Jon MacAulay. Photo: courtesy

Townshipper and musician Jon MacAulay talks roots, career, and upcoming wedding

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Jon MacAulay, a proud Townshipper and accomplished musician, recently sat down for an interview Aug. 3 to discuss his journey, musical career, and upcoming wedding. Growing up in Scotstown, MacAulay has always been deeply connected to the Eastern Townships, and his story is a testament to the area’s rich cultural heritage.

MacAulay’s upbringing in Scotstown, a small town with a population of about 400 people, played a significant role in shaping his early interests and passions. “I was big into the outdoors over there,” he shared. “I did a lot of fishing and hunting and worked on many farms.” His early introduction to music came through piano lessons, which he started in grade one.

Despite his early start with the piano, MacAulay’s true passion for music blossomed when he picked up the guitar. “I was playing piano, and then I was kind of over it. I never really got into the classical thing,” he explained. “Some buddies of mine got into guitar, and I just kind of followed suit and kept playing. I think I’m probably the only one that’s still playing.”

His transition from piano to guitar marked the beginning of a significant chapter in his musical career. He eventually pursued formal education in music, studying at Bishop’s University and Champlain College. “I studied Creative Arts at Champlain and did a jazz guitar audition,” he recalled. He studied under renowned local musicians Mike Gauthier and John Geary and later took master’s level courses, further honing his skills.

MacAulay’s career as a professional musician spanned a decade, during which he performed extensively until the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the music industry. “I did about 10 years as a fully professional musician. That was my main source of income,” he noted. However, the pandemic forced him to adapt, leading him to frame houses while continuing to play music part-time.

Currently residing in Calgary, Alberta, MacAulay has immersed himself in the local music scene. He has performed at various venues, including the King Eddy, and the Blues Can, a famous blues bar. Despite the challenges, he has found success in Calgary, where he is a sought-after musician.

Reflecting on the differences between the music scenes in the Eastern Townships and Calgary, MacAulay noted, “The calibre of musicians, it’s a little harder to find the calibre that we’ve got here out there.” He expressed initial apprehension about moving to a larger city but found that he was well-received and in demand. However, he acknowledged that government support for music is less robust in Alberta, leading to the closure of several venues.

MacAulay is set to marry local Allie Lapp, the daughter of his late friend and mentor, David Lapp. The couple has been together for five years and will be tying the knot at a local venue. “We’ve been together about five years, and the rest is kind of history,” he said.

MacAulay has released several recordings over the years, including his first EP, “Solid Ground,” in 2015, and a full album, “What I’m Here For,” in 2020. He also released a poignant song, “My Father’s Hands,” in 2021, following the passing of his father. “After this wedding, I’m going to be looking into getting some recordings organized,” he revealed, hinting at new music on the horizon.

Despite his busy personal life, MacAulay continues to perform and has several upcoming shows in the Eastern Townships. “I’ve got a few things going on. I’m at the Lion on Friday night and then the Cookshire Fair for two days,” he shared. He also hinted at potential shows in Montreal and other locations on his way back to Alberta to help offset travel costs. These performances offer a mix of covers and originals, often featuring MacAulay solo, though occasionally joined by other musicians.

To find out more about MacAulay and follow what he is up to, you can follow him on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jmacaulay.music/

This article was modified from its original version to correct information about the King Eddy.