Kieran McManus is a renowned American cellist/multi-instrumentalist. Based in Portland Maine, he's been playing music for over 20 years. Piano was his first instrument, followed by guitar, drums, banjo, and then cello. In 1994, Kieran released his first album "Lost in the Music", writing all songs and performing all instruments. Using that same formula, he has released six albums that explore a wide range of musical styles including folk, rock, bluegrass, celtic, blues, and world music.

Kieran's fascination with cello began in 2004 when he heard the ecstatic music of Rushad Eggleston and Crooked Still. An instant disciple, Kieran got a cello and began studying with Rushad. During this formative period cello emerged as THE instrument for Kieran and has been his primary instrument ever since.

An avid musicologist and student of world music traditions, Kieran has studied diverse genres throughout his travels. While living in France , he had the opportunity to explore a wide range of European and classical idioms. In 1998, Kieran studied melody, rhythm, and harmony while living in a rural village in Tanzania Africa. In 1999, Kieran began working at the Smithsonian Folkways Music Archive in Washington DC under the expert tutelage of the head archivist. The archive was a universe of amazing and inspirational music. Kieran took full advantage of the opportunity to broaden his range and explore America's rich musical heritage. In 2000, he moved to Jackson Hole, Wyoming where he participated in and was a featured player at the world-famous "Hootenanny". This weekly musical gathering hosts a wide range of traditional musicians. It is legendary for maintaining the integrity of folk traditions and the roots of acoustic music in America. During this period, Kieran's music continued to evolve as he absorbed all these influences in crafting his own uniquely American sound.

In the past few years Kieran has been using his cello to bring happiness and soulful music to people all around the world. In between writing and recording music, Kieran maintains a busy schedule playing weddings and parties of all kinds. He is a natural with children and puts a smile on every face when he performs in schools and at birthday parties. He also offers guitar and cello instruction for students of all levels of experience, from rank-beginners to seasoned musicians.

In addition to playing music, Kieran is a technology consultant, web/software developer, and a world-traveler. He is currently on a one- year musical journey through the mountains and countryside of Nepal, India, Thailand and Southeast Asia.