Celtic Craichead

IRISH FESTIVAL in the Pinch this Saturday

2011-09-27T17:12:00.000-05:00

They don't have a website yet, but this will be in the Pinch (two blocks east of the Pyramid along North Main). Here is the schedule that I have been given for Saturday, October 1, thanks to Laurie Snyder:

12:00 Bagpipes and Irish National Anthem

Music with Marie Mann immediately following the National Anthem

12:30 Irish and Pinch History Walking Tour with Jimmy Ogle

2:00 Irish Afternoon Tea

2:15 – 2:30 Irish Dancers

2:30 – 3:00 Music with Marie Mann and Kali Celeste

2:30 Irish and Pinch History Walking Tour with Jimmy Ogle

3:00 – 3:15 Irish Dancers

3:00 – 5:00 The Delta Project (Back Porch Blues Band) Westy’s Patio

5:00 Pinch History Trivia

6:00 – 8:00 The Mighty Electric St. Jude Band

Sounds like it will be fun, go downtown this Saturday and enjoy!

Ed Miller Coming to Little Rock Folk Club November 19

2011-09-26T10:10:00.001-05:00

From Len Holton at the Little Rock Folk Club comes the news that Ed Miller is playing for them on November 19. The event will take place at Thomsen Hall at the Unitarian Universalist Church at 1818 Reservoir Road in Little Rock, and begins at 7:30 P.M. It is well worth a road trip to hear this wonderful singer, known for his takes on classics such as Crooked Jack and The Prince of Darkness.

We hope to see you there!

Eileen Ivers and Immigrant Soul at Buckman on September 29

2011-09-20T16:05:00.002-05:00

From Buckman's website, and YES. good seats are STILL available:

Eileen Ivers & Immigrant Soul

Thursday, September 29

Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Location: Buckman Arts Center

“Ms. Ivers is a gentle band leader, mixing bluegrass, classical, rock and even a little rap into her eclectic reels, the pinnacle of which was a percussion solo battle by the bongos, a drum kit and a tap dancer from Riverdance.” New York Times

Eileen Ivers, the headlining violinist for Riverdance, transformed Irish fiddling from a folk music tradition into an internationally acclaimed art. A former member of Cherish The Ladies, the Hall & Oates Band and a session player for Paula Cole, Hothouse Flowers and Patti Smith, Ivers continues to expand the genre on her own terms. The eight-time All-Ireland fiddle champion was declared "the future of the Celtic fiddle" by The Washington Post, and The L.A. Times said that Ivers' "originality and rhythmic swing may well provide the bridge Irish music needs to break through to a mainstream audience." Her high-energy performance and dynamic band will be a grand kick off to the season. Tickets are $28 and can be purchased by clicking here.

Dolly & Mairead Ni Mhonaigh

2011-09-20T15:50:00.000-05:00

Via Harpin' Hank Hogan, Dolly Parton and Mairead Ni Mhonaigh - just beautiful.

Fuchsia Band to Play at Celtic Crossing on September 7!

2011-08-29T10:08:00.000-05:00

As The Fuchsia Band makes it way to Jackson for CelticFest Mississippi, they have decided to stop off at Celtic Crossing for a show on September 7 at 8:30 P.M. Join us as Mairtin de Cogain and the boys regale us with songs and a tale or two at Celtic, don't miss it!

Celtic Fest Mississippi begins to gear up!

2011-06-20T10:37:00.000-05:00

Wow, has it really been since March 17 since I posted here? Sorry, there has been a lot going on around here in other aspects, so here we go.

From our friends at CelticFest:

September 9, 10, & 11
Ag Museum, Jackson MS

The 20th CelticFest Mississippi
is coming!

All the fundraisers, sponsorships, months of planning, sweating, professional counseling, and lots of Bandaids lead up to the best weekend in Jackson... now 20 years old.

CelticFest began as a way to introduce Mississippians to a genre of folk music and dance that we thought was pretty cool, but that also happens to be quite relevant to Mississippi's history.

What began as a humble labor of love has become a big labor of love, staffed 100% by volunteer workers and with an army of volunteer performers.
The secret is well out, with CelticFest garnering a national reputation amongst musicians and Celtic music fans: Mississippi has a gem of a traditional Celtic music festival (not to mention the largest céilí in the South, and in 2010 set the record for the largest Brush Dance in North America.)
Come see what all the rí-rá is about!

I think this is appropriate for St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T11:21:00.002-05:00

The magnificent Robbie O'Connell sings You're Not Irish...

UPDATE!!!! Memphis Irish Arts Foundation Fundraiser at Celtic Crossing on March 14

2011-03-08T00:01:00.000-06:00

I have just found out that The Mairtin de Cogain Project, with Mairtin and his friends Don Penzien and Valerie Plested, will be performing at this event, so this is an added treat!

BUA coming to Celtic Crossing on Saturday, February 19

2011-02-04T18:45:00.000-06:00

I just saw this in Facebook!

	Saturday, February 19 · 7:30pm - 10:30pm

Location	Celtic Crossing Irish Pub



More Info	Don't miss the chance to see some great traditional Irish music by BUA. *NO COVER CHARGE* www.buamusic.com Sean-nós singing and dancing, fiddle, flute, uilleann pipes, concertina, guitar and bouzouki come together in Bua—an Irish traditional music quartet comprised of some of America’s most talented young musicians. They “raise the rafters with their playing, charm with their singing, and delight with their contemporary energy.”-- Dirty Linen

SMITHFIELD FAIR coming to Blytheville NEXT FRIDAY NIGHT!

2011-01-21T16:07:00.000-06:00

Our friends from Baton Rouge are playing the O'Susanna concert at THAT BOOKSTORE IN BLYTHEVILLE next Friday night at 7 PM. it's just a short 75 miles and little over an hour, why not come on up? I called, and tickets are $10, but none are sold in advance, so show up and have some fun with SMITHFIELD FAIR next Friday!

New Year's Eve bash at Celtic Crossing!

2010-12-28T12:37:00.002-06:00

From Kristi Rogers of Celtic Crossing:

Hello All! Please join Celtic Crossing for our New Year's Eve Celebration!

***NO COVER CHARGE***

Live DJ, appetizers and drink specials and our traditional champagne toast at midnight!

Slainte!

How About a Samhain Brunch at Celtic Crossing This Sunday?

2010-10-27T19:05:00.000-05:00

From my friend Kristi Rogers of Celtic:

Hi Steve,
This is Kristi at Celtic-just want to let you know that we are having a special Halloween Brunch on Sunday, Oct 31st in celebration of Samhain! We are serving Colcannon and a wonderful pumkin bread pudding with caramel pecan sauce! Reel McCoy is playing, Irish dancers at 1pm and my wonderful balloon animal making friend Chris will be here making balloon animals for the kids! Hope you can pass this info out to all your friends for me. Hope to see ya there!

For the younger crowd, Creepshow at the Crossing Sat Oct 30th-10pm til close. Costume contest with $600 in prizes and drink specials etc.

Slainte,
Kristi

Michael Black Comes to Memphis THIS Wednesday

2010-10-23T15:36:00.000-05:00

Presented by MAMA:

Michael Black
Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2010

At the home of Rhonda Test in Cordova

RSVP 791-2334 or ratest58@hotmail.com

Suggested donation $20.00

Light supper 6:00

Concert begins 7:00

A member of Ireland’s premier musical family, Mi chael Black is a gifted, sensitive ballad singer with diverse, discerning taste in songs. His self-titled solo debut album, voted “Album of the Year” by Celtic Connections, showcases his fine tenor voice to impressive advantage. Irish Times says of that album, “There’s enough pristine music tucked inside this solo collection...to power a rocket.” Living Tradition Magazine says “As one might expect from a member of this notorious Irish musical family, Michael Black's debut solo album is furnished throughout with assured and accomplished vocals that are a delight to the ear. On offer here is a discerning fusion of contemporary and traditional material -- Michael's sound is decidedly organic, ranging from ballads of sublime beauty to boisterous shanties.”

Don’t miss what is sure to be a great evening of Irish Music from one of Ireland’s finest singers.

www.michaelblack.info

NTIF Announces 2011 Headliners

2010-10-21T15:50:00.000-05:00

I just wandered over to their website and found that they have announced their headliners and the theme Ireland, I Am Coming Home, and are they ever:

Altan
Brock McGuire Band
Cathie Ryan
Dervish
Ed Miller (they have to have at least ONE Scot!)
The Elders
Glengarry Bhoys
Jed Marum and Lonestar Stout
Tommy Sands
McPeake

Host hotel once again is the Radisson Central Dallas (6060 North Central Expressway, across from SMU at Mockingbird Lane, and, if you book before the end of the year, you can get a NTIF rate of $87 (Use NTIF as the promo code).

I never miss this, and if you love Celtic music, neither should you!

ClanJamFry Preview - Smithfield Fair

2010-09-19T21:38:00.000-05:00

In my craziness, I forgot shoot video of them last weekend at CelticFest, but Smithfield Fair should be familiar to veteran ClanJamFry attendees; the Baton Rouge-based trio has appeared at ClanJamfry more than any other group.

They are Dudley-Brian Smith on guitar and vocals, Jan Smith on guitar, accordion and vocals, and Dudley's brother Bob on guitar and bass.

Enjoy!

Our First ClanJamFry Preview - Peggy Loyd

2010-09-16T22:12:00.001-05:00

ClanJamFry, the Memphis Scottish Festival, is little more than a week away. We have three musical acts for the Scottish Faire, which will begin at 10:30 A.M. on September 25 with Peggy Loyd, who has appeared before at our Festival. Here is a video of her performing this past weekend at CelticFest; the gentleman with her is John Burleson, a great storyteller who performs with her at Jackson and at NTIF.

Celtic Crossing will be rolling at Cooper-Young Festival

2010-09-15T13:29:00.000-05:00

Here's the latest from the Crossing:

Come enjoy the weather this Saturday at Cooper Young Festival!
We are offering up a great take out special!
**** A PINT & A PIE****
(160z of McSorley's Black Irish Lager and Shepherd's Pie)
Ready for you to take away and enjoy the fest!
Live music by:
THE FELLS at 1pm (Traditional Irish music)
Kings of The Delta-8pm (Southern Groove/Rock)

Special festival menu for sit down dining as well! SLAINTE!!

I said the food was GOOD at the Festival, I didn't say it was healthy!

2010-09-14T23:01:00.001-05:00

When I went to nosh at CelticFest:

More Irish Dancing from CelticFest!

2010-09-14T22:44:00.001-05:00

Eric Farmer (he of the 2X8 dance) and Aimee Cole of the Jackson Irish Dancers with Legacy on Friday night of CelticFest:

Legacy @ CelticFest from Friday night

2010-09-14T22:05:00.001-05:00

Here is Val singing with Legacy from Friday night:

Wild Irish Roots at CelticFest

2010-09-14T21:07:00.001-05:00

Sorry for the wobbling, the flies were attacking my leg. If the fellow on the right looks familiar to you, he should: you remember Frank Bladen, formerly of Smithfield Fair, now with this Louisiana-based group. The singer is Kate Laborde.

Step Dancing the HARD WAY!

2010-09-13T23:33:00.002-05:00

Eric of the Jackson Irish Dancers dances on a 2X4 suspended between two cinder blocks on Friday Night at CelticFest. The band is Legacy, with Tim Britton sitting in on the uileann pipes. UPDATE: Eric emailed me to let me know that was a 2X8, but that he hopes to do this on a 2X4 some day. Amazing!

Irish Chair Dancing at CelticFest!

2010-09-13T23:09:00.002-05:00

Yes, things got a bit crazy at the sessions Saturday night back at the Cabot, and this resulted:

I'm shooting video like a madman at CelticFest Mississippi!

2010-09-11T00:15:00.000-05:00

You'll just have to wait until I get back on Monday to see it. Tonight, I shot video of Wild Irish Roots (Baton Rouge & Jackson), Legacy (complete with dancing from various Jackson Irish Dancers), Captain Mackey's Goatskin & String Band, and Peggy Loyd with John Burleson. Peggy, of course, is performing in two weeks at ClanJamFry.

We will shoot more tomorrow, this is truly a great festival, and while Cabot Lodge is full, there ARe other hotels in town, come on down!!!

This is going to be a BUSY WEEKEND at CelticFest Mississippi

2010-09-08T13:25:00.000-05:00

If you can't make it down to Jackson, then by all means hit Otherlands Saturday night for Spencer Bohren.

However, if you CAN, the schedule is up and ready for you to print off. Not only will it be old home week for me, seeing old friends like Smithfield Fair, Legacy, Peggy Loyd and others, but it will have special significance. In addition to the Ceili on Saturday night, in addition to the Whiskey Tasting on Friday night, there will be a special memorial service on Sunday afternoon for three people associated with CelticFest for years who have left us in the last year.

Honored will be longtime CelticFest volunteer Jerry Baldridge, veteran workshop presenter at CelticFest and NTIF, Curt Marcus, and our own Celtic Lauren, who conned me into going to Jackson in 1995, when I thought I didn't like Celtic Music.

I will be speaking on her behalf at the ceremony, which will be led by Dudley-Brian Smith of Smithfield Fair; she would be delighted, if a bit embarrassed for all the fuss, that he was there to lead it, as they have been to ClanJamFry more than any other act, including this coming year. This will be in the tent stage at 1:30 on Sunday afternoon.

This is going to be a marvelous weekend with great music and dance, and while the Cabot Lodge Millsaps is apparently full, there are other hotels in the Jackson area, especially the Cabot Lodge in Ridgeland, near I-55 & County Line Road.

Above all else, I want to thank my dear friends Don Penzien and Valerie Plested for including Lauren in the service. Lauren loved this festival more than any other for the homey, family-like feel that they bring to this festival. They opened their house up to me when Brian McNeill came to Jackson this April, marking only the second time I had left Memphis after Lauren's passing, and it is a gesture of kindness I will never forget.

I have a new Flip UltraHD, folks, so when I come home, I will have VIDEOS of the music and dance, and possibly some of the service.

See you Monday, if I don't get to see you in Jackson.

MAMA Presents Spencer Bohren at Otherlands Saturday night

2010-09-06T07:00:00.002-05:00

From the MAMA website:
Spencer Bohren
Otherlands Coffee Bar: 641 S. Cooper St., Memphis, TN, US (MAP)
A MAMA favorite son, Spencer Bohren, returns to Otherlands for a much-anticipated, late summer show. Spencer’s folk, blues, and gospel performances never fail to delight MAMA audiences. Since he last performed in Memphis, Spencer has released his latest CD, Live at the Tube Temple, recorded in Solingen, Germany, to rave reviews. In addition to an active concert schedule, he continues to host guitar workshops across the country, from Ohio to Montana and Wyoming, and he regularly performs his Down the Dirt Road Blues show to educate audiences at schools, universities, and museums about the shared history of blues and rock music. For this work, Spencer received the Keeping the Blues Alive in Education award from the Blues Foundation this year. Never one to sit still, he can also regularly be found on stage in New Orleans clubs.
If you know and love Spencer’s music, you’ve probably already bought your tickets. If you are unfamiliar with this performer extraordinaire, go to spencerbohren.com, read the stories, listen to the song clips, and then purchase your tickets to hear Spencer live. You won’t be disappointed.
$12

CelticFest Mississippi is almost here!

2010-08-29T09:09:00.000-05:00

www.CelticFestMS.org

CelticFest Mississippi 2010, Celtic Heritage Society’s 19th annual weekend of cultural celebration is almost here! It’s a packed weekend of Celtic music, dance, and fun not to be missed.

“CelticFest” is a celebration of the Celtic nations including Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, the Isle of Man and Brittany. It takes place on September 10-13 at the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Museum. CelticFest ...features an exceptional variety of exciting Irish and Scottish music and dance on 7 stages, plus free Celtic heritage, music and dance workshops, a children’s area, Celtic specialty vendors, and plenty of food and drink. Because much of the festival takes place indoors, CelticFest will be held RAIN OR SHINE!

CelticFest features several headlining artists of both international status and high caliber. 2010’s artists are Irish supergroup TÉADA (a young five-piece band from Ireland), New York-based DONIE CARROLL & FRIENDS, and CAPTAIN MACKEY’S GOATSKIN & STRING BAND, featuring Máirtín de Cógáin and Jimmy Crowley, both of Co. Cork.

CelticFest’s schedule of music will be splitting its seams for 2010 with over 45 other music and dance groups, travelling to Mississippi from as far away as California, Michigan, Rhode Island, Florida. Nine-Eighths Irish, Avoca, Kelly, and Slip Jig join the festival alongside old favorites Smithfield Fair, Finvarra’s Wren, Legacy, Jim Flanagan, and more.

The festivities begin Friday night 7pm-12am with music/dance performances on multiple stages, vendors, the Whiskey and Scotch Tasting benefit, and an open tune session. On Saturday, the gates open at 10 am with even more entertainment, workshops, and activities continuously until midnight. The gates open again 11 am Sunday for another day of Celtic fun.

A popular feature of last year’s festival, the Highland Games demonstration, will expand to a two-day affair. Mighty indeed!

An ever popular highlight of CelticFest, the massive Céilí Dance (pronounced ‘kay-lee’) caps off the Saturday night. Co. Cork native and featured Dancemaster, Éamonn de Cógáin will lead the Céilí for his third year running. No dancing experience is required to participate – beginners are welcome.

The children won’t be left out— CelticFest is a family-friendly festival! There will be a Children’s Area and kid-oriented vendors on the grounds.

Admission is $12 for an adult Weekend Pass, $8 for seniors and students, $5 for children ages 5-17, and $1 for children under four. “A greater value of this quality can’t be had in Jackson….,” says Harvey Kimble, past president of the Celtic Heritage Society.

The Celtic Heritage Society is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with the mission of promoting and preserving the arts and culture of the Celtic nations. CelticFest is a family-oriented event, and all CHS events are open to the public.

CelticFest’s sponsors include: Fenian’s Irish Pub, Wine & Spirits In the Quarter, Cabot Lodge Millsaps, Branch Cable, Capital Cities Beverages and Guinness, and the Jackson Irish Dancers. This project is also funded in part by a grant from the Mississippi Arts Commission, a state agency and by South Arts in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and the Mississippi Arts Commission.

Some Pix from Fuchsia Band at Celtic Crossing

2010-08-26T23:50:00.001-05:00

They were awesome as usual, and they dedicated a song to Lauren, which I appreciated greatly. Mairtin was on his game, as they all were. Thanks as always to DJ for bringing them in and to Kristi for the heads up!

Click on each pic to see it full-size.

Fuchsia Band At Celtic Crossing Thursday, August 26

2010-08-21T10:01:00.001-05:00

MOVED TO THE TOP

And here I was feeling bad because I couldn't go to Jackson to see them on August 21, and they will be here on August 26! From Kristi Rogers of Celtic Crossing:

Hi Steve,
Just want to let you know that The Fuchsia Band will be playing at Celtic Crossing on Thursday, August 26th, at 8:30 pm. Please post on your blogspot and pass around to as many people as you can. I would like to get a good crowd in for them.

No problem with that, Kristi!!

Led by the magnificent Mairtin de Cogain, this will be their second visit to Celtic; the last one turned acoustic when the power went out on the west side of Cooper. That won't be a problem this time!

Celtic Crossing has a World Cup Party this Saturday

2010-06-07T21:09:00.000-05:00

Peacepassers World Cup Kick-Off Party

USA vs. ENGLAND
Kick-off the 2010 World Cup with PEACEPASSERS and CELTIC CROSSING

Saturday, June 12th.

Watch USA v ENGLAND and other matches LIVE beginning at 0630 CST.

Join us in spreading the joy of the beautiful game, Soccer to kids around the world. Through a collaborative approach, the PeacePassers mission serves to collect and distribute soccer supplies to people and communities throughout the world. PeacePassers supports team development and the funding of sustainable sports league play to empower youth & maximize hope for all participants locally and globally.

Ways to Support PeacePassers on the day...

BRING A SOCCER BALL
Make a donation by bringing a Soccer ball.

90 MINUTE FIRST TO SCOREBOARD
Sponsor a minute(s) for $5. A total of 90 minutes will be available. Minutes will be drawn at random. If any goal is scored in your minute win an Adidas Jabulani Mini-Soccer ball and Adidas World Cup Poster.

WORLD CUP BRACKET
Enter the PeacePassers World Cup Bracket for a Donation of $10. Pick the group stage winners and predict the outcome of each match from the round of 16 through Final. Brackets are available at the Celtic Crossing. Grand prize winner will receive an Adidas Jabulani Soccer Ball, The Official Matchball of the 2010 World Cup and an entry into the final drawing to win a TRIP FOR 2 to LONDON to see Chelsea FC v. Manchester United in the FA Community Shield Live at Wembley Stadium. The Winner will be announced July 11th, the day of the final World Cup events! All participants will receive The Celtic Crossing World Cup Schedule Poster. Deadline for entry June 15th.

100% of all proceeds will be donated to PeacePassers, A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Charitable Organization

RAFFLE
$2 per ticket, $5 for 3

Sallymacs head to Nashville for a World Cup party on June 12

2010-05-13T18:43:00.000-05:00

From the SHOW INFO part of their website brings this news:

Event: Sallymacs show -
World Cup party, USA vs. England

Dan McGuinness' Pub, Nashville - Music Row
Event: Sallymacs show - World Cup party, USA vs. England
Start Time: Saturday, June 12 at 4:00pm
End Time: Saturday, June 12 at 7:00pm

Where: Dan McGuinness' Pub - Nashville
Address: 1538 Demonbruen Street, Nashville
Club Phone: 615-252-199

Let the Sallymacs entertain you on St. Patrick's Day with their style of Celtic-Rock.
Come join the party!

Celtic Crossing goes all out for its 5th birthday!

2010-05-12T23:05:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Kristi for the information! They start with a Scotch Tasting on Thursday, June 3 at 7 PM. Then, on Friday night, they have an old fashioned open seisiun beginning at 7 PM.

Saturday is OYSTERFEST, with local acts The Reel McCoys at 11:30 AM, Bob and Susie Salley at 2:30 PM, and the headlining act, THE PRODIGALS come on at 5:30 PM. Cornfed Mafia will come in at 10 PM to take you into the night.

Then, come on back on Sunday for a family-friendly brunch with Bob & Susie Salley and traditional Irish dancing (I think Memphis' own Inis Acla School may be involved here!)

Come on out for the 5th birthday of Celtic Crossing!

Mairtin de Cogain gives Jackson, MS a Night of Irish Stories

2010-05-12T20:00:00.000-05:00

Valerie sends us the following news from the CHS:

A NIGHT OF IRISH STORIES

(JACKSON, MS) Irishman Máirtín de Cógáin is coming to Jackson to tell stories old and new from his native Ireland. Few could be more qualified to do so -- Máirtín (say Mar-teen) is a two time All-Ireland winner in storytelling.

A native of the rebel County Cork, Máirtín is also a noted singer, drum player (the Irish bodhrán), and céilí/set dancer. His work can be seen with Co. Cork’s The Fuchsia Band, and more recently Captain Mackey’s Goatskin and Stringband with Jimmy Crowley, and the brand new Máirtín de Cógáin Project, who will be releasing a new CD this summer.

As if there weren’t any limits to his talents, Máirtín is an up-and-coming-actor, with a significant role in the 2006 Cannes Palm d’ Or winner, The Wind that Shakes the Barley. Additionally, Máirtín is bilingual, speaking both English and the Irish language (also known as Irish Gaelic).

This will be a special night featuring the art of storytelling, a little introduction to the Irish language, and a wee bit of music for good measure. Be sure to catch this special Jackson performance!

Covenant Presbyterian Church is providing the space for this event free of charge, and all proceeds for the event go to the artist.

The Celtic Heritage Society is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with the mission of promoting and preserving Celtic arts and culture in Mississippi and the region. Membership and participation in CHS events is open to all.

Wow, Brian McNeill is coming to Jackson, MS April 24!

2010-04-01T00:16:00.000-05:00

So says our friend Valerie Plested with this Facebook entry.

The legendary fiddler, songwriter and author will play Fenian's at 7 PM on April 24 to what I suspect will be a packed house, because, (you'd better sit down for this) IT'S FREE!!!!!!!

Yes, you'd better get there early because it will be crowded. This is only the man who founded the Battlefield Band, and who wrote such brilliant songs at Any Mick Will Do, The Prince of Darkness and so many others that I can't even count.

DO NOT MISS THIS!

Bob Dylan talks about the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem

2010-03-17T17:52:00.001-05:00

I got this link from a Roger Ebert tweet...

This is my favorite Irish ballad ever

2010-03-17T13:47:00.000-05:00

As much as I love Cathie Ryan's work, this is IT for me. Here's Mary Black, singing Song For Ireland.

How about the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem?

2010-03-17T12:54:00.002-05:00

Indeed, why not?

What better way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day?

2010-03-17T10:28:00.002-05:00

Here's Robbie O'Connell singing You're Not Irish!

Well, if you can't make it to Dallas for NTIF..

2010-02-17T17:50:00.004-06:00

Fear not, good friends, help is on the way!

Mairtin de Cogain and Jimmy Crowley will be appearing that weekend at Celtic Crossing, 7:30 on Saturday night and 11:30 Sunday morning for brunch.

I wondered why they weren't on the NTIF schedule, now I know. Go see them!!!

Oh MAMA! Big show at Otherlands Saturday night!

2010-02-09T17:22:00.004-06:00

From the MAMA website:
8 p.m. Saturday, February 13, 2010
Otherlands Coffee Bar
641 S. Cooper
901-278-4994

On February 13th, Memphians will have the opportunity to witness a rare convergence of stars in the blues firmament—a supernova of sorts: Andy Cohen, Eleanor Ellis, and William Lee Ellis will occupy the same stage for an extraordinary evening of music-making featuring country blues, old time, and gospel music as exemplified in their 1993 collaboration Preachin’ in That Wilderness.

Cohen, Ellis, and Ellis have absorbed a plethora of musical influences to land squarely in the vibrant vicinity of country blues, in particular that of the acoustic guitar style known as the Piedmont blues, promulgated by musicians such as Blind Boy Fuller, the Reverend Gary Davis, Archie Edwards, and Cephas and Wiggins. Their performances pay homage to those who went before them, those who continue to keep this tradition alive, the masters at whose feet they learned this music.

Andy Cohen certainly needs no introduction to MAMA audiences certainly need no introduction to Andy Cohen, a man who hasn’t met a stringed instrument he couldn’t charm music from in a memorable fashion. Cohen grew up in a house with a piano and Dixieland jazz records. The Folk Music Revival of the nineteen sixties exposed him to the recordings of Jim Kweskin and Big Bill Broonzy as a teenager, and at 16 he saw the Reverend Gary Davis. He has never since looked back. Ever since, Andy has been playing and promulgating that music, and in the process he has become an authority on, among other topics, the guitar styles of the Reverend Davis.

The venerable U.K. publication Folkroots calls Eleanor Ellis (no relation to Bill, except musically) “an unsung heroine of the American acoustic country blues scene.” She was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, and grew up in Amite, guaranteeing her exposure to a veritable gumbo of musical traditions. R&B recordings on the radio first piqued her musical interest and prompted a request to her parents for a guitar. Back in New Orleans, she teamed up with budding mandolin player Hazel Schlueter, and from there joined the full-fledged bluegrass group the Green Valley Cut-Ups, where she was persuaded to take up the double bass. A move to Maryland exposed her to the Piedmont blues, and she has since established herself as a performer, archivist, and historian of this venerable style. Writing of her CD release Comin’ a Time, in the Blues Art Journal, Larry Benicewicz observed, “As to whether or not Eleanor wants to come out of the shadows and share the spotlight of local luminaries, she may not have a choice, since her brand new CD is just that remarkable to officially put her on the map.”

William Lee Ellis (Bill to his friends and many fans) is another performer who needs no introduction to Memphis audiences and whose musical pedigree is impeccable. He is the godson and namesake of Bill Monroe and the son of Tony Ellis, banjo picker and fiddler extraordinaire in Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys. Learning bluegrass from that genre’s luminaries as a boy and accompanying his father, Bill inevitably struck out on his own, earning a degree in classical guitar performance in college. Then, Andy Cohen introduced Bill to the playing of the Reverend Gary Davis, and Bill succumbed to that music’s potent spell. Blues Bites called God’s Tattoos, his most recent recording, a “stunning piece of American music,” “an exceptional release.

None of these talented musicians has been content merely to transmit a tradition. As much as they revere their forbears, they are too creative not to inject their own ideas into this music, paradoxically remaining truer to the living, breathing tradition in the process. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear Andy Cohen, Eleanor Ellis, and William Lee Ellis conjure up a country blues whirlwind on February 13th.

Tickets are $10, available at Otherlands and Davis-Kidd Booksellers.

Gaelic Football League comes to Arkansas

2010-02-09T16:36:00.002-06:00

Or, actually, has been there since 2007, but I didn't know. I just got this email from the leader of Arkansas' Gaelic Athletic Association:

Steve

Not sure if you've heard of us before but Little Rock GAA has been in existence since late 2007. We are starting our 3rd season of playing the Irish sport of Gaelic Football in Little Rock. We've helpd to spawn new clubs in Northwest Arkansas, Fort Smith, Springfield, MO, and we even have a club trying to get going in Camden AR! We host a tournament on Memorial Day weekend in Little Rock. Last year we had 4 teams: Little Rock, Northwest Arkansas, St. Louis, and Kansas City. Would you mind adding us to your blog link list or maybe even put the word out there? We'd very much like to see a club get spouting in Memphis and Kansas City has said they'd be more than happy to come down and help us do a demonstration some time!

Cheers!

John D. Wooldridge

Chair Little Rock GAA

http://littlerock.arkansas.gaa.ie

Anyone interested? If there is such a league in Memphis or Tennessee, please give me a shout at sjs1959 at gmail dot com!

Burns Nicht is almost here!

2010-01-11T14:08:00.001-06:00

From the Memphis Scottish Society -

Memphis Scottish Society’s
27th Annual
Burns Nicht Dinner

The Memphis Scottish Society invites all lovers of Robert Burns and Scotland to join for our Burns Nicht Dinner, a feast not only for your palate but for your other senses as well, delighting the eye with the vibrant hues of the tartan and the flash of the kilt and the ear with Burns’ beloved poems and songs, speeches in tribute to him, bantering toasts and the skirl of the pipes.

Woodland Hills Ballroom

at the intersection of Houston Levee Road (Hall Road) & Woodland Hills Drive
10000 Woodland Hills Drive
Cordova, TN 38018
[Map]

Saturday, 23 January, 2010

Seating & Social Hour 6 PM Dinner 7 PM Cash Bar

Piping in the Haggis

Bagpipes, drums, Scottish dancing, poetry and dinner, all to celebrate
Robert Burns, Scotland’s favorite bard

Entertainment by
Ed Miller
Ed Miller has been hailed as “one of the finest singers to come out of the Scottish folk song Revival” and as “one of Scotland’s best singing exports.” Originally from Edinburgh, he has for many years been based in Austin, where he gained graduate degrees in Folklore and Geography at the University of Texas. Ed performs at concerts, clubs, house concerts, festivals, Highland Games and Burns Suppers, as well as for lectures and workshops, and has recorded 8 CDs of Scottish songs.

For more information, go here.

Have you made your reservations for Dallas yet?

2010-01-11T13:12:00.001-06:00

The North Texas Irish Festival takes place March 5-7 at Fair Park in Dallas, and they have a great lineup listed on their site. If, like me, you don't live in the Metroplex, you need to book reservations now at the host hotel, the Radisson Central Dallas on the North Central Expressway just north of Mockingbird Lane. When you call the Radisson, remember to use the code NTIF (duh!) to get the NTIF rate of $83 (plus a 15% local hotel/motel tax).

We hope to see you there!!

For Lauren

2010-01-08T14:03:00.000-06:00

crossposted from LWC -

I wanted to put this up today for Lauren, as she loved Ed Miller and this rendition of the old ballad Crooked Jack.

Information on the services for Lauren Hesse

2010-01-06T17:43:00.000-06:00

Visitation for Lauren Hesse will be held from 5-7 PM on Friday, January 8 at Canale Funeral Directors at 2700 Union Avenue Extended.

Her funeral will be on Saturday, January 9 at St. Anne's Catholic Church at 706 South Highland at 10:30 A.M.

In lieu of flowers, our family asks that donations be made either to the Center for Southern Folklore or the Church Health Center.

Our deepest thanks to all of you

2010-01-06T00:00:00.001-06:00

As Patrick updated on Facebook earlier today, we learned late Monday night that our Lauren no longer had function of her brain, the very thing that made her her. We have kept her going so that her father could see her tonight, as well as her Aunt Cherie and Uncle John.

In the morning, she will begin saving the lives of other people ...as her organs are taken for transplant, and tonight, we said goodbye to her for the last time.

While we have not been able to respond as we would have liked, know that your outpourings of love and prayers and support mean more to our family (and not just those related by blood) that we can ever express. She gave us so much that she is always with us, in spirit if not in body, and by doing those things we do of which she was such a major part, her memory shall never leave us.

This will be my last update for a while, please go to our friend Trace Sharp's website, www.newscoma.com, for more updates.

We as a family need a little bit of time to prepare for the celebration of her life, and we will make sure that you know when and where these will take place.

On behalf of the family, thank you for all you have done for us, it will never be forgotten.

Steve

Happy Christmas!

2009-12-25T08:00:00.000-06:00

A more traditional Christmas performance by Téada

Seasons Greetings!

2009-12-24T08:00:00.003-06:00

A favorite song for this time of year! Fairytale of New York by the Pogues!

Something more traditional to come.

A Little Christmas Humor

2009-12-23T18:22:00.002-06:00

Happened upon this in my search for Scottish or Irish music to post for Christmas.

Enjoy!

Dead Irish Blues at Huey's Midtown this Sunday from 4-7

2009-12-16T13:27:00.001-06:00

Just got this in the email from Greg Faiers of Dead Irish Blues!

Hey -- Greg Faiers of Dead Irish Blues (www.deadirishblues.com) here. Marty and I playing this Sunday at Huey's Midtown 4-7 pm. As usual, when we're in Memphis, Jimmy Crosthwait will join us. We usually perform a mix of Blues/Jugband, Celtic, Hillbilly, and original tunes when we're at "non-Irish" venues, as will be the case Sunday. If the crowd is into the Celtic material, we play more of it!

Below are a couple of links to video clips of the entire band playing up here in PA.

Roddy McCorley

http://www.johnstowncafe.com/video.php?id=videos/20090613deadirishblues02.flv

Brian Boru's March / Ray's Favorite

http://www.johnstowncafe.com/video.php?id=videos/20090613deadirishblues07.flv

Kelly the Boy From Killarne

http://www.johnstowncafe.com/video.php?id=videos/20090613deadirishblues01.flv

Thanks...and Happy Holidays!

Greg Faiers
DIB

Let us remember the great Liam Clancy

2009-12-04T12:40:00.003-06:00

It's not a feel-good Friday after hearing the news of the passing of the legendary Liam Clancy, aged 74. Thanks to Mairtin de Cogain for the tip.

Along with his brothers and singer Tommy Makem, he helped revive traditional Irish music worldwide during the 1960s, making it possible for us to enjoy this music today. He will be deeply missed; please remember his family, including his brilliant musician son Donal in your thoughts.

Here they are playing Old Orange Flute.

For those of us who have been waiting, a reward!

2009-11-24T15:47:00.003-06:00

Maggie Drennon is BACK! She has a new CD out, called Just Now, which was recently completed in her old stomping grounds of Houston. For more information, go here! I am ordering one today, and will let you know when we get it.

She had taken some time off, and I hadn't heard her sing for a long time. Then, at the 2009 North Texas Irish Festival, she did some sets with her husband, Matthew Williams, backing her. it was as if she had never left, sounding brilliant as always.

This is her first CD in several years, and I can't wait to hear it!

Welcome back, Maggie!!!!

Feel Good Friday--Celtic Style

2009-11-20T08:00:00.000-06:00

First let me say, this isn't an Irish or Scottish song, it's actually Stephen Foster, but it has been sung my many Celtic artists. This particular version is by our friend Beth Patterson of New Orleans.

We first met Beth at CelticFest Mississippi, when she was pulling double duty, playing with both Legacy and the Poor Clares. Beth is a talented songwriter, bouzouki player and has a wicked, tongue-in-cheek sense of humor. Performing solo or with her group Kalafka, you can expect a variety of musical influences, from the Celtic to the Middle East with some Cajun spice thrown in for good measure.

Don't forget to go see Jimmy Crowley at the Celtic Crossing on Saturday, Nov. 21!

The Legendary Jimmy Crowley Live!

2009-11-18T15:17:00.003-06:00

Jimmy Crowley, half of Captain Mackey's Goatskin & String Band, will be making an appearance at the Celtic Crossing on Saturday, November 21st from 7 to 10 pm. Jimmy is a lovely man with wonderful stories to tell and great songs to sing! Y'all come out and enjoy him!

Here's a little video of Jimmy with his most recent partner in crime, Mairtin de Cogain, singing "I Know My Love". Unfortunately, Mairtin won't be with Jimmy on this trip to the Bluff City.

The Parting Glass

2009-10-30T16:26:00.003-05:00

I just saw this on Facebook a little while ago.

"The Celtic Community of North Texas has lost a giant of a man. Last night, our dear friend Curt Marcus suffered a fatal heart attack. He was a beautiful man, devoted to Irish music, his family and the celtic community. He has touched so many lives."

Steve & I had the pleasure of a conversation with Curt on the shuttle bus at NTIF last March. He is a man we've seen there and at CelticFest Mississippi for many years now, but really hadn't talked with until this year. It will be odd being at both festivals and not seeing him there.

Here's a song for Curt.

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A Brush Dance for Feel Good Friday

2009-10-09T00:03:00.002-05:00

THIS is why we hate that we missed CelticFest Mississippi this year. Here, sent to us from our friend Valerie Plested (the talented fiddler of Legacy and one of the people who put this together every year), is a brush dance with Mairtin de Cogain leading the ceili dancers, joined by his brother Eamonn. Enjoy!

Legacy for FGF!

2009-09-25T11:06:00.003-05:00

Crossposted from LWC:

Here are our friends from Jackson (and Orlando), Legacy, who are performing tomorrow at ClanJamFry, the Memphis Scottish Festival, which is taking place at Evergreen Presbyterian Church from 10 AM-5 PM tomorrow. Joining them will be Memphis' own Sallymacs.

For more on this Celtic weekend in Memphis, see the post below; now sit back and enjoy Legacy.

Clanjamfry!

2009-09-22T18:30:00.000-05:00

This weekend is Clanjamfry: A Scottish Festival!

Friday evening is the Ceilidh (or dance)(open to the public).
Saturday will be the Scottish Faire with dancing, crafts, workshops, clans, Border Collie demos, children's activities, and great music. (Unsure of the admission)
Saturday evening is a Concert in the Kirk by the fabulous Brian McNeill! ($20 ticket)
Sunday morning there's a Kirkin' o' the Tartans church service, followed by Dinner on the Grounds.

The Cracker & I will be managing the stage, which offers dance and music this year. I'm afraid I don't know much about the dancing, but I know lots about the music from Legacy and the Sallymacs.

Legacy, a tight, powerhouse trio from Jackson, MS (& Orlando, FL) features Valerie Plested on fiddle, Justin Murphy on flute, guitar & bodhran, and Don Penzien holding it all together with the guitar and bodhran (and vocals from all three). Legacy is in the top flight of regional bands performing music from the Irish tradition; their loyal following is both well-earned and deserved. Their skill is undeniable, their arrangements are complex and challenging, and their performances are tight and energetic. And they are really great people too. This is their second appearance at Clanjamfry.

The Sallymacs combine a traditional celtic style with a contemporary rock sound. The Sallymacs have created a high energy Irish-Rock show that will have everyone raising their drinks high in the air while they dance, shout, and sing along. The Sallymacs are Mark Harriman, Mark Yoshida, Todd Nichoalds & Brady Howle. This weekend marks the Sallymacs 10 Year Anniversary Weekend and their third Clanjamfry appearance.

The Evening Concert features the legendary Brian McNeill. I cannot say enough wonderful things about this man. He is truly a legend. He is a founding member of the Battlefield Band. A multi-instrumentalist, Brian plays fiddle, octave fiddle, guitar, mandocello, bouzouki,viola, mandolin, cittern, concertina, bass and hurdy gurdy. He has been described as "Scotland’s most meaningful contemporary songwriter"; add to that his work and influence as performer, composer, producer, teacher, musical director, band leader, novelist and interpreter of Scotland’s past, present and future and you have a man who has never stood still. One of my favorite festival memories was 3 hours with Brian and Ed Miller in a colonial period icehouse that was restored and made into a wonderful listening room. This concert with be worth every penny of the $20 ticket.

In addition to the Clanjamfry events, there are quite a few other things going on, Celtic-wise.

9/25 (Fri) Sallymacs at the Blue Monkey, 2012 Madison Ave.
Show starts at 10 pm. Cover ?

9/26 (Sat) Legacy at Celtic Crossing, 903 S. Cooper St.
Show starts at 6 pm. No cover

9/27 (Sun) Legacy at Celtic Crossing's Irish Brunch, 903 S. Cooper St.
Brunch 11:30 to 2 pm. No cover

9/27 (Sun) The Prodigals at Levitt Shell, Overton Park.
Show starts at 7 pm. No cover. (see here for their policies)

The Cracker & I will try to make as many of these events as possible, but not even we can bi-locate. Hope to see you there!

Feel Good Friday Goes to the Dogs!

2009-09-04T11:34:00.003-05:00

A huge crowd-pleaser at the Highland Games is always the Border Collie Demonstrations. These dogs are so smart that it is a thrill to watch them work!

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Note that these are working dogs and must be kept busy. A bored Border Collie is a destructive Border Collie. The herding instinct is very strong and they will attempt to herd anything that moves, like small children. Beautiful, intelligent dogs that too often end up in shelters. Don't take one on, unless you are equipped to deal with them properly.

September is Celtic-ful!

2009-08-26T16:10:00.004-05:00

CelticFest Mississippi is one of our favorite festivals to attend. It always feels more like a gathering of friends than a music festival. So many events that we attend separate the performers from the festivalgoers, but not this one. This festival is a chance for performers to see old friends and to enjoy hearing other people perform, or in some cases, to play together. Then after the main event, we all go back to the host hotel and enjoy the seisuins. If we lived in Jackson, the Cracker and I would definitely want to be a part of the volunteer team that runs this event. In fact, this event was part of the reason that the Cracker got interested in Celtic music, well with a little influence from yours truly. UPDATE: Their schedule is now up, and you can find it here!

As things are, we do not volunteer at this festival, but not because we don't support it. Mostly because we need a break between events. One of our busiest weekends of the year is the Memphis Music & Heritage Festival on Labor Day weekend. An event that, sadly, will very rarely feature any Celtic music. We've been trying for years, but with only modest success. If you enjoy a wide variety of music, that doesn't include Celtic this year, do check out the MMHF presented by the Center for Southern Folklore.

The last weekend of September is filled with Celtic music! Again, the Cracker and I will be working at Clanjamfry, the Scottish Festival presented by Evergreen Presbyterian Church. In addition to playing at the festival, Legacy, from Jackson, MS, will be performing at the Celtic Crossing and the Levitt Shell will present The Prodigals, a Celtic rock band from the East Coast.

So, to recap. Check out other types of music at the Memphis Music & Heritage Festival (blues, soul, gospel, jazz, country, reggae, klezmer & more). Make the drive to Jackson, MS for CelticFest Mississippi for a great weekend of Celtic music. Visit Cooper-Young Festival and patronize our artist friends. Then come to Clanjamfry to see Legacy and the Sallymacs; the evening concert presents the great Brian McNeill (or have a pint and see Legacy at the Celtic Crossing). Join us for brunch and traditional Irish music with Legacy at the Crossing again on Sunday morning (or go to Evergreen's Kirkin' o' the Tartans, followed by Dinner on the Grounds). Then bring a picnic, blanket and non-alcoholic beverage to the Levitt Shell for some kickin' Celtic rock with The Prodigals. I'm tired just thinking about next month.

CelticFest Mississippi Is Coming!

2009-08-21T13:21:00.000-05:00

This week's installment of Feel Good Friday brings us one week closer to CelticFest MS. As I look forward to make the short trek to the Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum, I want to share this snippet from Tim Britton, Uillean piper extraordinaire.

Tim is one of the headliners for this year's event and a perenial favorite. For more information about the event, see the festival website. If you are attending the event, make sure to come to the host hotel, Cabot Lodge Millsaps, for the seisuins that last until the wee hours (sometimes they run into the staff putting out the breakfast bar).

See you there!

CelticFest Mississippi! Coming Soon!

2009-08-14T12:55:00.005-05:00

With the coming of September, we enter the busy season for the Cracker and I. After we work the Memphis Music & Heritage Festival (which, alas, has every kind of music, but Celtic), we head to Jackson, MS for a great weekend of music and craic at CelticFest Mississippi. Headlining this year is the group Trian, Captain Mackey's Goatskin and String Band, Tim Britton and Brendan Nolan. In addition, there are great regional performers, dance groups and music & cultural workshops.

For Feel Good Friday, I chose this video of Máirtín de Cógáin and Jimmy Crowley singing "I Know My Love". As Captain Mackey's Goatskin and String Band, joined by Don Penzien and Valerie Plested of Legacy, they emphasize the songs about soldiers and soldiering.

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CelticFest Mississippi is completely run by a group of dedicated volunteers. Among those volunteers are Don Penzien and Valerie Plested two-thirds of the group Legacy. Here is Legacy performing at a house concert.

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If you are in the area, join us for this great weekend!

Feel Good Friday

2009-07-17T08:00:00.002-05:00

This week's selection finds us with Gerry O'Beirne. I've had the pleasure of seeing Gerry at festivals and at a MAMA concert. He is a fabulous musician and even more fabulous songwriter. He played with EJ Jones and Rosie Shipley in The Willow Band, with Patrick Street and in smaller groups as well. He also produced CDs for the Poor Clares and Clandestine. If you want to learn more about Gerry, visit his website.

This is Gerry at a house concert, performing his beautiful song, "Holy Ground".

Bagpipe-A-Rama

2009-07-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

My pick for Feel Good Friday is this selection from Teribus, a pipe and drum ensemble that is quite unlike the usual marching pipe and drum groups. Teribus, from what I understand, is rather fluid in its make-up, but in this instance is E.J. Jones, Richard Kean, and Kevin Hartnell on drums. E.J. and Richard are two of the best pipers I've heard. Both have played with the traditional pipe and drum bands and have won numerous prizes at those competitions. E.J. has played with numerous bands over the years, including Clandestine, The Rogues, Jiggernaut and The Willow Band. I've seen Richard with Jiggernaut and Poor Man's Fortune, but also know that he has played with Needfire and a medieval band whose name escapes me. Kevin Hartnell is with The Rogues. There's a whole backstory about bands named Clandestine intertwined with The Rogues, but you'll have to research it on your own.

Dead Irish Blues in Memphis

2009-07-06T12:36:00.002-05:00

I just found out that the Dead Irish Blues have 2 shows in Memphis this week and are making the circuit with shows at Fenian's in Jackson, MS and Enoch's in Monroe, LA. I have not heard them personally, but Memphis music legend and puppeteer Jimmy Crosthwait is performing with them during their Memphis run. Check out their website for more information. Looks like a fun show, especially with Jimmy adding his two cents and washboard.

Feel Good Friday!

2009-07-03T13:34:00.002-05:00

Let's Rock!

After reviewing some videos of a SixMileBridge concert that was to become their live album, I find that they were all a little too long for this forum. I still highly recommend checking out that footage.

I settled on this clip of Jiggernaut that was a quasi-reunion at NTIF this past March. It features Wolf Loescher signing his song "Amazing Grace (Again)". Anyone who has ever been to a Highland Games or a Pipe Band Competition will appreciate this song.

Jiggernaut was founded as a sort of Celtic rock supergroup. Killer vocals by Deanna Smith-Scotland, great musicians, originals and traditional songs with a rock sensibility. Jiggernaut is one group that the Cracker & I don't miss while at NTIF!

Feel Good Friday?

2009-06-26T12:10:00.002-05:00

Okay, so emotions are not so happy right now, with all the uproar about Farrah and Michael, both of which have little to do with Celtic music and culture. Anyway, I'm taking advantage of the melancholy mood to share an old favorite. Here is the Tommy Sands singing his song "There Were Roses".

Actually, my favorite is Robbie O'Connell singing, but it wasn't available.

Happy BLOOMSDAY!

2009-06-16T10:34:00.001-05:00

Tonight, Celtic Crossing will celebrate the life of the legendary Irish writer James Joyce. Here's more from organizer Vi West:

BLOOMSDAY June 16th Tuesday 5pm----

Bloomsday is celebrated worldwide to commemorate renowned author James Joyce's epic novel "Ulysses". Celtic Crossing is bringing a taste of Dublin culture to Memphis with our very own "Bloomsday" celebration.

We will have special menu items featured from the novel and dramatic readings by the "Memphis Bloomsday Players" Troupe from THEATRE MEMPHIS.... come out and support your local actors and experience a taste of Joycean timelessness!

Congratulations Peggy!!!!

2009-06-16T01:05:00.002-05:00

We just received this wonderful news from our friend Peggy Loyd in Little Rock, way to go!

Little Rock Singer-Songwriter

Wins Silver & Bronze Medals at 2009 Midwest Fleadh Cheoil

Little Rock, AR (June 16, 2009) Little Rock singer-songwriter, Peg Roach Loyd received a silver medal for Bodhran and a bronze medal for Newly Composed Songs in English at the Midwest Fleadh Cheoil held in Detroit in May. With the silver medal, Loyd qualifies to compete in the All-Ireland, Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2009, in Tullamore, County Offaly, Ireland in August. That competition draws qualifying musicians from throughout all of Ireland and around the world.

Loyd won the silver medal for her skill at playing the bodhran, a Celtic frame drum played with a stick called a “tipper.” Loyd played rhythms for a jig, reel, polka and hornpipe to traditional Irish tunes played on the flute by Mary Walsh of St. Louis, Mo. Both Loyd and Walsh are members of the St. Louis Irish Arts, a not-for-profit cultural organization that teaches Irish dance and music. St. Louis Irish Arts will perform at the Ozark Folk Center in Mountain View on June 19 and 20 where Loyd will be a featured guest of the group performing at the 2 pm matinee show on Saturday, June 20.

“I am very grateful to Helen Gannon of the St. Louis Irish Arts for providing me with the opportunity to sing with her group performing at the Ozark Folk Center,” Loyd said. “St. Louis Irish Arts is the only school of traditional Irish music located near Arkansas. They are a very talented group of young students and I am honored to perform with them.”

Loyd also won a bronze medal for her song, The Forgotten Ten, which tells the story of Patrick Doyle, one of ten men hung by the British in 1921 during the Irish Rebellion. Loyd heard about Patrick from his grand-daughter, Andrea Van Leirup, who now resides in Little Rock.

“The lyrics paint the picture well,” said Paddy Homan, the adjudicator for the songwriting competition, who complimented Loyd on her song. “Well sung. I felt the power. Very well done,” said Homan.

This was Loyd’s second time to compete in the Midwest Fleadh. She won a gold medal last year for Newly Composed Songs in English for her song, The Fiddler’s Feet and a bronze medal for Singing Traditional Songs in English.

The Midwest Fleadh Ceoil is one of two traditional Irish music competitions held in the North America. The Midwest Fleadh attracts musicians from across the U.S. and Canada. Over 200 musicians competed in over 100 contest categories based on age range and gender.

Loyd plans to compete at the All-Ireland in August even though the contest there is much more competitive. “I am very excited and grateful to have the opportunity to represent Arkansas and the United States at the All-Ireland in August. I enjoyed the competition at last year’s All-Ireland and while I did not bring home any trophies or medals, I heard everyone in the room tapping their foot to my song, and that was a moral victory.”

In Spring 2008, Loyd released her debut solo CD, Carving in Stone. The CD includes three traditional Irish songs and nine original songs of Irish themes and stories written in traditional Irish and American folk styles. Both award-winning songs, The Fiddler’s Feet, and The Forgotten Ten are on the CD. Proceeds from the sale of the CDs benefit three not-for-profit organizations: Heifer International’s Ending Hunger program and music scholarships for the Augusta Heritage Center’s Irish Week and the St. Louis Tionol, two music schools Loyd has attended over the years.

The selection of Heifer International stems from Loyd’s ancestral background. “My great grand-parents emigrated from Ireland during the Great Potato Famine, from 1848 to 1860,” said Loyd. “When I read about how Heifer got started and what they try to do to provide a longer-lasting solution to the hunger problem around the world, not just providing food, but real, practical and economical solutions for families in need, I knew immediately Heifer was a good fit.”

“The other organizations I support are music scholarship programs at two Irish music educational festivals – the Augusta Heritage Center’s Irish Music Week in Elkins, West Virginia, and the St. Louis Tionol. I have benefitted from the music education workshops offered at these two festivals for many years and wish to donate a portion of the proceeds from my CD to help young students who may not otherwise be able to afford to attend.”

Before striking out on her own as a solo artist, Loyd was the former lead singer of the Little Rock-based Irish folk band, Cairde, which performed for eight years throughout Central Arkansas and at regional festivals including the North Texas Irish Festival in Dallas, CelticFest in Jackson, Ms., and Clanjamfry in Memphis.

In addition to the appearance with the St. Louis Irish Arts in Mountain View on June 20^th, Loyd will be performing on Friday evening, June 19^th, from 5 to 7 pm at the Baker House Bed and Breakfast as part of the Argenta Art Night gallery walk and will play bodhran with the Arkansas Country Dance Society’s Contra Dance Band from 7:30 to 9:30 pm at Park Hill Presbyterian Church in North Little Rock.

Sample audio tracks from Loyd’s CD, Carving in Stone, are available on her website, www.CellaDawnMusic.com. Her CD is available for purchase locally at the Historic Arkansas Museum in downtown Little Rock and online through CDBaby.com, DigStation.com and iTunes. Loyd is a featured performer on theArkansas Arts Council’s Arts on Tour Roster.

No power? Who cares? The Fuchsia Band went acoustic!

2009-06-13T23:49:00.015-05:00

Mairtin De Cogain & company prepare to play acoustic.

My co-blogger and partner, the Lovely Lauren

More preparation!

Getting started; they tried to run a cord and a mic, but it kept screeching.

They sounded marvelous, especially early as the crowd had not yet filled the patio.

Mairtin sings Dick Darby.

All in all, a lovely night, considering the west side of Cooper was out of power (the Crossing used generators) but the east side was up and running (the couple next to us, dismayed by the necessarily light menu of two sandwiches, a salad, a wrap and bruschetta, got beer but got take-out from Tsunami across the street).

Once the late-night crowd arrived, it became more difficult to hear but they soldiered through. Mairtin advised the crowd to check their website as a new album was going to be released next week. All in all, an awesome night despite all the obstacles!

Bryan Bowers at Cafe Eclectic Friday, June 12, presented by MAMA

2009-06-08T19:34:00.003-05:00

MAMA presents Bryan Bowers at Cafe Eclectic this Friday night at 8 PM, for more information, go to the MAMA website.

He is a virtuoso of the autoharp; here's a part of MAMA's notes:

Credited with resurrecting and redefining the autoharp and widely regarded as its leading virtuoso, Bryan Bowers has enchanted audiences for over thirty years. He grew up hearing and singing the songs of the field hands and railroad workers in rural Virginia, and those songs took deep root. They found an outlet when he picked up first the guitar and then the autoharp while in college. The Dillards introduced him to the bluegrass community, and the rest is history.

The Fuchsia Band returns to Celtic Crossing THIS Saturday night!

2009-06-07T23:14:00.003-05:00

The lads from Cork via Kansas City are playing this Saturday night at Celtic Crossing, Beginning at 8:30 P.M. Call the Crossing at 901-274-5151 for more information!

I'll be there, we hope to see you as well...

Feel Good Friday--The Elders

2009-05-29T09:15:00.002-05:00

A selection from the Kansas City-based band, The Elders. Enjoy!

Fiddlin', No Foolin'

2009-05-14T17:17:00.002-05:00

Brian McNeill.

What else can I say? The man is a legend! Founding member of the Battlefield Band, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and singer. He can be as traditional as they come, then turn around and rock the place down! In a festival setting, Brian may start off playing solo, but soon the stage is buckling from the musicians joining him. Some of my favorite moments at festivals involve Brian McNeill.

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Feel Good Friday - Celtic Style

2009-05-08T13:40:00.005-05:00

This week, I'm going back a bit, to Cathie Ryan with Cherish the Ladies. The Cracker and I have had the immense pleasure of hearing Cathie live at festivals and concerts. She is truly a wonderful singer and makes you feel like you're in an intimate environment, even when it's a huge hall. My favorite venue to see her in was at the Celtic Classic, in the Icehouse. Man, what awesome acoustics! Plus she had the full band with her.

Unfortunately, I only heard about the set the evening before. It was Seamus Kennedy's set, but he was joined by Ed Miller, Cathie Ryan, some former Clandestine members (this was right after they took a break) and a few others for a great big sing-a-long. I cannot remember what group I was listening to, but I'm sure it was equally great.

Anyway, here's Cathie Ryan:

Ed Miller and Other Ramblings

2009-04-29T14:10:00.007-05:00

What can I say about Ed Miller? I saw Ed for the first time at CelticFest Mississippi in 1995 and I've been hooked ever since. His gentle ballads, spirited songs and "gentle" encouragement to sing along make him a favorite of mine and audiences all over Texas and the rest of the country, too.

My favorite memory of Ed Miller was a magical evening that the Cracker & I had in 2002 at the Celtic Classic in Bethlehem. We had the extreme pleasure of enjoying a three hour set with Ed Miller and Brian McNeill. They played together, separately and together again and the end came too soon.

This was made even more amazing by the venue, The Icehouse. It, literally, a 17th century icehouse that has been preserved and renovated to be a fantastic performance space. The acoustics are beyond excellent and it is truly a listening room. I've seen several exceptional performance in this venue, including Danú, Cathie Ryan, Clandestine, Old Blind Dogs, and the aforementioned amazing set with Ed Miller and Brian McNeill.

I love seeing Ed at festivals! I always try to see him more than once and am rewarded with different songs at each set. He has such an vast repertoire that he can easily play 4 or 5 sets at a festival and not repeat anything. Of course, you always risk missing a favorite song by missing a set. With his background in folklore, you always get more than just a song; you get the history and culture behind it.

As much as I enjoy Ed playing alone, he always has great people joining him on stage, by design or by chance. At NTIF this year, he had Scooter Muse and Jill Chambliss with him, which was a nice combination. I always love seeing him with Rich Brotherton and John Taylor or Brian McNeill. I remember NTIF one year where they had so many performers stopping by to join in, that they ran out of mikes and were sharing.

So right now, I'm listening to one of my favorites of Ed's--Prince of Darkness. Written by Brian McNeill, this song is about mining in Scotland, inspired by Brian's visit to the mining museum and a conversation overheard between the guide and some visitors who asked about his clan, to which the guide replied, "The union is clan enough for me." As Ed has often said, "You give a songwriter like Brian a line like that and you're going to get a song."

Ed isn't playing in Memphis until next January's Burn Night, but he has many CDs available for purchase through his website. Also I've heard great stories about his Folksong Tours of Scotland. I would love to take his tour someday. Check out Ed's website.

Tufer FGF!

2009-04-24T17:28:00.002-05:00

Since I've been so lax, here is a bonus selection.

The Cracker & I saw Loescher & Kenneth at the North Texas Irish Festival in March. Always great energy and something unexpected with those two! And special guest Gordon MacLeod!

Feel Good Friday Returns!

2009-04-24T16:59:00.003-05:00

Sorry for the long absence. Life got in the way a bit. Here are the Poozies!

As promised, a blowout at Celtic Crossing from Saturday through Tuesday for St. Patrick's Day!

2009-03-09T21:36:00.007-05:00

Click on the picture for the full effect.

Saturday evening and Sunday Brunch, our friends Valerie Plested and Don Penzien of Legacy will join Mairtin de Cogain and Jimmy Crowley for great traditional Irish music. Local faves the Sallymacs play Monday night at 8, and headline on St. Pat's at 9 PM Tuesday.

Come to the Crossing for a weekend-long party!

It's over, and it's been wonderful.

2009-03-08T19:00:00.003-05:00

There will be pictures up when we get home, but we are back at the hotel after a terrific North Texas Irish Festival, and we have some good news. Coming up Saturday night anfd Sunday for brunch, Legacy, along with Jimmy Crowley and Mairtin de Cogain, will be appearing at Celtic Crossing; more on that when we get back.

Highlights of the weekend included great sets by Clandestine, Ed Miller (who had Jil Chambliss and Scooter Muse of Henri's Notions playing alongside him), Slide, and the return of our friend Maggie Drennon, who has been battling illness for the last few years. Her voice was impeccable, like she'd never been away.

Last night's sessions were split up; there were three Irish sessions, and one Texas-flavored singer-songwriter circle that was awesome. While Lauren stayed with the straight sessions, I went to the Texas session, led by the Trinity River Whalers and Betsy Cummings of Beyond The Pale. Put it this way: it's the first session I've been to here where I could sing along, like on the rendition of Billy Joe Shaver's "Georgia on a Fast Train". It was different, and a lot of fun.

All right, enough for now, back to Memphis tomorrow!

Feel Good Friday!

2009-03-06T08:00:00.001-06:00

Please enjoy this selection by Smithfield Fair from the Scottish Festival in Arlington, TX. "Long Ships" is always a crowd pleaser and encourages participation.

The Cracker & I are on the road to the North Texas Irish Festival today. We have a full weekend of good music, good food, good friends, good craic! Hope to see you there!

Music at Celtic Crossing!

2009-03-02T15:04:00.003-06:00

I just found out that the Celtic Crossing has a special show tomorrow night (March 3rd). There will be a seisuin first, then at 8 pm a show with Danny Burns and Laurence Nugent. For more information, see the Celtic Crossing's Event Schedule.

Now I haven't seen Danny Burns, but the Cracker & I saw Laurence Nugent with Aoife Clancy on a couple of occasions and were mightily impressed. If you want to check them out, try their myspace page.

Maybe we'll see you there!

Feel Good Friday

2009-02-27T16:43:00.003-06:00

With all the talk about Eileen Ivers playing in area this spring, I am reminded of the first time I saw her play. We were at CelticFest Mississippi in 1995 and one of the headliners that year was Mick Moloney with Eileen Ivers & Seamus Egan. This was the first year that we went to CelticFest, and the Cracker wasn't even sure he would like Celtic music. (He's come a long way!)

This clip is Eileen Ivers & Seamus Egan with John Doyle, who will be playing at NTIF next weekend, and it is from shortly before that first (for us) CelticFest.

(I know it's long and there's a woman talking at the beginning, but be patient and you'll see why these folks are at the forefront of Celtic music today.)

Upcoming Events

2009-02-27T15:30:00.008-06:00

My friends at MAMA have asked me to put this up for everyone. Unfortunately, I'll be at NTIF for this concert, but encourage all you Celtophiles to check it out.

Sara Grey and Kieron Means
8 p.m. Saturday, March 7, 2009
Otherlands Coffee Bar
641 S. Cooper
901-278-4994
Tickets are $12, available at Otherlands and Davis-Kidd Booksellers
More information is available at the MAMA website

In addition, another friend has sent me this list of Celtic event coming up this spring:

March 14
Feile Franklin
Irish dance and music performances on Main Street. Two stages of continuous dance and music
615-591-8500
www.historicfranklin.com

March 21
Celtic Soul
Eileen Ivers
with the Memphis Symphony Orchestra
For tickets and information, check here.

April 4
Celtic Celebration
Memorial Auditorium, Chattanooga
Eileen Ivers is playing
Chattanooga Symphony & Orchestra 423-267-8583
www.chattanoogasymphony.org

May 16-17
Gatlinburg Scottish Festival and Games
Concerts, highland athletics, bagpipe competitions, dancing & demonstrations
800-568-4748
www.gsfg.org

Feel Good Friday!

2009-02-13T18:30:00.000-06:00

This week's selection is Ashley MacIsaac from Cape Breton--brilliant fiddler, but controversial in life. This is a traditional fiddle tune, but with his own twist.

Texas--Celtic-Style!

2009-02-07T11:19:00.006-06:00

In one month, the Cracker and I will be heading to the North Texas Irish Festival in Dallas. This is the 2nd largest Irish Festival in the US. We've been going to the festival, one or the other of us for 11 years and is it worth the trip! In addition to the music at the festival, which is held at Fair Park, the host hotel is the scene of some great seisuins! Every meeting room, bar, hallway, nook and cranny will have a group of folks making music! (A group of our friends in particular tend to favor a back hallway.)

The festival itself is nothing to sneeze at. They offer 11 headlining acts and 28 featured acts, filling Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday with Irish music (well, actually they throw in a little Scottish and even Breton, or French Celtic). For you dance aficionados, there are several dance schools in attendance and the local feis coincides with the festival. They have a stage just for the little ones and lots of vendors selling their wares (I've been known to start my holiday shopping here).

Performers include the following:
Liz Carroll & John Doyle
Mairtin de Cogain
Jimmy Crowley
Seven Nations (ROCK ON!)
Ed Miller (the "Token Scot")
Needfire
Jiggernaut
"Scottish" Rogues (kick-ass drumming & piping!)
Poor Man's Fortune & Bourree Texane (the Brittany connection)
Jim Flanagan
the triumphant return of Memphis favorite--Clandestine!
and many more!

Here's a video that gives some of the flavor:

We'll be stopping for the requisite Whataburger on the way down, and eating at one of our very favorite restaurants--Cafe Brazil--probably several times while in Dallas. It's a great event, not a bad drive, and awesome music! Join us!

Old Forest Jamboree at the Hi-Tone on February 18!

2009-01-26T20:34:00.000-06:00

While it may not be all that Celtic, this is to benefit a good cause. Naomi Van Tol sends us this:

Hellooo, all you Old Forest lovers!

If you need a break from the winter doldrums, please join CPOP for a foot-stompin' benefit concert to mark the first anniversary of the Teton Clearcut. We figure the best way to pay tribute to four acres of lost old-growth forest is by celebrating the 150 beautiful acres that survive.

The first annual Old Forest Jamboree will begin at 7:00pm, Wednesday, February 18 at the fabulous Hi-Tone Cafe, 1913 Poplar Ave. The cover charge is $10 and all proceeds will support the work of Citizens to Preserve Overton Park.

Here's our awesome lineup -- visit their websites to hear music samples!

* Jimmy Davis - http://myspace.com/jimmydaddy
* Giant Bear - http://myspace.com/giantbear
* Bluff City Backsliders - http://myspace.com/bluffcitybacksliders
* Hoots & Hellmouth - http://myspace.com/hootshellmouth

We are thrilled and grateful that so many talented musicians are willing to give their time and support to the Old Forest. Y'all come dance with us, and don't forget to invite your friends and neighbors!

Thanks for your support,

Naomi

P.S. Don't forget that we offer free public nature hikes in the Old Forest of Overton Park on the second Saturday and last Sunday of every month. Hikes meet at 10am at the east end of Old Forest Lane, next to the Rainbow Lake parking lot. Everyone is welcome!

FGF - Celtic Style

2009-01-23T15:45:00.001-06:00

I saw this band at the Folk Alliance last Feb. and enjoyed the little that I got to see. Here are The Strangelings.

Road Trip!

2009-01-07T16:01:00.004-06:00

Each year as the New Year begins, the Cracker and I begin planning our assault on the North Texas Irish Festival. Their website has the list of performers up. This festival always provides a great weekend of entertainment. We head down on Friday, stopping in Texarkana to get the Cracker his Whataburger fix. On Friday, we'll either head down to Fair Park for the evening's music or hang out at the hotel to listen to the seisuins.

Seisuins (or sessions), for those who don't know, are where musicians gather together for the joy of playing. Sometimes the most amazing music comes out of seisuins; sometimes new bands are formed at seisuins. I have this great memory of Eileen Ivers playing at a seisuin in Dallas with a family of youngsters. At NTIF, you just wander the ground floor of the host hotel and you're likely to find seisuins in empty meeting rooms, hallways, nooks and crannies, anywhere there is a space big enough for a couple musicians.

Then there's the actual festival! We go at the beginning and stay until the end, or close to the end. We may do a little shopping with the vendors and the CD booth, but it's mostly about hearing as much music as we possibly can. Oh, visiting all the doggies with the different rescue groups--Irish Wolfhounds, Greyhounds, and little dogs too.

Here's a video that gives a flavor of NTIF from 2007

This one shows more of the dancing, but we usually don't see a whole lot of that:

NTIF is a time when we get to see friends that we only see once or maybe twice a year. I have been going to NTIF since 1999, without missing a year. The Cracker didn't travel with me for only 3 of those years. Anyway, we highly recommend this event.

In addition to the music, the seisuins and the old friends, we also get to eat at one of our favorite eateries, Cafe Brazil. Yummy!

We'll see you in Dallas, March 6-8!

FGF - Last Christmas Hurrah

2008-12-26T11:08:00.001-06:00

I just thought that this would be refreshing for after the mad holiday rush. (This one's for our friends Ann & Pete.)

Feel Good Friday

2008-12-19T08:45:00.000-06:00

This week I'm moving away from the holidays and onto a great Celtic rock band from Kansas City--The Elders! The Cracker and I had the pleasure of seeing them at NTIF twice. I would have given almost anything to see them in Bethlehem at the Classic this year, but we just couldn't make that happen. I'm sure the town of Bethlehem didn't know what hit them! Anyway, here's a personal favorite of mine, "Packy Go Home". Enjoy!

Music at the Celtic Crossing

2008-12-09T14:15:00.004-06:00

I just received an email reminder about tonight's seisun at the Celtic Crossing. Apparently, there will be a seisun next week as well (they are usually biweekly), as a prelude to a performance by the fine Irish singer, Jimmy Crowley. Jimmy is a great traditional singer. I've included a short video of him with Mairtin de Cogain of the Fuschia Band. The two have toured together over the last couple years, really showcasing traditional singing and storytelling.

I will also mention that if you haven't been at the Celtic Crossing for the seisun, you really should check it out. Seisuns are a chance for musicians to gather and play together, learn new tunes and enjoy some craic. The seisuns are part of what makes the festivals like CelticFest Mississippi and North Texas Irish Festival so much fun. Any and everyone who plays will join in. Often you find folks who play for the fun and love of the music, alongside internationally renowned musicians. We often enjoy the seisuns as much as the scheduled performances.

Feel Good Friday--Holiday Style!

2008-12-05T15:37:00.004-06:00

In order to get you into the holiday spirit, here are our good friends Smithfield Fair singing "Deck the Halls".

A Man's A Man for All That

2008-11-26T16:21:00.003-06:00

I'm a little early for Feel Good Friday, but since it's the holidays, here you go. I've chosen the Robert Burns classic "A Man's a Man for All That" as sung by Jim Malcolm, formerly of Old Blind Dogs. What a voice that man has!

Feel Good Friday!

2008-11-21T12:44:00.004-06:00

After last week's hanky-fest, I've chosen a slightly more upbeat song for FGF. This is a favorite of the Cracker, since we saw Robbie O'Connell many years ago at CelticFest Mississippi. Sorry the video quality is not better, but the song is worth it.

FGF Celtic-Style

2008-11-13T15:58:00.006-06:00

Okay, folks, get out your hankies. I've chosen Smithfield Fair's Greyfriar's Bobby, about a Edinburgh constable and his loyal canine companion.

This wonderful song is based on a true story.

Feel Good Friday again

2008-11-06T23:18:00.001-06:00

The lovely Lauren has chosen Mairtin de Cogain and the Fuchsia Band for our FGF selection this week, enjoy!

Feel Good Friday

2008-10-24T11:44:00.003-05:00

the Lovely Lauren has chosen the Old Blind Dogs for Feel Good Friday this week! I hope you saw them at the ClanJamFry evening concert, they were outstanding.

CelticFest Tennessee

2008-10-15T15:54:00.002-05:00

I have received a report that CelticFest Tennessee is worth the drive to Jackson, TN. I haven't been to this event, because it coincides another annual event. I know that the headlining band is Needfire, from Dallas, TX. It's been awhile since I've seen them, but I understand one of my favorite pipers, Richard Kean, is playing with them now. This looks like a nice one-day event and the Cracker & I wish we could attend, but we have a previous commitment. If you want more information, check out the website: http://cswt.org/celticfest.html.

It's FGF again

2008-10-10T12:30:00.001-05:00

and here are the Scottish Rogues..

Celtic Craichead

IRISH FESTIVAL in the Pinch this Saturday

Ed Miller Coming to Little Rock Folk Club November 19

Eileen Ivers and Immigrant Soul at Buckman on September 29

Eileen Ivers & Immigrant Soul

Thursday, September 29

Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Location: Buckman Arts Center

Dolly & Mairead Ni Mhonaigh

Fuchsia Band to Play at Celtic Crossing on September 7!

Celtic Fest Mississippi begins to gear up!

The 20th CelticFest Mississippiis coming!

I think this is appropriate for St. Patrick's Day

UPDATE!!!! Memphis Irish Arts Foundation Fundraiser at Celtic Crossing on March 14

BUA coming to Celtic Crossing on Saturday, February 19

SMITHFIELD FAIR coming to Blytheville NEXT FRIDAY NIGHT!

New Year's Eve bash at Celtic Crossing!

How About a Samhain Brunch at Celtic Crossing This Sunday?

Michael Black Comes to Memphis THIS Wednesday

NTIF Announces 2011 Headliners

ClanJamFry Preview - Smithfield Fair

Our First ClanJamFry Preview - Peggy Loyd

Celtic Crossing will be rolling at Cooper-Young Festival

I said the food was GOOD at the Festival, I didn't say it was healthy!

More Irish Dancing from CelticFest!

Legacy @ CelticFest from Friday night

Wild Irish Roots at CelticFest

Step Dancing the HARD WAY!

Irish Chair Dancing at CelticFest!

I'm shooting video like a madman at CelticFest Mississippi!

This is going to be a BUSY WEEKEND at CelticFest Mississippi

MAMA Presents Spencer Bohren at Otherlands Saturday night

CelticFest Mississippi is almost here!

Some Pix from Fuchsia Band at Celtic Crossing

Fuchsia Band At Celtic Crossing Thursday, August 26

Celtic Crossing has a World Cup Party this Saturday

Sallymacs head to Nashville for a World Cup party on June 12

Celtic Crossing goes all out for its 5th birthday!

Mairtin de Cogain gives Jackson, MS a Night of Irish Stories

Wow, Brian McNeill is coming to Jackson, MS April 24!

Bob Dylan talks about the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem

This is my favorite Irish ballad ever

How about the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem?

What better way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day?

Well, if you can't make it to Dallas for NTIF..

Oh MAMA! Big show at Otherlands Saturday night!

Gaelic Football League comes to Arkansas

Burns Nicht is almost here!

Memphis Scottish Society’s 27th Annual Burns Nicht Dinner

Woodland Hills Ballroom

Saturday, 23 January, 2010

Have you made your reservations for Dallas yet?

For Lauren

Information on the services for Lauren Hesse

Our deepest thanks to all of you

Happy Christmas!

Seasons Greetings!

A Little Christmas Humor

Dead Irish Blues at Huey's Midtown this Sunday from 4-7

Let us remember the great Liam Clancy

For those of us who have been waiting, a reward!

Feel Good Friday--Celtic Style

The Legendary Jimmy Crowley Live!

The Parting Glass

A Brush Dance for Feel Good Friday

Legacy for FGF!

Clanjamfry!

Feel Good Friday Goes to the Dogs!

September is Celtic-ful!

CelticFest Mississippi Is Coming!

CelticFest Mississippi! Coming Soon!

Feel Good Friday

Bagpipe-A-Rama

Dead Irish Blues in Memphis

Feel Good Friday!

Feel Good Friday?

Happy BLOOMSDAY!

Congratulations Peggy!!!!

No power? Who cares? The Fuchsia Band went acoustic!

Bryan Bowers at Cafe Eclectic Friday, June 12, presented by MAMA

The 20th CelticFest Mississippi
is coming!

Memphis Scottish Society’s
27th Annual
Burns Nicht Dinner