Chas Guay: Artist Profile

Over the past spring and summer singer/songwriter and guitarist Chas Guay has been a vital part of Radical Connections programming. Whether it was performing in person in the Saint Vincent Hospital Atrium, facilitating music workshops for the residents of Elisabeth Bruyere with fellow artist Patricia Reynolds, or performing in the May HIP Live Stream, Chas has been right where we needed him. As both a consummate professional musician and individual with a background in support work in both geriatric and psychiatric care, he both offers an extensive repertoire and knows how to connect with his audience. At his SVH concert more than one audience member rolled up to the stage to request performances at another location. 

Chas states, “Music has served me well throughout my life and I enjoy sharing the value of harmony, melody, and rhythm.  My experience in musical theatre has revealed how animation and a good smile goes hand-in-hand with enriching any experience. I have seen music to be a great connector.”

Chas is described as a groove oriented musician who leans toward the chill side, framing songs with intimacy and a mature poetic charm. He is a recipient of the East Coast Music Award for Musical Achievement. His performances feature selected folk and sixties classics mixed with some originals. He has worked as a recording artist and in musical theatre for twenty-five years. Songwriting is his main focus and he continues to perform in the Ottawa area as a singer/songwriter under the guise of Drifting Bird. Check out a clip of Chas Guay’s HIP Live Stream on Radical Connections’ YouTube page or purchase a ticket to see the whole recording. As a studio audience member for this performance I highly recommend it!