Avi & Celia
Biography

Schooled in tradition but not afraid to blur boundaries, soul-folk duet Avi & Celia are striking matches and catchin’ wind. Simmering with hip bending, blue-tinged melodies, Celia's voice bonds with Avi's colorful guitar creations and compelling harmony. Their sound is delivered with the essence of rock ‘n roll and rooted in the traditions of folk, bluegrass, and blues. Both 23-year-old native New Englanders, Avi & Celia are filled with spirit, vision, and ambition.

Avi Salloway and Celia Woodsmith were brought together while studying at the University of Vermont in 2003 through their shared love for soul singing and old folk tunes. When Celia’s roommate heard Avi’s guitar riffs floating through his fourth floor dorm window, she quickly sought him out to suggest strumming strings with her feisty roommate. Her suggestion was right on track; Avi & Celia immediately hit it off.

In March 2007, Avi & Celia released their debut CD, Off the Floor, described by Performer Magazine as "A bright and energetic combination of folk, country, bluegrass and rock.” Their original album prompted famed New England music venue, Higher Ground, to award them Artist of the Month in March 2007.

Avi & Celia have toured the Eastern United States and California in celebration of their new record. Their energetic and inspired nature has made Avi & Celia a popular act on the summer festival circuit. They have performed at legendary venues and festivals such as Club Passim, The Iron Horse Music Hall, Higher Ground, The Paradise, Champlain Valley Folk Festival, and Discover Jazz Festival. Their poignant performances and insightful sound have also landed them high profile concerts supporting legendary artists such as Taj Mahal, Leon Russell, and Big Brother & The Holding Company.

Cambridge Massachusetts was a staple city of the folk movement of the 1960s. Avi & Celia now reside there and are a strong part of the music scene, reinvigorating the community with essence of yesteryear. While usually performing as a duet, Avi & Celia have been known to team up with other great musicians. The two will be making a new record this February at the esteemed WERS studios in Boston, Ma. The highly anticipated full length album will be released in September 2008.

Open minded and full of enthusiasm, Avi & Celia are writing conscious material bound together with tight harmonies and the spirit of a musical revival.