Session Obsession

March is always a crazy month for us Vermont Irish musicians. It’s usually when we play the most gigs, have the most Irish concerts to attend, and it’s when we get the most snow, making it a challenge to get to said gigs and concerts. But I won’t complain because it’s also the most fun.

Here are some highlights on what’s to come in the next few weeks:

Friday, March 10

Event: House Concert with Nuala Kennedy & Eamon O’Leary
Where: 1060 Bent Hill Red, Braintree, VT 05060
When: March 10 at 7:30pm
Cost: Tickets are $20 advance/ $25 day of show. Checks should be made out to Nuala Kennedy and sent c/o Beth Telford 1060 Bent Hill Red, Braintree, VT 05060. Potluck dessert and beverages.

Long time friends and musical collaborators, Nuala Kennedy and Eamon O’Leary have toured together widely, both in duo and as part of The Alt, with celebrated Irish guitarist John Doyle. Both are internationally recognized members of the traditional music community, noted for their instrumental skills and diverse repertoire of traditional and contemporary song. Both are songwriters, who love and research traditional Irish/Scottish songs. With an engaging stage presence and understated virtuosity, they present a timeless selection of songs and instrumentals. Nuala and Eamon offer tunes and songs that range from the ancient Irish tradition to reflections on the present day, a concert experience you will long remember.

Saturday, March 11

Event: Irish Showcase to Honor Senator Patrick Leahy
Where: Saint Michael’s College, McCarthy Arts Center Recital Hall, 18 Campus Rd, Colchester, VT
When: March 11 from 4-6PM
Cost: Free but you must register for tickets as there is limited seating. Register here.

In honor of Senator Patrick Leahy’s extensive tenure in the US Senate, the Burlington Irish Heritage Festival will present an Irish cultural showcase hosted at St. Michael’s College by the Fine Arts Department. The showcase will include a variety of Vermont-based performers, including musicians, dancers and poets, will present a rich sampling of Irish cultural traditions for Senator and Mrs. Leahy at the St. Michael’s College McCarthy Arts Center Recital Hall. View the program.

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Event: Cherish the Ladies
Where: Barre Opera House
When: March 11 at 7:30pm
Cost: $25-42. Buy tickets.

Their show is a wonderful blend of the old and the new. Irish songs, lively jigs and reels and heart-wrenching slow airs transport the listener on an enchanted musical journey. Cherish the Ladies make centuries-old music their own with music that has been passed down from generation to generation enhancing it with tasteful new arrangements and talented renditions.

Sunday, March 12

Event: Community Ceili Hosted by the Garrett School of Irish Dance
Where: Richmond Free Library Community Room, 201 Bridge Street, Richmond, VT
When: March 11 at 7:30pm
Cost: Suggested donation: $8 for individuals, $5 for students/seniors, $20 for family

An afternoon of live traditional Irish music and dance, this ceili (community celebration) will feature the traditional social dances of Ireland, along with a few special performances and live music by local Irish band One More Time. Dances will be taught on the day ,and all are welcome to participate! No experience and no partner needed. Please bring clean, soft-soled shoes and join us for an afternoon of dancing, music, and fun for all ages!

For More Events

There are lots more events happening throughout the coming weeks. Visit The Burlington Irish Heritage Festival website for a complete list.