Four Time 2009 Music Newfoundland and Labrador award winners and East Coast Music Award nominees 2010; The Once is a trio of young folk musicians, building on the traditions of their native province.

After their debut release in August of 2009 the demand for the indie folk group grew quickly. The career highlights they have already amassed are impressive. Played the legendary Lunenburg Folk Festival (Where an anonymous patron left a cheque for $5,000 for their recording) and sight unseen they were booked for the National Radio CBC program The Vinyl Café. In addition indie-wave songstress Amelia Curran (Six Shooter Records/Warner), approached them with an original song she wanted The Once to record and to perform with her at her own CD Release early Fall of 2009. 2010 will see them at The Goderich Celtic Roots Festival, in Memphis for Folk Alliance and participating in JUNO festivities in St. John's.

Not only talented musicians but thespians as well, Andrew Dale, Geraldine Hollett and Phil Churchill have significant acting CVs to their credit. Phil is also known for his sketch comedy skills with the popular troupe "The Dance Party of Newfoundland". The troupe was a hit at last year's Chicago sketch festival, and became an overnight success in Toronto, where they won "best of the fest" at the legendary Second City Sketch Festival. Geraldine and Andrew are also very active in Newfoundland's film and theatre industry, having acted onstage in numerous theatrical productions, and several film and TV projects.

The theatrical background of the members, combined with their musical talent, creates a uniquely potent and intimate performance. Traditional music thrives on its ability to connect the past to new audiences, and the members have the ability to become the dramatic characters they sing of, as with Geraldine's traditional ballad "Marguerite". Minutes later, they are using their improv skills to great effect with elaborate and witty stage banter. When you add thoughtful arrangements and Geraldine's heart-breaking voice, you realize just how entertaining The Once really are.

CBC has already recorded a National radio Christmas Concert with them in 2008 and their inventive harmonies and subtle yet haunting folk sound sold out their first batch of their debut CD in six short weeks. Now working with Garrison Hill Entertainment Ltd. (principal Bob Hallett of Great Big Sea/WEA Music), they are currently booking national tour dates for 2010, as well as a series of on going collaborations with notable acts in the roots music world.