Steeplechase
Steeplechase came about in the tried and true manner of Irish music bands throughout the centuries, which is to say, at the session. It became clear that these horses could pull in the same direction, and thus a band was born. Three of the four members have connections to Maine, but they all managed to find their way to the northwest corner of the United States. Hanz Araki (flutes, vocals), Zach Bauman (bouzouki), Sam Vogt (guitar, whistle), and David Lofgren (bodhrán) each have long histories in folk music; and while their paths to taking up traditional music may vary wildly, their passion for, and love of this art form is unquestionably shared.
Traditional Music of, but not limited to, Ireland and Scotland
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Steeplechase is…
Hanz Araki
flute whistle vocals
Raised in Seattle, WA in a Japanese and Irish household, Hanz attained the highest possible status as a shakuhachi (bamboo flute) player; a tradition dating back 200 years in his family. His commitment to this legacy did not preclude musical exploration, and upon his discovery of Irish music, a bond was formed giving rise to a 30-year, award-winning career as an Irish flautist and singer. over the years, Hanz has returned to the deep wells of Tokyo, Japan and Dingle, Co. Kerry, Ireland, for inspiration, never losing sight of the foundations of his musical DNA.
Zach Bauman
bouzouki vocals
Raised in the wilds of China (Maine), Zach Bauman is an exemplary player; a nexus of discipline and unbridled joy, with an uncanny ability to switch between accompaniment and melody, his dynamism unwavering. His musical journey was fueled by an innate aptitude for stringed instruments. His study of the lute gave way to mandolin and bouzouki, allowing him to tap into his New England roots and channel the rich history of traditional music that imbues the bedrock of the region.
David Lofgren
bodhrÁn vocals
Hailing from the great state of Maine, David Lofgren is not only an elite bodhrán player, but a highly sought-after drummer across multiple genres. It is this openness and curiosity that has forged his approach to percussion, always layering a driving yet nuanced rhythmic structure. David is widely recognized as the tallest bodhrán player in the Pacific Northwest, and possibly beyond; a distinction he has not allowed to get in the way of his growth as a musician.
Sam Vogt
guitar whistles vocals
As a child, Portland, OR native Sam Vogt made himself a penny whistle; this would prove the beginning of a lifelong obsession with Irish music. After studying mandolin for several years, Sam turned his focus to the guitar; he developed a lyrical style—both assertive and delicate—informed by years of melody-playing. His appreciation and command of tunes shapes his choices in accompaniment, creating space for every musical element to shine.
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Booking & Inquiry
Steeplechase is available for public concerts and private events. Please complete the form to inquire and we’ll be in touch shortly.