Gaelynn Lea

Gaelynn Lea won NPR Music’s Tiny Desk Contest in 2016, and not long after she hit the road with her husband Paul. So far she has toured in 45 states and 9 countries, captivating audiences around the world with her unique mix of haunting original songs and traditional fiddle tunes. Gaelynn Lea has appeared in several major festivals over the years, including SXSW, Winnipeg Folk Festival, and Reykjavik Arts Festival. She has also opened for well-known bands such as Wilco, The Decemberists, LOW, The Jayhawks, and the industrial rock supergroup Pigface.

In addition to performing and recording, Gaelynn also does speaking engagements about Disability Rights, finding inner freedom, and accessibility in the arts. She uses her music as a platform to advocate for disabled people and to promote positive social change. In recent years, she has shared her perspective on PBS NewsHour, The Moth Radio Hour, The Science of Happiness Podcast, and through two widely-viewed TEDx Talks. Gaelynn Lea is currently working on a memoir about her touring adventures and disability advocacy that she plans to release in 2022.

Due to the Coronavirus, Gaelynn Lea is unable to tour for the foreseeable future. Instead, she is holding virtual concerts on YouTube every Sunday afternoon until she can get back on the road. These shows feature her original songs, improvisational live-looped violin & a different guest artist each week! Captions are provided for Deaf and hard of hearing audience members. Any tips you’re able to send Gaelynn’s way are very much appreciated… But ONLY if you are able to afford it! Please make sure you’re taking care of yourself, your family & your community first and foremost. If you’d like to support Gaelynn’s work on a monthly basis, consider joining her Patreon Team. Sending you light & love in these unusual times!