Paddys River Band is a unique group of musicians. The core of the band are members of the same family:- David Johnson, and Anne Pidcock , and their son James Johnson . They have been playing together as a band since 1995. With James currently living in Sydney and so less available for functions, other musical friends are often invited to join the lineup.

Paddys River Band has performed at numerous functions, from bush dances, concerts, fund-raisers and parties to major Folk Festivals in Canberra, Sydney and Kiama. Read what our clients have said. See the Photo Gallery for some selected action photos.

The band had its genesis in a performance for a fund-raising concert at the Mittagong Memorial Hall on St. Patrick’s Day in 1995. The name "Paddys River" was chosen in honour of the occasion and as a tribute to the Paddys River that flows through Penrose on its way to the Wollondilly.

David and Anne each have over 20 years of experience playing with Southern Cross Bush Band, the first bush band to visit mainland China in 1987. David has also performed with several Sydney bands including the Reedy River Bushmen, The Rouseabouts, Sydney Coves and Pinchgut.

The music Paddys River Band plays has been influenced by various styles, including folk, country, blues and jazz, but bush music remains the core component of the band’s repertoire.

Paddys River Band dance music repertoire features collected Australian dance tunes as well as contemporary tunes, including some written by members of the band. Whether it be haunting Irish airs, lively Scottish reels, rollicking bush songs or environmentally sensitive songs, Paddys River Band has a range of music that delights and entertains.