Roy-James Brings the Sounds of Québec to Bagaduce Music’s September House Party

Wednesday, September 9 | Bagaduce Music, Blue Hill
6 p.m. — Chai, Soup & Garden Explorations | 7 p.m. — Concert

Bagaduce Music’s 2nd Wednesday HOUSE PARTY returns September 9 with Roy-James, a dynamic Montreal duo weaving together the musical traditions of Québec, Balfolk, and New England in an intimate evening of song and strings.

Featuring François-Félix Roy on guitar and vocals and McKinley James on cello, Roy-James breathes new life into traditional music with finely crafted arrangements, expressive playing, and a warm musical chemistry. Their repertoire moves effortlessly from spirited call-and-response songs and Québec fiddle tunes to haunting ballads and melodies drawn from traditions on both sides of the Atlantic.

Singer and guitarist François-Félix Roy is known for his fresh, intimate interpretations of Québec’s traditional repertoire, bringing the richness of its melodies and storytelling to contemporary audiences. His debut solo album, Peines perdues (2023), was produced by Éric Beaudry of De Temps Antan and La Bottine Souriante. His music has taken him to acclaimed stages throughout North America and Europe, including the National Theatre of Genoa in Italy.

McKinley James is a Montreal-based cellist whose musical life spans classical, traditional, and dance music. A founding member of the award-winning band Night Tree, she has toured internationally throughout Europe and China and performed and taught at festivals and workshops across North America, including Fiddle Hell, Maine Fiddle Camp, and Pinewoods. She is also a member of the Balfolk trio Malvenn, exploring the rich possibilities of traditional European dance music.

The HOUSE PARTY begins at 6 p.m. with soup and chai from Conscious Kitchen and guided explorations with Native Gardens of Blue Hill—an invitation to wander, gather, eat, and connect before settling in for music. At 7 p.m., Roy-James takes the stage for a vibrant evening of songs, stories, and tunes rooted in tradition and brought vividly into the present.

Bagaduce Music
49 South Street, Blue Hill, Maine

Bagaduce Music is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering musical experiences throughout Maine's coastline.