Bill Dempsey began his career as a trombonist studying classical music and jazz. During the early 60's he became interested in folk music. At one point he was playing trombone in a small orchestra and working weekends in a jazz band. After finishing work he would rush off to sing and play at a local coffeehouse. It soon became clear that singing and playing guitar was what he wanted to do. Over the years Bill has continued to learn new instruments and new kinds of music while staying close to the folk and traditional music he loves.
Some know Bill as the Shanty man on the brig Pilgrim in Dana Point California. Bill books the Tall Ships Festival at the Ocean Institute there. Others recall him as part of the groups 'Open All Night' or 'Monday Night Waltz'. Seniors know him as 'Banjo Bill'. Students know him as Mr. Dempsey the music teacher and los ninos call him Maestro.

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Audio Samples
from Bills' CD
"I hear Music"




June 28 - 7 pm Senior Summer School
San Diego State University
July 10 - 6:30 pm Grand Edventures
San Diego State University
July 16 - 11am (ten.) Strolling Banjo Bill
Irvine Ca.
Aug 8-10 Channel Islands Tall Ships Festival
Oxnard, Ca
Aug.22 Festival of Sail, San Diego, Ca
Shows @ Noon & 2pm
Aug. 28 Senior Summer School, 
Island Palms, San Diego @ 6:30 pm

Sept. 6 & 7 - Toshiba Tall Ships Festival, Dana Point, Ca.
 (live sea music 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. each day)
 Oct. 18 & 19 - Living History Event, Mt Baldy Visitors Center (details/schedule to follow)

     Other Audio Samples          

 

NEW RELEASE

SHANTY MAN
Audio Samples...

Bill Dempsey is a singer who accompanies himself on guitar/5 string banjo/dulcimer/harmonica/trombone/pocket trumpet/cajon/etc. Originally a trombonist he has expanded his array of instruments to the point where he is truly a ONE MAN BAND! Bill does shows for children, seniors, families, festivals (large & small, libraries, schools, wedding ceremonies, parties (large & small). He has performed indoors, outdoors, on tall ships, overlooking the ocean, around a campfire, out in the woods, in fancy hotels and casinos, in campgrounds, on a hay wagon, etc. Bill Dempsey was hired to perform for the President of the United States, appeared on NPR show hosted by Judy Collins, appeared on the Charles Kuralt show, appeared on the Gong Show (did NOT get gonged)! Will be appearing soon in???

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