In my opinion, the Chieftains are masters of beautiful and effective accompaniment. I have enjoyed many of the groups performances because of the arrangements and the manner in which the band colored the music and supported the lead instrument or singer.

I consider myself very fortunate to witness a performance by Steve Schneider and Paul Orts in which the lead instrument, hammered dulcimer, and the guitar were joined as it there was one instrument and that was a beautiful and amazing performance.

As far as I am concerned, the music is the reason a band comes together. I want to hear a melody. What is really enjoyable is when everyone in the band comes together. I have heard performances that could have been wonderful destroyed by one member of the ensemble (most often bass or drums)way out of balance. I have also greatly appreciated performances when no one member of the ensemble was particularly exceptional but everyone worked so well together to make the music enjoyable.