From festivals to pubs, a trio of talented musicians is captivating audiences with their unique blend of traditional Irish music and modern influences. Poor Man's Gambit, which includes Corey Purcell, Deirdre Lockman and Joseph Carmichael, has become a staple in the local Irish music scene, known for its lively performances and rich musical heritage.

As part of their summer tour, the group is set to perform at the Chestnut Hill Community Association's Pastorius Park Concert Series at 7:30 p.m. on July 10, a beloved community tradition sponsored by Temple Health – Chestnut Hill Hospital that features diverse musical acts throughout the summer. This week’s performance promises to be a highlight of the series, offering traditional Irish melodies in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Founded in 2015, Poor Man's Gambit quickly gained recognition for expressive Celtic music. Purcell, one of the group's two multi-instrumentalists and vocalists, brings a dynamic energy to the stage with his proficiency in button accordion, cittern and bodhran. His vibrant step dancing transports audiences to the rolling hills of Ireland, where the tradition of music and dance is deeply rooted.

"We all bring something different to the table in terms of artistic background and influences, stemming back to who we listened to the most as kids,” Purcell said. “I was mostly listening to Danu and Solas, while Deirdre was listening to Altan and Deanta, and Joseph had Lunasa and Flook on repeat. There are loads of others that we all had on heavy rotation on our playlists like John Doyle, Old Blind Dogs, Dervish, and even some non-Irish bands like Kasir (Denmark) and Fling (Netherlands). We are constantly being influenced by new music we discover (from all genres), and even old music that we re-discover.”

Lockman, the fiddler of the group, was born into a musical family and grew up performing in her family band. She soon began competing in fiddle competitions and holds several regional fiddle titles. Lockman's vocals add layers of authenticity and emotion to the band's repertoire, which ranges from haunting ballads to toe-tapping jigs and reels.

Carmichael, originally from Dallas, Texas, brings an innovative and more jazzy sound to the group. He switches between guitar, flute, whistle and vocals during performances, drawing from Celtic and folk traditions. Carmichael is a well-known and sought-after accompanist in the traditional music scene who adds depth with his unique approach.

Poor Man's Gambit is known for their engaging live performances. Their shows are a blend of music, storytelling and dance, creating an immersive experience for audiences. The band's chemistry on stage is palpable, and their passion for their craft is evident in every note they play. With their talent, charisma and unwavering commitment, they have earned their reputation as one of the leading Celtic bands in the region.

The performance will include two 45-minute sets, with a 15-minute intermission in between. Chairs are available for rental, but bringing your own blanket or folding chair is strongly encouraged. 

To learn more about this summer's lineup and to get directions to Pastorius Park via SEPTA, visit chestnuthill.org.