It’s clear musical talent runs in the Celia family.
On Sept. 27, a double bill featuring David Celia & Co., and the Marcus Celia Band showcased their musical talents at Hotel Wolfe Island. The night was a family affair, with David Celia’s sons Lucas Celia, Sci ’24, MSc ’26, and Marcus Celia, a student at Humber College, playing in his band alongside bandmate, Cliff Rutherford. The evening started with a performance from Marcus’s own band, adding to the excitement of the night.
The Marcus Celia Band, featuring Adam Sims on bass, Sean Maiato on drums and backing vocals, and Marcus Celia on lead vocals and guitar, kicked off with a set almost entirely made up of originals. The band, made up of students at Humber College, delivered a dynamic performance. Starting off with Marcus Celia alone with his guitar, then transitioning into the full band, they were comfortable on stage, with Marcus unafraid to have fun with the crowd. Their most recent single, “Animals” was a standout, among other tracks yet to be released.
Though David Celia is no stranger to Hotel Wolfe Island, performing alongside his children was a special moment. The Toronto-based musician has been active for many years, and recently finished his Europe tour this summer, including a performance at the legendary UK festival, Glastonbury. He played a variety of songs from his discography, including his newest single, “Wake up Again,” as well as favourites from as far back as his 2003 album Organica.
Despite their dad’s profession, music was something the Celia children came to on their own, without pressure from their father. “I took a bit of a zen approach always—like they should do what they want to do with their lives—and it turns out they all really love music, and they’re really good,” David Celia said in an interview with The Journal.
Despite not practicing together often, the family played together like longtime bandmates. Their chemistry was clear from an audience perspective, but it’s something David Celia notices too. “[The chemistry] it’s instant and it’s effortless, and that’s all I can ever ask for when I play—just to be free like that,” David said.
The three Celias became four when the youngest sibling, Katie Celia, ed the band on stage during David’s song, “Afraid to Change.” Her addition on the keys was a highlight of the night, with all three siblings and their father sharing the stage in a heartfelt moment.
For Queen’s student Lucas Celia, music has always been a part of his life. However, as a student athlete, and captain of the Queen’s rowing team, finding time for it hasn’t always been easy.
“Being part of the team here, and in high school, I really put all my energy into that. Now, within the last two years, realizing that my time with this sport is kind of coming to an end, I had more time to think about what I’m going to do next. I ed […] I love to do art, make art, to play music. Putting more time into that has been really rewarding,” Lucas shared in an interview with The Journal.
From The Beatles to Midlake, David’s love for music is one that he’s ed down to his children, both in their talent and their taste. On his decision to pick up the bass, Lucas spoke about the love for music his dad fostered at home. “I wouldn’t say [playing music] was because of my dad, but mostly because I love music, and he’s always put it on—new stuff, old stuff—with that, it’s been a really huge influence. Like, I love music because of it, and I couldn’t imagine my life without it up to this point,” Lucas said.
Looking to the future, the Celias have exciting plans. “I usually go back to Europe around the time of Glastonbury. I’ve already asked them, and they seem very keen to go with me as the band,” David said.
The prospect of touring alongside his dad is something Lucas is looking forward to. “We’ve definitely been with him a few times as kids, maybe at least once, but never actually played with him on one of these. ing him finally is pretty exciting,” Lucas said.
To play alongside his children is an experience David Celia treasures. “It’s a dream come true—I can’t believe it. It’s just surreal, I’m so content, I can’t even describe it.”
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Hugh Christopher Brown
Was such an amazing night of music !
Looking forward to their return to Hotel Wolfe Island