Entertainment
Max Armstrong
Max Armstrong is an electric/acoustic fiddle player who has been perfecting and performing his art for the last 21 years. Born and raised in Bozeman MT, Max moved to the Flathead Valley in 2017 where he finished his associate degree in music at Flathead Valley Community College. Max was voted into the Top 10 finalists of Flathead's Got Talent as a solo artist, and was also a recent winner of the competition in 2023 playing with his most current band "Borderline Lucid." Max plays a variety of Celtic music as well as some modern violin tunes that make for an extremely engaging, and energetic performance. Max is also a part of many other local bands across Montana and a sub-fiddle player for the Celtic Rock band "Celtica Nova." Max loves playing all different kinds of genres on the violin and enjoys bringing joy to others through his music.
Facebook: Max Armstrong Music
Instagram: maxbarmstrong
Celtic Collective
Get ready to be swept away on a musical adventure with the Celtic Collective of Bozeman—a dynamic melting pot where traditions collide and creativity reigns! Melding the soulful Gaelic cultures of Ireland and Scotland with stirring Iberian flair and a dash of Nordic mystique, this ensemble transforms Bozeman and the Gallatin Valley into an irresistible stage of live melodies and infectious jigs.
Born from a chance meeting of music enthusiasts one fateful night at a local Bozeman pub, the Collective is more than just a band—it’s a celebration of heritage and heart, a community united by the magic of traditional tunes. Each member adds a unique brushstroke to the canvas of sound, creating a cultural mosaic that dazzles and delights.
Leticia, our brilliant fiddler, infuses every performance with the vibrant spirit of her Madrileña roots, her songbird voice intertwining with every lyrical melody to captivate all who listen. Don, master of the upright bass, casts a spell with each drawn bow, leaving audiences enchanted, especially as his final notes of “Leaving Friday Harbour” linger in the air. Sue navigates a musical journey that traces Celtic routes from Ireland, through the heartlands of Appalachia, and onto Montana, her banjos—be they four or five-string—singing stories of old. Kneal, the wizard of finger-picking on his acoustic steel-string guitar, channels the passion of Scottish ballads into every rhythmic strum, ensuring the pulse of history beats on. Amanda, with her seasoned command of the flute and Irish whistles, elevates each tune into a soaring, melodious narrative, while Andrew, our resident Norwegian percussionist, taps into his Viking ancestry, bringing thunderous beats that echo through the Collective’s soundscape. And then there’s Michele, whose bodhrán echoes the rugged rhythms of Ireland’s northern coasts, grounding our musical expedition with authentic heritage. So join us for an unforgettable day where community, culture, and tradition collide. The Celtic Collective of Bozeman isn’t just about music—it’s about the joy of sharing stories through song, where every reel invites you to step into a world where history dances with the present. Let the magic of the melody carry you away!
And while you're reveling in the reel, imagine the tales behind each tune, the late-night jam sessions, and the heart-to-heart exchanges that make every performance a vibrant chapter in the saga of Celtic celebration.
celticcollectivebozeman.org/
Tiernan Irish Dancers
We are an Irish dance troupe in Helena and Butte. As a sister school of the Trinity Irish Dancers in Chicago, Illinois, we wear their colors of red, black, and white. Our allowable age range for students in Helena is 3 through 20, but we do not offer instruction meant for adult-level dancers. We and our dancers collectively honor the many and varied heritages of our individual students.
Our dancers may choose to compete throughout the region, but our first love is entertaining those in our hometowns. We put on dozens of shows throughout the year at schools, festivals, assisted living facilities, and many other locations.
Our dancers may choose to compete throughout the region, but our first love is entertaining those in our hometowns. We put on dozens of shows throughout the year at schools, festivals, assisted living facilities, and many other locations.
Pipes and Drums of the Black Devils
The Pipes and Drums of the Black Devils, Inc. is a nonprofit bagpipe and drum band based in Helena, Montana. The band plays in parades, festivals and other events throughout Montana. The Pipes and Drums of the Black Devils mission is to serve our greater community by preserving and promoting Scottish and Irish culture and music for the public benefit. We strive to achieve this goal through excellence in musical performance and active engagement in our community by providing training and educational opportunities. The name
“Pipes and Drums of the Black Devils” alludes to the First Special Service Force, an elite infantry unit of World War II, otherwise known as the Black Devils. The First Special Service was formed in Helena, MT and was composed of both US and Canadian soldiers. The Pipes and Drums of the Black Devils are proud to serve as the official band of the First Special Service Force Association.
“Pipes and Drums of the Black Devils” alludes to the First Special Service Force, an elite infantry unit of World War II, otherwise known as the Black Devils. The First Special Service was formed in Helena, MT and was composed of both US and Canadian soldiers. The Pipes and Drums of the Black Devils are proud to serve as the official band of the First Special Service Force Association.
Scariff School of Irish Dance
For over 20 years, Scariff School of Irish Dance has been the premier destination for Irish dance training, inspiring dancers in Utah, Nevada, and Montana to step up, shine, and achieve their dreams. Whether you’re taking your first jig or training for the World Championships, our award-winning instructors are here to guide, challenge, and celebrate every step of your journey. At Scariff, we blend tradition, passion, and elite-level coaching to help every dancer build confidence, discipline, and lifelong friendships—all while experiencing the thrill of Irish dance in a supportive and exciting community.
Meet the Owner and Premier Dance Instructor: Stephen Scariff, a Galway native, discovered his love for Irish dance at a young age under the guidance of Mairead O’Flaherty, one of Ireland’s most distinguished teachers. His talent and dedication led him to multiple regional, national, and international titles, including top 3 placements at the All Ireland and World Championships. By the age of 15, Stephen achieved what most dancers only dream of—he became the youngest dancer ever hired for Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance. As the lead performer in the role of the “Good Lord,” he spent four years captivating audiences worldwide with his skill, energy, and charisma. Under his leadership, Scariff dancers have won numerous regional and national titles, placing in the top five at the North American, All Ireland, All Scotland, Great Britain, and World Championships. His school has also produced dancers who have gone on to perform in world-renowned productions like Lord of the Dance and Riverdance.
Meet the Owner and Premier Dance Instructor: Stephen Scariff, a Galway native, discovered his love for Irish dance at a young age under the guidance of Mairead O’Flaherty, one of Ireland’s most distinguished teachers. His talent and dedication led him to multiple regional, national, and international titles, including top 3 placements at the All Ireland and World Championships. By the age of 15, Stephen achieved what most dancers only dream of—he became the youngest dancer ever hired for Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance. As the lead performer in the role of the “Good Lord,” he spent four years captivating audiences worldwide with his skill, energy, and charisma. Under his leadership, Scariff dancers have won numerous regional and national titles, placing in the top five at the North American, All Ireland, All Scotland, Great Britain, and World Championships. His school has also produced dancers who have gone on to perform in world-renowned productions like Lord of the Dance and Riverdance.
Herding Dog Demonstration
by Desiree Moffett
Desiree Moffett is a passionate Border Collie handler who began her journey in January 2011 with her first dog, Wild Pecosbill, to assist with managing her parents' sheep and goats. Captivated by Pecos's exceptional skills, Desiree soon expanded her team with Bunny, and the bond between them grew from there.
Over the years, Desiree's Border Collies have become an integral part of her daily life, assisting with everything from moving sheep to pasture at dawn to bringing them back in the evenings. Whether it’s spring, summer, or fall, her dogs are by her side, ensuring the smooth management of her flock.
Beyond everyday tasks, Desiree's dogs play a crucial role in breeding season, expertly sorting ewes from lambs, organizing breeding groups, and even helping separate rams into their designated groups. After the season wraps up, they help sort the rams from the ewes and gather them into a single group. And when temperatures plunge into the single digits or below zero, Desiree can always count on her dogs to help get the flock moving, ensuring the goats and sheep stay warm and healthy through the cold nights.
Desiree’s deep connection with her Border Collies goes beyond work—it’s a lifestyle built on trust, skill, and dedication.
I compete in ASCA, NCA, MSSA, AHBA, and AKC.
Over the years, Desiree's Border Collies have become an integral part of her daily life, assisting with everything from moving sheep to pasture at dawn to bringing them back in the evenings. Whether it’s spring, summer, or fall, her dogs are by her side, ensuring the smooth management of her flock.
Beyond everyday tasks, Desiree's dogs play a crucial role in breeding season, expertly sorting ewes from lambs, organizing breeding groups, and even helping separate rams into their designated groups. After the season wraps up, they help sort the rams from the ewes and gather them into a single group. And when temperatures plunge into the single digits or below zero, Desiree can always count on her dogs to help get the flock moving, ensuring the goats and sheep stay warm and healthy through the cold nights.
Desiree’s deep connection with her Border Collies goes beyond work—it’s a lifestyle built on trust, skill, and dedication.
I compete in ASCA, NCA, MSSA, AHBA, and AKC.
Thomas Meagher Hurling Club
Founded in 2015, the Thomas Meagher Hurling Club brings the fast-paced, ancient Irish sport of hurling to the heart of western Montana. Based in Missoula, the club welcomes new players of all skill levels and proudly shares Irish athletic culture with the community. You’ll find them competing across the Northwest—and occasionally sharing a pint afterward.
Their motto? “Over the bar, under the table.”