Cairn to Cairn

Cairn to Cairn is an acoustic trio based in Ann Arbor, Michigan comprised of flutist/vocalist Kelly McDermott, guitarist/singer Terry Farmer, and bassist/percussionist/vocalist Rob Crozier. Originally formed in 2007 as a classical flute and guitar duo, Cairn to Cairn soon expanded to begin their exploration into traditional folk music and beyond.

An amalgamation of three distinct musical personalities, Cairn to Cairn melds classical technique with rock ‘n’ roll, and folk songwriting with elements of improvised freedom. They each bring a high level of artistry and passionate energy to their performances, which are defined by their synergistic and sophisticated approach to arranging traditional and newly composed music. Never satisfied with the status quo, these talented musicians continue to pursue the next cairn.

A native of Michigan, Kelly McDermott began her flute study as a young child, eventually earning three degrees in flute performance as a student  at Temple University in Philadelphia. She worked for more than fourteen years on the east coast as a professional flutist, and as a teacher she nurtured prize-winning students. Kelly's musical journey as a flutist has taken her thoughout the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Europe, performing in chamber ensembles, orchestras, festivals and master classes. She has returned to Michigan and resides in Ann Arbor where she continues to work as a symphonic flutist, is the principal flutist with the Bijou Orchestra, and maintains a flute studio where she is now one of the most sought-after teachers in southeastern Michigan. Kelly has expanded her musical journey as a flutist to include a variety of other instruments but has truly found her musical voice as she sings with Cairn to Cairn.

Terry Farmer has been performing professionally since his teen years when he played in a family band with his father and brothers. Originally from the Detroit area, his musical career has taken him all over the United States, including two years as lead guitarist with surf legends Jan & Dean and three years touring with his own rock and roll band, The Bead Band. After several years spent living in Los Angeles, in the 90’s Terry began the study of classical guitar, earning a Bachelors Degree in guitar performance at the University of Denver and pursuing further study at the Cleveland Institute of Music.

In 2001 and 2003, Terry was honored as New Folk Finalist at the Kerrville Folk Festival in Texas and has subsequently received recognition at several additional festivals as a composer. He continues to perform at folk festivals as well as club and concert venues around the country. Terry brings to Cairn to Cairn his broad range of musical experience, his elegant guitar playing and beautiful voice, and his gift for songwriting.

Rob Crozier is a multi-instrumentalist residing in Ann Arbor and is in demand as a bassist throughout the southeastern Michigan area. A master of many musical styles he fearlessly explores the vanguard and traditional alike. His passion for improvisation has inspired him to create the radio series, “Music Is Freedom” which is performed live on University of Michigan radio station WCBN. Rob continues to study privately both classical and jazz technique and is completing a degree in jazz studies for double bass at the U of M as a student of Robert Hurst. Rob's “spot on” sense of pitch, musicality and strong rhythmic integrity provide the essential foundation for Cairn to Cairn.