Crossbow is an expression of a tradition that can be traced back at least 400 years in Ireland and more particularly in Scotland.

In the background of this text is the ceiling of the “HarpRoom” of Crathes Castle, the ancestral seat of the Burnetts in Aberdeenshire. A range of instruments is visible: the clàrsach (harp), lute, cittern (in the mandolin family), viola da gamba (ancestor of the cello), and various others. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the cello was a frequent member of ensembles that performed artful arrangements of dance tunes, songs, and airs for gatherings. The harp and cello would have been a familiar and welcome combination then as they are now in Crossbow.

Crossbow continues this tradition by making instrumental arrangements of traditional tunes from Ireland and Scotland, and by composing and performing new music that is inspired by traditional forms and incorporates newer influences.

Neil and Christina have been playing together as Crossbow since 2010