commitment and bloodline.
By the age of six, Troy was already impressing audiences with his step
dancing skills. By 13 he was teaching piano at the renowned Gaelic College of Celtic Arts and Crafts in St. Anne's, Cape Breton.
He has completed grade seven of the Toronto Conservatory of Music for classical piano, has spent four years in a stringed orchestra and has earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in music from St. Francis Xavier University.
Troy's two recordings, Boomerang (2003) and Musical Ties (2001) both received East Coast Music
Award nominations as well as Music Industry Association of Nova Scotia nominations.
Musical Ties is a blend of contemporary and original compositions with two hundred year old melodies played on the piano and fiddle. A collection of uplifting Strathspeys, Jigs and Reels are complimented by the graceful presence of two beautiful Gaelic airs.
Troy is joined on the recording by his parents and sisters as well as other noteworthy performers such as John Allan Cameron, Gordie Sampson, Dave MacIsaac and Tracey Dares.
Boomerang is a demonstration of the piano and fiddle played in the purist traditional stylings. It is a roots-centred approach with the power to capture any audience.Troy is joined on the album by Dave MacIsaac, Dave Gunning, Cheryl Smith and Paul Mills. The album was engineered by Paul Mills who is known for his work with the CBC, Stan Rogers, Rita MacNeil and Sharon, Lois & Bram. Troy's bloodline is equally as impressive. The Lanark MacGillivrays and MacDonalds have been proprietors of the Gaelic tradition in North Eastern Nova Scotia for generations. Troy's grandfather, Hugh A. MacDonald, is a member of the Nova Scotia Country Hall of Fame - an honour bestowed for his contribution to the Gaelic culture of Nova Scotia. Troy's parents, Tony and Janice, are talented musicians who sometimes make stage and studio appearances with their son. His sister, Kendra, is a two time East Coast Music Award winning Celtic fiddler. And, his sister Sabra, is an accomplished dancer and percussionist.
Whether playing piano or fiddle, or showcasing his step dancing capabilities, Troy MacGillivray certainly displays intense commitment to the Celtic heritage he inherited from his Highland ancestors.