Roughly Hewn started out as a roughly put together band for a Habitat for Humanity benefit.  They have since grown into a polished Irish and Folk band.   Along the way, as with all groups, some of the members have come and gone.   However, Gordon and Seán were both there from the start.  They all enjoy playing for private parties, benefits and Ceílís.   The versatility of the band is extensive.  All of the members play at least two to three different instruments and the various combinations always lend a unique sound to each tune.  Over the years their sound has evolved into the rich harmonic tunes, both vocal and instrumental, which you hear today.

Gordon Hall

Violin, Viola, Mandolin, Bouzouki, Guitar

Gordon started playing the violin at age 10.  After high school he played in some rock and roll bands while continuing his education in music at the University of Portland and Marylhurst.  He remembers listening to a group that had a Celtic bent and found he was really attracted to the energy of the Irish style.  He pursued Irish music on his own, and also briefly studied with Kevin Burke.  He attributes Kevin Burke’s instruction and style as one of the significant influences in his Irish ‘upbringing’.  Gordon has performed with numerous local groups, individuals and symphonies.  He currently teaches private violin/fiddle and mandolin lessons.

Seán Boyle

Guitar, String Bass, Vocals

The Banjo first lured Seán, at age 12, to bluegrass and Gospel tunes.  Later it was discovered he would be more useful as a bass player.  The bluegrass started sounding more and more like rock and roll, so Seán joined a band which eventually became "Subterranean Cafè".  He and Gordon were neighbors when they met over 20 years ago.  A few years later, they performed as a duo for various events including Ceílís.  Seán’s rhythmic guitar playing provides a beautiful platform for the violin and flute.  At other times his string bass adds a unique and essential drone to select tunes.  Seán also "contributes" his offbeat humor to the group.

Sally Mehler

Main Vocalist, Flute, Tin Whistle, Appalachian Dulcimer

Sally has been playing  flute since she was 13, and singing since birth.  She graduated from UCSB with a BA in flute performance.  Although she studied classical flute in college, she was immediately drawn to Irish music when she first heard it.  Sally remembers hearing Seán and Gordon play a while back and the haunting tunes went round and round in her head.  She sought out Gordon and learned the Irish style from him.  Eventually they started playing those tunes together and the rest is history.  She teaches private flute as well as general music in a classical Christian school.

Bill Nippoldt

Percussion, Mandolin, Octave Mandolin, Some Vocals

Although he dabbled with guitar in his youth, Bill only started his music training as an adult.   Initially he started out with bongos and the trap set.  He expanded to djembe, congas and bodhran.  The variety of rhythms Bill produces adds an unusual and wonderful touch to the Celtic style of music.  Continuing to hone his music skills, he picked up playing on the mandolin and octave mandolin.  Bill builds drums and mandolins and teaches drum lessons.  Oh yes, and most of the instruments you see Bill playing, were crafted by him (including the bodhran you see in this photo)!