ARIZONA IRISH MUSIC SOCIETY
AIMS NEWS AND NOTES
AIMS News and Notes 11-5-2008
Arizona Irish Music Society
www.azirishmusic.com
Information Line: 602-770-8077
Signup - signup@azirishmusic.com
George L. O’Brien - george@azirishmusic.com
News - news@azirishmusic.com
Anyone interested in receiving the Directory/Calendar only version of this newsletter should e-mail us at join@azirishmusic.com. You will be able to read the entire newsletter on the web at www.azirishmusic.com/00000000.htm.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Expanded Irish Cultural Center Gift Shop run by Pat & Patty McCrossan, the former proprietors of Ireland's Own, is now open from 10:30 am until 6 pm Tuesday through Friday and from 10:30 am until 3 pm on Saturday. It will also be open for any ICC special events. Call (602) 254-6094.
The Irish Cultural Center is at 1106 N. Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
602-258-0109 www.azirish.org
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Out and About
--- Brazen Heads Leave For Ireland
2. Muses To Play At ICC On Sat
3. Irish You A Merry Christmas Bake Sale This Weekend
4. Contradance News
--- Phoenix
--- Tucson
5. An Irish Language Workshop Dec 5 To 7 At ICC
6. Bright Spots For Music This Winter
--- Irish Acoustic Music Showcase Each Sat At Lis Doon Varna
--- Fri, Nov 28, 2008 - Celtic Thunder - Dodge Theater
--- Teada’s Irish Christmas In American (Tucson Sat 29)
--- Irish Nutcracker On Sat Dec 6 At Horizon High School
--- Winter Solstice On Sun Dec 21
7. Beoga 1st Tucson Appearance, 1st Ariz Tour Sat., Feb. 28
8. This Week In Irish Music
1. OUT AND ABOUT
--- BRAZEN HEADS LEAVE FOR IRELAND
Last weekend was the going away party for the Brazen Heads who leave for Ireland to do some visiting, gigging, and recording. Fiddle player Tim Sadow is having some surgery and will be out of commission for while. The band will return to action on Nov 21/22 with “Cozy” filling in.
The song “Dirty Dublin” is one of The Ten Finalists for The Clonmel Song Contest 2008” - http://www.clonmelnationalsongcontest.com/index.htm. The Brazen Heads submission is one of only two top ten finalists from the United States.
2. MUSES TO PLAY AT ICC ON SAT
Sat. Nov 8,
8:00 PM
Irish Cultural Center
1106 N. Central Ave.
Phoenix, AZ
www.azirish.org 602-258-0109
The Center will be presenting The Muses. If you don't know what is worn under a Scotsman's kilt, or what it feels like to have your imagination filled with Irish mist covering green fields... or especially if you do, you'll want to catch The Muses live! Tanya Brody plays the harp, hammered dulcimer, penny whistle, and many more instruments, but it is her angelic voice that will captivate your heart. Matthew Gurnsey plays the concertina, bodhran, bowed psaltery, mandolin and many others while singing along with a contagious sparkle in his eye that is sure to make you smile.
Together and along with friends they bring in for certain shows, they are an inspiring trip to the Celtic Isles saving you the price of airfare! Touring across the United States and Canada, The Muses will be performing locally! The Muses have shared the stage with The Glen Garry Bhoys, Alex Beaton, Rathkiltar, Michi Regier, and others. They play Scottish/Irish festivals and games from coast to coast (including some islands) and never miss an opportunity to entertain at an Irish pub when they have a moment to spare. With beautiful voices creating bewitching vocal harmony, The Muses are a Celtic experience you'll not want to miss. For this performance local fiddler Erin Lewis will also be performing. Performance starts at 8:00 pm and admission is $10.00.
BIOGRAPHY
Tanya Brody and Matthew Gurnsey play a plethora of exotic instruments ranging from bohdran & concertina to harp & hammered dulcimer; psaltery and pennywhistles to name just a few.
The Muses add new life to old songs as well as adding original material to the Celtic repertoire. Since the moment they chose to blend their voices in song they began captivating the hearts of every audience from Hawaii to Maine, Vancouver to Florida, weddings and pubs to concerts and main-stages at Scottish Games and Celtic Festivals. The Muses perform with a ferocity and a strength of heart that embodies the music they all love so dearly.
Seeking the return of traditional Celtic folk songs (and a stage overflowing with instruments & vibrance), The Muses breathe new life into a music that will never die. “Through our music you can feel the green shamrocks underfoot, catch the aroma of a distant salt sea, and taste the highland rain upon your lips.”
“Overall it is the vocals and the crisp instrumentation of Brody and Gurnsey that make them stand out and apart from others in the Celtic genre”
- Kevin McCarthy (Celtic and Folk Music Reviews)
“We received great feedback… It was the perfect family evening at the Chili Public Library”
- Sandra E. Roether (Vice President, Friends of the Chili Public Library)
“They have a chemistry that sparks. They may play many instruments between them but their voices are their greatest treasure”
- Antonio Santos (President , Scots-American Society of Brevard
“Besides the great entertainment The Muses offer, I appreciated the involvement and the participation they allowed the audience. You feel like they are entertaining you, not just being ‘the entertainment’.”
- Gil Clarke (President, Savannah Scottish Games)
Instrumentation
Tanya Brody - Vocals, Harp, Guitar, Hammered Dulcimer, Bodhran, Zils, Acoustic Bass, mandolin
Matthew Gurnsey - Vocals, Concertina, Bowed Psaltery, Acoustic Bass, Bodhran, Hammered Dulcimer, Penny Whistle, Mandolin, Bones, Dumbek, Bells,
3. IRISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS BAKE SALE THIS WEEKEND
On Friday, November 7 and Saturday, November 8, 2006, The Irish Cultural Center located at 1106 North Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85004 will be presenting: “Irish”You a Merry Christmas Christmas Holiday Gift & Bake Sale
This two (2) day event will begin on Friday evening from 6 PM until 9 PM and from 10 AM until 5 PM on Saturday Our goal is to make this an annual event There is NO admission charge to the sale. All items for sale have been made, baked, and donated by members of The Irish Crafters Group. There will be Christmas Carol background music including our very own theme song ”Irish" You A Merry Christmas, arranged and sung by one of the Valley’s best musical entertainers, Pat McCrossan.
Come see our affordable selection of new handmade gifts and baked goods You will find quality, and a great selection of items for sale. And yes, that perfect little gift for the “wee one” in your family will be waiting for you to buy as well as a gift or Christmas ornament for the teacher, your neighbor, friends and family. There is something for everyone including the family pet!
Special Kid’s Shopping section: Our group recognizes children need to shop for their parents and family members too! We have created a special inexpensive selection of gifts for children to buy and will have members assisting them with their purchases!
Check out our New Website...Speakers on, turn up the volume!
http://irishcrafters.com/index.html
4. CONTRADANCE NEWS
----------------------------------------------------
--- PHOENIX
----------------------------------------------------
Dear Phoenix & AZ Contra Dancers,
Come out on a cool Saturday evening in Phoenix to hear Seth Levine calling the dances and Traditional Blend blending those musical notes for your pleasure. Seth is an experienced square dance caller who is now delighting our dancers with fun contra dances. Bill and Patti Cummings play festivals and dances in Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Oregon. They also have been asked to play in Florida, Nebraska, New Mexico, Missouri, and Texas. Festival and dance performances include reels, jigs, slip jigs, polkas, slides, mazurkas, hornpipes, flings, strasthpeys, marches, clogs, two steps, one steps, waltzes, hoedowns, music for squares, etc... Their harmonies compliment each other. Check for more info: http://cdbaby.com/cd/bpcummings
[EDITOR’S NOTE: Traditional Blend is a well known traditional Irish band from the Flagstaff area that used to be known as the Cummings Duo.]
2nd Saturday, November 8th Contra Dance at Kenilworth School
Caller: Seth Levine from Phoenix
Band: Traditional Blend from Flagstaff
Location: 1210 N. 5th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003, map:
http://www.pfotm.org/kenilworthmap.html
Time: 7:30 – 10:30 pm with a free lesson at 7:00 pm
Cost: $7 for PFOTM Members/Students; $9 for Public; $3 for Dancers under 18 years**
Note: Be prepared for a good time!
Burn The Calories Contra Dance, Friday, November28th at the Irish Cultural Center
Caller: Peg Hesley
Band: ClusterFolk
Location: 1106 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85004, map:
http://www.pfotm.org/irishmap.html
Time: 7:30 pm – 10:00 pm (No Lesson)
Cost: $7 all dancers
Note: This dance takes the place of the regular 4th Wednesday Dance. Thanksgiving Goodies provided by dancers! Parents are responsible for childcare. The Irish Cultural Center has a new wood floor, please wear soft-soled non-scuffing dance shoes!
----------------------------------------------------
--- TUCSON
----------------------------------------------------
Tucson is hosting the “Dance in the Desert” this weekend at the Triangle Y Ranch Camp:
Only an hour and a half from Tucson and two hours from Phoenix, the Triangle Y Ranch Camp is located in the northern foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains. At a 5000 foot elevation, the camp's 400 acres provide beautiful scenery and ample facilities. Dance on our custom-made, resilient wood floor, and enjoy the amazing view of the San Pedro river valley from the new dining hall. Hike and explore the surrounding Coronado National Forest in the Arizona sunshine.
Check-in opens at 4:00 p.m.on Friday the 9th. Camp begins with supper, followed by a dance. Start Saturday with a hearty breakfast, then prepare for a full day of workshops for dancers, singers, and musicians. Saturday night’s gala dance will be followed by late night jamming & dancing. Sunday morning features more music and dance, and the weekend concludes with a dance after lunch. Camp closes at 4:00.
For registration information, check
http://tftm.org/ditd08/regiditd2008_no_EBS.html
[SPECIAL NOTE: Dave Black, a Phoenix contra dancer, needs a ride to Dance In The Desert this coming Friday 7th. He will be available all day Friday for pick-up in Phoenix. If you are able to offer him a ride to the weekend dance please e-mail him directly at dream10der@hotmail.com or call him at 602.810.0023.]
5. AN IRISH LANGUAGE WORKSHOP DEC 5 TO 7 AT ICC
On Friday, December 5, Saturday, December 6 and Sunday, December 7, 2008, The Irish Cultural Center located at 1106 North Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85004 will be presenting an Irish language workshop.
Cost for the three day workshop is only $110 or $100 if you pre-register before November 15.
December 5, Friday: Enjoy an evening of Storytelling from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. hosted by Walter Stock. This is included in the workshop weekend fee. If you would like to attend only the storytelling, there will only be a $5 fee at the door.
December 6, Saturday: Irish Workshop from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. taught by Walter and Maureen Stock. All levels welcome with a focus on Beginning and Intermediate.
December 7, Sunday: Irish Workshop continued. 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
(The cost for one day only for either Saturday or Sunday is $65.For Sun
day only must have some knowledge of Irish)
Walter Stock is a retired adjunct assistant professor of Irish Gaelic at NYU. He has been teaching Irish for over 30 years. Maureen is a retired NY City schoolteacher and reading specialist. She has been teaching Irish for 25 years and specializes in teaching Irish to children. Walter and Maureen give the Irish Language Oral Exams for both Vassar College in New York and our own U of A.
Don't miss the chance to learn from these two fine teachers! You WILL come away with Cúpla Focal!
Please contact Vicki Champion for registration or for more information at
(623) 680-1711 or kelticwish7@yahoo.com
For further information, please call (602) 258-0109 or check www.azirish.org.
6. BRIGHT SPOTS FOR MUSIC THIS WINTER
George O’Brien - Arizona Irish Music Society
After a fall deluge of concerts and special event, winter seems pretty sedate. However, there are some real bright spots to look forward to.
--- IRISH ACOUSTIC MUSIC SHOWCASE EACH SAT AT LIS DOON VARNA
Our new Irish Acoustic Music Showcase at Lis Doon Varna, (16100 N. Arrowhead Fountain Center Peoria 623-979-0730) will continue this winter. Every Sat afternoon, Arizona acoustic musicians are being featured. Some of the bands featured so far include Inish, Greg La Coasse, Iain Walinck, Four Shiliings Short, with others scheduled as of this article including the Strand (Nov 8), Trotters Wake (Nov 15), and Malcolm Harris (Dec 6). Part of every program is the “house band” we call the Lis Doon Varna Players featuring Jim and Voni McCrea, Mark Clark, Chris Floyd (formerly of Paddy’s Peg Leg), and myself.
Entering the holiday season, there will two major touring acts, a big dance show and the annual winter solstice party.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
--- FRI, NOV 28, 2008 - CELTIC THUNDER - DODGE THEATER
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Door 7:00 PM / Show 8:00 PM
Dodge Theater
400 West Washington
Phoenix, AZ 85003
602-379-2800
If the name “Celtic Thunder” sounds familiar, it is because this collection of vocalists was featured on a PBS special showin several months ago. This group was put together by Phil Coulter and provides a wide variety of styles.
PAUL BYROM – Born 1979 and raised in Dublin, Ireland, the tenor has been singing professionally since his teens, recording as a boy soprano at the age of 14. Byrom released his first solo album "Velvet," a collection of songs from the American Matinee era in 2005, and has performed all over the world.
GEORGE DONALDSON – A well-established singer in the vibrant Glasgow and West of Scotland folk scene, the Scotsman has performed in folk sessions for BBC Scotland, Glasgow’s own Celtic Connections, the Glasgow West End Festival and at the famed Glasgow Barrowlands. A self-taught musician, Donaldson plays guitar, flute, mandolin, bodhrán and banjo, and has played alongside folk artists including Jim McCann and the Dubliners, across Europe, America and Canada.
KEITH HARKIN – The singer/songwriter/guitarist from Derry, Northern Ireland has been singing since he was 4 years old. Harkin played the lead in BBC’s "Dhá Theanga" (2006) and also composed and recorded songs for the show, and has supported John Martyn and David Kitt in concert. Harkin is has his own album in the works and plays frequently in London.
RYAN KELLY – Hailing from the Moy village in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, Kelly began singing at the age of seven in choirs. Actively involved in amateur dramatics, he played the lead in a production of "Blood Brothers" and Judas Iscariot in "Jesus Christ Superstar." Kelly performed alongside Simply Red in the BBC televised "Children in Need" charity concert at the Odyssey in Belfast, and finished second in the BBC television "Country Cool" competition in 2003.
DAMIAN MCGINTY – The youngest member of the group at age 14, McGinty lives and attends grammar school in Derry, Northern Ireland. Winning his first singing competition at the age of six, McGinty recently recorded a gospel CD, and performs in the City of Derry Choir, his local church choir, and the drama society. He has recorded a 14-track charity CD and performed at concerts for the Red Cross.
Additional Performers: Phil Coulter (conductor); Zara Curtis (dancer); Megan Sherwood (cello); Brendan Monaghan (whistles, pipes, guitar, bodhrán); Dave Cooke (keyboards); Neil Byrne (guitar, backing vocals); Nigel Wheatley (bass, backing vocals); Rory McCarron (drums); Audrey Bridgeman (percussion); The Celtic Concert Orchestra led by Niccola Sweeney; Bagpipes/Drums: Andrew Carlisle, Shane Culleton, Chris Mc Nicholl, David Stone, Mark Wilson; Monks: Alex Browne, Ian McKinley, Greg Howie, Killian Buckley, Andy Lawler.
www.wliw.org
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
--- TEADA’S IRISH CHRISTMAS IN AMERICAN (TUCSON SAT 29)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Fox Theater
17 W Congress AZ 85701
520 624 1515 http://foxtucsontheatre.eventinterface.com/fox/
"Irish Christmas In America" Brings Ireland's Top Young Stars To Tucson”
Award-winning Irish band Téada and vocalist Cara Dillon headline holiday performance at Fox Theatre Nov 29
"Captivating" Irish Music Magazine
"Lively and reflective...a powerful evocation of the season" Folk Wax
"A celebration of family and good times at the winter season"
Gather.com
Now in its fourth year, Irish Christmas in America returns to the USA this holiday season with some of Ireland's top young traditional artists, in a spellbinding presentation of Irish cultural traditions. The performance makes its only Arizona performance on Saturday, November 29, 8:00pm at Tucson's Fox Theatre, located at 17 West Congress Street. Tickets and information are available online at www.foxtucsontheatre.org, or by phone at (520) 547-3040.
Called "captivating" by Irish Music Magazine and "a powerful evocation of the season" by Folk Wax, Irish Christmas in America is produced by Oisín Mac Diarmada of award-winning traditional Irish group Téada. Cara Dillon, one of Ireland's leading female vocalists, joins the show for the 2008 tour. The cast also includes Téada band members Damien Stenson on flute, Sean McElwain on guitar and Tristan Rosenstock on bodhrán (Irish drum) and narration. The magic of the Irish harp and pipes, from leading exponents Gráinne Hambly and Tommy Martin, augments the exciting Irish dancing of newcomer Brian Cunningham.
Irish Christmas in America takes the spirit of Christmas on a distinctively Irish journey. The celebrated family-friendly performance features Irish ballads and holiday carols, lively fiddle tunes and thrilling Irish dancing. The cast brings to life seasonal customs and stories both heartfelt and humorous, and a backdrop of evocative photographic images of Ireland gives a rich historical context.
"One of the most heartfelt themes of Irish Christmas is emigration," says Oisín Mac Diarmada (pronounced O-shin Mac Der-metta), an All-Ireland fiddle champion from County Sligo. "Music was a way that people stayed close to home."
Mac Diarmada and his band Téada (pronounced "tay-da," meaning "strings" in Irish) are one of Irish music's leading exponents, preserving the timeless energy of traditional jigs, reels and hornpipes. Living Tradition Magazine calls them "brilliant young musicians who present Irish music as it really is: the joy of it, the full breadth and depth of it, the power and pace of it."
Multi-award winning singer and recording artist Cara Dillon is praised by the BBC for "her crystalline, angelic voice…an instrument of rare beauty." An All-Ireland champion vocalist, her gentle charm and natural personality combine with a mesmerizing gift to relate a story through song.
"Christmas was a really special holiday in my family," says Dillon, who grew up in an area steeped in traditional music in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland. "There was plenty of house-visiting which inevitably led to songs or tunes. You couldn't go up the main street of the town without hearing music sessions in the bars. Christmas is always a great excuse to have a tune or song with friends!"
"I'm really looking forward to working with Téada," Dillon adds, who joins the tour for the first time this year. "They are an amazing, vibrant bunch of fellas with one goal only...to make great music!"
23-year old dancer Brian Cunningham is also a new feature of the show this year. From Connemara, County Galway, Brian is one of the most exciting 'sean-nós' or 'old-style' dancers to have emerged from Ireland in quite some time. Pronounced "shawn-nohs," it's an older style of dance that includes percussive steps and self-expressive improvisation, every bit as entertaining (if not more so!) than classic competition-style step dance.
A bright new tradition among holiday events, Irish Christmas in America is a special show to catch this season. For more information visit www.irishchristmasinamerica.com.
******************
"Captivating" Irish Music Magazine
******************
"Irish Christmas in America is a sharing of connection grounded in music, and a celebration of family and good times at the winter season, whatever your tradition or national heritage." Kerry Dexter, Gather.com
"Lively and reflective...a powerful evocation of the season...the theme of hope and connection makes Irish Christmas in America a fine choice for the season. The audience clapped and stamped their way through a high flying Christmas reel and encore, giving a standing ovation for this holiday celebration." FolkWax
"The energy and musical mastery truly celebrates an Irish Christmas." Rhythm & Roots
"The audience loved it…the response was ecstatic" Southwest Celtic Music Assoc
------------------------------------------------------------------
--- IRISH NUTCRACKER ON SAT DEC 6 AT HORIZON HIGH SCHOOL
------------------------------------------------------------------
Dec 6 - 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM
Horizon High School
5601 E Greenway Road Scottsdale, AZ 85254
www.paradisevalleyschools.org
http://web.mac.com/celticdance/Celtic_Dance_Academy/Nutcracker_Information.html
Celtic Dance Academy Presents:-
The Irish Nutcracker
A magician with secrets, an enchanted gift, a battle with the Mouse Queen, a magical adventure through the land of Tir Na Nog where fairies, flowers and gypsies dance to Irish tunes: it must be the Irish Nutcracker. Join Clare as she experiences the classic holiday Christmas story the Irish way.
The Irish Nutcracker returns to Phoenix in 2008 after two years of standing room only crowds. New features this year are LIVE music performed by local Irish band Blackwood and a new, larger venue to accommodate the high level of interest in this exciting holiday production.
The Irish dance drama is based on the classic ballet and holiday story. All of the performers are students of the Celtic Dance Academy. The show includes performers of all ages and abilities.
Come and start your holidays off on a festive Irish note by joining us for the Irish Nutcracker.
------------------------------------------------------------------
--- WINTER SOLSTICE ON SUN DEC 21
------------------------------------------------------------------
On Sunday, December 21, 2008 The Center presents The Winter Solstice celebrations. This year’s Solstice celebrations are anticipated to draw a larger attendance than past years, particularly since celebration of the occasion falls on the evening of Sunday December 21st, and those attending won’t have to deal with normal rush hour traffic. Solstice, now as in ancient times, marks the longest night of the year, whereby the Sun is at its lowest elevation in the sky. The return of the Sun from its most southern position on the horizon has always been of great ceremonial significance, in addition to serving as a celestial clock. In Phoenix the occasion is marked by music and poetry. Ribbons are placed on the branches of the special Ribbon Tree, to spiritually unite us with those no longer here. A parade from the hunger memorial on site takes us to the bonfire where the Grove of the Rising Phoenix shares their ritual traditions. This year, the customary special Irish dinner, prepared by Chef Frank will be served starting at 4:00 p.m.
Note, that reservations for the food are required, call 480-242-3500. Outside ceremonies start at sunset (5:25 p.m.) Inside the Great Hall there will be traditional Irish music. COST: $12. includes dinner. $6.00 for presentations only. Outside ceremonies start at sunset (5:25 p.m.)
Solstice, now as in ancient times, marks the longest night of the year, whereby the Sun is at its lowest elevation in the sky. The return of the Sun from its most southern position on the horizon has always been of great ceremonial significance, in addition to serving as a celestial clock. In Phoenix the occasion is marked by music and poetry. Ribbons are placed on the branches of the special Ribbon Tree, to spiritually unite us with those no longer here. A parade from the hunger memorial on site takes us to the bonfire where the Grove of the Rising Phoenix shares their ritual traditions. )
WHAT: Solstice celebrations
WHERE: Irish Cultural Center, 1106 N. Central Ave., Phoenix.
WHEN: Saturday December 21nd, starting 4:00 p.m.
COST: $12. includes dinner. $6.00 for presentations only.
The Winter Solstice is the shortest day of the year and has special significance in Irish history. "The Megalithic Passage Tomb at Newgrange was built about 3200 BC. The passage and chamber of Newgrange are illuminated by the winter solstice sunrise. A shaft of sunlight shines through the roof box over the entrance and penetrates the passage to light up the chamber. The dramatic event lasts for 17 minutes at dawn from the 19th to the 23rd of December". www.knowth.com/newgrange.htm.
Solstice, now as in ancient times, marks the longest night of the year, whereby the Sun is at its lowest elevation in the sky. The return of the Sun from its most southern position on the horizon has always been of great ceremonial significance, in addition to serving as a celestial clock. In Phoenix the occasion is marked by music and poetry. Ribbons are placed on the branches of the special Ribbon Tree, to spiritually unite us with those no longer here. A parade from the hunger memorial on site takes us to the bonfire where the Grove of the Rising Phoenix shares their ritual traditions. The occasion now as in ancient times marks the longest night of the year. For people living in Ireland, this could mean having darkness for as many as seventeen hours. So it is understandable why the first farmers who arrived Ireland over 5,000 years ago, so eagerly awaited evidence from within the passage tomb called Newgrange, in county Meath, for signs that the sun had started to return from it's annual southern migration. The penetration of light from the rising sun into the central chamber at Newgrange on December 21 had great ceremonial significance for the Irish and others in pre-historic times, in addition to serving as a precise celestial clock for those early farmers.
Songs and poetry illuminate the longest night of the year. The vigil fire illuminates the monument, An Gorta Mor. We proceed to the Ribbon Trees and honor those no longer here to enjoy the fruits of life. By placing ribbons on the branches of this special tree(s), those dearest to us, but who are no longer here, can rest in knowing that their passing and suffering will long be remembered by those of us who care. Afterwards, the firelight guides us to the Great Hall where we feast and enjoy the music of our heritage.
To help raise funds and food for the needy, we will be placing ribbons on the "Ribbon Tree" being introduced for the first time this year. Also, those wishing to drop off non-perishable food items at the Irish Cultural Center may do so between now and the Solstice event on the evening of December 21 st .
This year, the Irish Cultural Center welcomes Grove of the Rising Phoenix, a Ár nDraíocht Féin (ADF) affiliate located in Arizona. They will present a Winter Solstice ceremony celebrating the return of the light.
7. BEOGA 1ST TUCSON APPEARANCE, 1ST ARIZ TOUR SAT., FEB. 28
8:00 pm
Sat, Feb 28, 8:00 pm
Berger Performing Arts Center
1200 W. Speedway.
With guests: Tir Conaill Academy of Irish Dance.
Beoga (Irish word for ‘lively’) are a five-piece traditional band based in County Antrim, Ireland. The band was drawn together after ‘jamming’ in a ferocious session at the All-Ireland Fleadh in August 2002. Their unique sound features the twin duelling accordions of Seán Óg Graham and Damian McKee, along with four times All-Ireland bodhrán champion Eamon Murray and pianist Liam Bradley. In 2005, Beoga were nominated by Irish Music Magazine for the best traditional newcomer’s award. With the addition of one of Ireland’s premier young singers, Niamh Dunne--also on fiddle, Beoga are confirming their reputation as one of the most exciting acts to emerge from Ireland in recent years.
The bedrock of Beoga’s music lies firmly within the Irish tradition, but they are not afraid to incorporate other genres’ nuances into their music. From bluesy riffs to Astor Piazzola-style jazz, to a New Orleans jamboree vibe, their music always returns to a wonderfully bouncy traditional sound. With a repertoire of fresh self-penned tunes and inventive arrangements, their debut album 'a lovely madness' earned 9/10 in Ireland’s Hot Press music magazine and was one of the Top Trad/Folk Albums of the year.
The group’s 2007 release 'Mischief’ received excellent reviews across the board, including a phenomenal 9.5/10 rating from Hot Press. The album is tipped by Irish Music Magazine and US based ‘The Celtic Connection’, among others, as a contender for 2007 album of the year. The Chicago American Times proclaims “super vocals, a terrific staccato beat to the rhythm, with a real sense of style and wit." The Irish Echo describes Beoga as “perhaps the most audacious band today” ranking them with Irish group Grada, as the two most promising bands launched in the new millennium.
Beoga has played at the Boston, Kansas and Milwaukee Irish Festivals, the Guinness Irish Christmas tour of Austria, the Irish Folk Festival tour of Germany along with Solas and Kevin Burke, and the Irish Unplugged Tour of Holland with the Fureys and Davey Arthur.
Top dancers from the Tir Conaill Academy of Irish Dance will join Beoga on some of their instrumental sets.
ALL SEATS RESERVED. $20; $18 seniors over 60 and TFTM members, Tickets available now on line, with seat selection, at www.inconcerttucson.com. Door ticket price $23, $21 for seniors and TFTM. Info. and disability seats call Don Gest at 981-1475.
Tickets also available, with no fee, at:
Antigone Books, 411 N. 4th Ave and the Folk Shop, 2525 N. Campbell
8. THIS WEEK IN IRISH MUSIC
PHOENIX
Michael McClanathan will be at the Westin Kirland every evening at sunset.
--- WED
Paul Knight will be at Into The Bean on Wed.
Scott Jeffers will be at the Dubliner on Wed
--- THUR.
Shay Veno and Jane Hilton will be at Tim Finnegans on Thursday
Tom Teven will be at Seamus McCaffrey’s on Thursday.
FRI/SAT
D’Arcy McGee’s will host JG Modrocker on Fri and Booya on Sat
Bill Craig will be the Dubliner on Fri and Sat.
Keltic Cowboys will be at Fibber Magee’s on Fri and Sat
The Irish You A Merry Christmas will be on Fri and Sat at the ICC
Pat McCrossan will be at the Lis Doon Varna on Fri and Sat
Molly Brannigan’s will host Christ Alcaraz on Fri
The Biffos will be at Rosie McCaffrey’s will be at Rosie McCaffrey’s on Fri and Sat.
Rula Bula will host Shawn Johnson on Fri and Sat
Seamus McCaffrey’s will host Krystal Baker on Fri and Tom Teven on Sat.
Skeptical Chymist will host “There Is That” on Fri and Sat
Tim Finnegans will host Shirley’s Temple on Fri and Smoot Mahooty on Sat.
--- SAT ONLY
The Muses will be at the Irish Cultural Center on Sat afternoon
The Strand will be at Lis Doon Varna on Sat afternoon
Muses at Chandler Downtown Library on Sat afternoon
There will be a contradance at the Kenilworth School on Sat evening featuring music by Traditional Blend.
Rick Cyge will be at will be at Pier 54 on Sat evening
--- SUN ONLY
The Muses will be at the Sunset Branch of the Chandler Library on Sun afternoon
-------------------------------------------------
TUCSON
-------------------------------------------------
Trevor Jones will be at the Arena Sports Grill in Maricopa on Thursday
-------------------------------------------------
PRESCOTT
-------------------------------------------------
There will be at contradance at the Prescott Activity Center on Fri
-------------------------------------------------
SEDONA
-------------------------------------------------
Karl Jones will be at Indian Gardens on Sun and the Martini Bar on Mon.
-------------------------------------------------
OTHER
-------------------------------------------------
Vyktoria Pratt Keating will be at the Oak Creek Vinyards on Sat and Sun afternoons.
The Muses will be at Graham Center in Safford on Wed
1. PHOENIX
Chandler Downtown Library
22 S Delaware St
Chandler
480-782-2803
|
11/8/2008 | Sat | 1:00 PM
| Muses
|
Chandler Libaray - Sunset Branch
4930 W Ray Rd
Chandler
480-782-2840
|
11/9/2008 | Sun | 1:00 PM
| Muses
|
D'Arcy McGee's
2000E Rio Salado
Tempe
480-650-7435
|
11/7/2008 | Fri | 9:00 PM
| J G Modrocker
|
|
11/8/2008 | Sat | 9:00 PM
| Booya
|
Dubliner Irish Pub
3841 E. Thunderbird Rd.
Phoenix
602-867-0984
|
11/5/2008 | Wed | 9:00 PM
| Scott Jeffers
|
|
11/7/2008 | Fri | 9:00 PM
| Bill Craig
|
|
11/8/2008 | Sat | 9:00 PM
| Bill Craig
|
Fibber Magees
1989 W. Elliott Rd. #19
Chandler
480-722-9434
|
11/7/2008 | Fri | 9:00 PM
| Keltic Cowboys
|
|
11/8/2008 | Sat | 9:00 PM
| Keltic Cowboys
|
|
11/9/2008 | Sun | 4:00 PM
| Fibber Magee's Sunday Afternoon Seisiun
|
Irish Cultural Center
1106 N. Central Avenue
Phoenix
602-392-7850
|
11/5/2008 | Wed | 7:00 PM
| Irish Foundation - Monthly Meeting
|
|
11/6/2008 | Thu | 8:00 PM
| Grove of the Rising Phoenix Meeting
|
|
11/7/2008 | Fri | 6:00 PM
| Irish You A Merry Christmas
|
|
11/8/2008 | Sat | 10:00
| Irish You A Merry Christmas
|
|
11/8/2008 | Sat | 8:00 PM
| Muses
|
Kenilworth School Auditorium
1210 N. 5th Ave
Phoenix
520-369-0299
|
11/8/2008 | Sat | 7:00 PM
| Contradance - Phoenix
|
Lis Doon Varna
16100 N. Arrowhead
Peoria
623-979-0730
|
11/5/2008 | Wed | 7:00 PM
| Seisiun at Lis Doon Varna
|
|
11/7/2008 | Fri | 9:00 PM
| Pat McCrossan
|
|
11/8/2008 | Sat | 1:00 PM
| Strand
|
|
11/8/2008 | Sat | 9:00 PM
| Pat McCrossan
|
Molly Brannigan's Irish Pub
1744 S. Val Vista Dr -
Mesa
480-507-7827
|
11/7/2008 | Fri | 9:00 PM
| Chris Alcaraz
|
Pier 54
5394 S. Lakeshore Dr
Tempe
480-820-0660
|
11/8/2008 | Sat | 6:00 PM
| Rick Cyge
|
Rosie McCaffrey's
906 E. Camelback
Phoenix
602-241-1916
|
11/7/2008 | Fri | 9:00 PM
| Biffos (O'Carroll's Gate)
|
|
11/8/2008 | Sat | 9:00 PM
| Biffos (O'Carroll's Gate)
|
Rula Bula
401 S. Mill Ave
Tempe
480-929-9500
|
11/7/2008 | Fri | 9:00 PM
| Shawn Johnson
|
|
11/8/2008 | Sat | 9:00 PM
| Shawn Johnson
|
Seamus Mc Caffrey's
18 W. Monroe
Phoenix
602-253-6081
|
11/6/2008 | Thu | 9:00 PM
| Tom Teven
|
|
11/7/2008 | Fri | 9:00 PM
| Krystal Baker
|
|
11/8/2008 | Sat | 9:00 PM
| Tom Teven
|
Skeptical Chymist
15688 N. Pima Ftw
Scottsdale
480-609-8677
|
11/7/2008 | Fri | 9:00 PM
| There Is That
|
|
11/8/2008 | Sat | 9:00 PM
| There Is That
|
Tim Finnegans
9201 N. 29th Ave. #52
Phoenix
602-997-2323
|
11/6/2008 | Thu | 9:00 PM
| Shay Veno
|
|
11/7/2008 | Fri | 9:00 PM
| Shirley's Temple
|
|
11/8/2008 | Sat | 9:00 PM
| Smoot Mahooty
|
|
11/9/2008 | Sun | 1:00 PM
| Tim Finnegan's Seisiun
|
2. TUCSON
Arena Sports Grill
20800 N John Wayne
Maricopa
520 494-7700
|
11/6/2008 | Thu | 7:00 PM
| Trevor Jones
|
Auld Dubliner
800 East University
Tucson
520-206-0323
|
11/9/2008 | Sun | 4:00 PM
| Tucson Irish Seisiun
|
Rincon Market
2513 East Sixth St.
Tucson
|
11/11/2008 | Tue | 7:00 PM
| Celtic and Old Time Jam
|
3. FLAGSTAFF
Charly's Pub and Grill
23 N Leroux St
Flagstaff
928-779-1919
|
11/9/2008 | Sun | 7:00 PM
| Flagstaff Irish Seisiun
|
4. PRESCOTT
Prescott Activity Center
824 E. Gurley St.
Prescott
928-445-8823
|
11/7/2008 | Fri | 7:30 PM
| Contradance - Prescott
|
5. REST OF AZ
Indian Gardens Country Store
3951 N Az-89-Alt
Sedona
928-282-7702
|
11/9/2008 | Sun | 12:00
| Karl Jones - Irish Rover
|
Martini Bar
89A at New Frontiers
Sedona
|
11/10/2008 | Mon | 9:00 PM
| Karl Jones - Irish Rover
|
Oak Creek Vineyards
1555 Page Springs Rd.
Cornville
928-649-0290
|
11/8/2008 | Sat | 1:30 PM
| Vyktoria Pratt Keating
|
|
11/9/2008 | Sun | 1:30 PM
| Vyktoria Pratt Keating
|
Safford City Graham
808 7th Ave.
Safford
928-348-3202
|
11/5/2008 | Wed | 6:00 PM
| Muses
|
This site © 2005
Arizona Irish Music Society
Info Line: 602-770-8077
