Johnny Collins would be a fine as would many. The 'Brits & Irish' thing was my own bad taste not Mr. Speights'. Absolutely. I make no appology, feeling any Mudcatter is entitled to as much bad taste as s/he can get away with. Actually, the setting in Japan is an American seaport and USian singers seemed suitable. Since Mudcat & r.m.f are international I asked if there would be any problem hiring a Brit or Irish or Dutch person as I am aware that a few of them have some singing talent, too. It was allowed that that would work. Mr Speights is aware that may of the chanteys are international and that sailors migrated.

As to guitar/banjo, as I understand it (and I may be wrong) it's a preference, not a requirement. He is aware that they are not the purest way to represent chanteys but wotthehell. The goal is entertaining the guests but there is a strong interest in education & interaction as well. It's not up to me to lay this out, I'm just passing on an opportunity.

I did ask about concertina. My impression is that the current group is heavy on them and some change is indicated for now. But it really depends on who & how many apply for the job - and note that this is an ongoing gig - someone new every 6 months. I'd think broadly when defining 'chantey' - mostly them things but sea songs in general, too.