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Our Story

Finding Inspiration in Every Turn

Turas, which means "journey" in Irish, is a band that offers a captivating blend of traditional and contemporary Irish music with their own original arrangements. Led by the talented musician Bob Drouin, this group of seasoned performers has come together to create magic through their music. Their debut album "Ride On," recorded in September 2023, showcases their and innovative approach to Celtic music and musical prowess. What sets Turas apart from other Celtic music bands is their diverse range of musical backgrounds. Each band member brings a wealth of experience and expertise from their time in various Celtic music groups, resulting in a rich and eclectic sound that is sure to captivate audiences. Turas is on a mission to share their music with the world. Through their website, Turas aims to connect with fans, promote their music, and book more shows to bring their enchanting music to audiences far and wide. Whether you're a longtime fan of Celtic music or simply love discovering new sounds, Turas promises to deliver an unforgettable musical journey. Experience the magic of Turas and let their music transport you to the lush landscapes of Ireland with every note. Join them on their musical journey and immerse yourself in the beauty of traditional and contemporary Celtic music like never before. Check the calendar to see where Turas is playing next, and witness the band live to be swept away by the enchanting melodies of their unique sound.

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Musician Bios

The band is led by Bod Drouin, original member and founder of Pendragon, a popular Celtic music group that recorded and toured throughout the Northeast and was voted 4 times as best Rhode Island Celtic Band by Motif Magazine.  Bob plays fiddle, banjo, bouzouki and vocals. 

Josh Kane also performed with Pendragon and more recently with Roscommon Soles, which is led by Kevin Doyle, 2014 National Heritage Fellow for traditional Irish Step Dance.  Josh is an all-Ireland winner in flute and whistle.  In addition to his prowess on the woodwinds, Josh carries many vocals.

Gary Palmer is a 36-year veteran of the Coast Guard who has been performing Irish, Folk and Sea Music on guitar and vocals for decades.  He is an original member of the Celtic group Full Gael that toured throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts throughout the late 1990’s and 2000’s. 

Matt Cook is an original member and co-founder of Full Gael in 1996 and has been performing with Gary in various groups and venues for over 25 years.  Matt plays uilleann pipes, flute, whistles and vocals.  Matt has recorded several albums with other groups such as Morning Star Consort and the venerable fiddler Sharon Hall and Kindred Spirits.

Mark Bachand carries the percussion section.  He was a member of the historic Kentish Guards Fife & Drum Corps for 20 years on snare drum, bass drum and fife. Mark was also a member of the prestigious Healy Fife Consort, considered to be one of the best fife ensembles in the world. At 40 Mark began playing Irish music on both the flute and the the bodhran. He has performed accompaniment with some highly acclaimed musicians including Sheila Falls, Skip Healy, John Skelton and Jonnie Madden.

Josh Kane

Gary Palmer

Bob Drouin

Mark Bachand

Matt Cook

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Turas band pic
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Jane Pickens
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Bob Drouin
Mark Bachand
Matt with pipes
Jane Pickens
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Bob
Gary
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Josh
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