Natalie MacMaster’s daughter brings Cape Breton tradition to a new generation

Mary Frances Leahy is reaching thousands of new fans on social media.

Mary Frances Leahy grew up in one of Canada’s most recognizable musical families.

The 20-year-old instrumentalist, vocalist and dancer is the oldest of renowned fiddlers Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy’s seven children. Raised on the road and surrounded by music, Mary Frances says her childhood was busy, unpredictable and deeply rewarding.

“The word I use is crazy in every sense,” she said in an interview with CTV’s Katie Kelly. “I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”

While MacMaster and Leahy built devoted audiences through decades of touring, Mary Frances is now reaching thousands if not millions of new fans through videos on social media – often featuring candid family moments and informal jam sessions.

Musically, Mary Frances blends Celtic and Cape Breton fiddle traditions with modern influences, while keeping East Coast culture at the heart of her work. She says sharing that heritage and helping people connect with where they come from has become a major motivation.

“I don’t take it for granted,” said Mary Frances. “I feel very lucky and very proud to be part of this family.”