGillivrays and the MacKenzies), the group gained international attention for their technical proficiency at a young age, eventually touring with icons like The Chieftains.

Their sound identity is built on the 'Cape Breton Style,' which emphasizes a driving, rhythmic approach to the fiddle and a unique piano accompaniment style that functions as a percussion instrument. Throughout their career arc, they transitioned from child prodigies to mature arrangers, surviving a significant lineup change in 2006 before reuniting the MacGillivray core for later releases. Critically, they are lauded for maintaining the integrity of Gaelic and Maritime traditions without succumbing to the 'Celtic Pop' trends of the early 2000s. They occupy a cultural space similar to The Rankin Family or Natalie MacMaster, serving as ambassadors for East Coast Canadian folk music to a global audience.