Featured Performers

One of the most difficult tasks each year is to select the 25 or 30 bands that will be invited to be a part of the featured lineup. Featured really means the hard working local and regional musicians who not only perform to a very high standard of musicianship, but in the most part also maintain a real day job. They perfect their own particular take on Celtic music, whether it be traditional, pub, rock or "whatever"; they play our local pubs, churches, retirement homes and really wherever they can get a chance to play the music that they love; and they are the foundation of NTIF, and without them we would not have a festival.

Please support your local musicians and take the time to thank them for bringing Celtic music to north Texas.

Amberhawke

Amberhawke is known for their wide variety of Celtic music and unique musical treatments - lively pub tunes guaranteed to have you singing along, stirring marches, beautifully sung ballads and toe-tapping tunes. Their arrangements vary as much as the musical selections - sing along songs share the stage with intricate four part harmonies and traditional tune sets line up next to mouth music back-ups for a sometimes surprising, always entertaining and wonderfully spirit lifting performance.

Arabesque

Arabesque is a musical duo that has been mesmerizing audiences since 2003 with their unique blend of Celtic, Arabic, Judeo-Spanish, Turkish, and other world folk traditions. Any given song can be a vehicle to take the musicians and the listeners to new places, creating spontaneous and heartfelt expressions through the blending of musical forms, ornaments, and styles. Their performances are an intelligent mix of instrumental music, storytelling, history, humor and hands-on fun.

Both hail from Norman, Oklahoma, where Miranda teaches World Music at the University of Oklahoma and Steve does archaeological survey work. They have performed at fairs, festivals, contra dances, workshops, schools, universities, and private functions throughout Oklahoma and neighboring states.

BEHAN

Irish music has always been about family – family by blood and family by friendship. Anyone in North Texas who has heard BEHAN has become an honorary member of their family. From the grandparents to the youngest grandchild, they have always encouraged audiences to join in and share their music and joy.

BEHAN includes brothers Barney, Michael, and Joe Behan with brother-in-law Joe Morris and lifelong friend Rusty George. Influences include The Clancy Brothers, The Dubliners, and The Irish Rovers. So pull up a chair and join in the fun and laughter of traditional music and song. Bring your “sing-a-long” voice!

Beyond the Pale

Beyond The Pale delivers a wild musical ride outside the boundaries of convention. Grounded in the traditional roots music of Ireland and Scotland, they'll whisk you on imaginative ventures across musical borders. Expect the unexpected as fiddle, flute, hammered dulcimer, accordion, guitar, saxophone, whistles, concertina, percussion and distinct vocal styles perform well-crafted original songs to “celticized” versions of contemporary songs ranging from Americana favorites to Texas Swing; stunning a cappella pieces to rapid-firing jigs and reels!

Beyond The Pale have been favorites at concerts and festivals for 15 years, and have just released their 5th CD, The Music Plays Me. Contact and booking information at www.beyond-the-pale.com

Boru's Ghost

A refreshing blend of acoustic rock, original compositions, complex harmonies and traditional tunes, Boru’s Ghost is modern Celtic music at its finest.

Each member of this five piece band brings not only their instruments and talents to the cause, but their personal philosophies and artistic aspirations as well. The band’s ideal is to create something unique and personal for all involved and to strike a chord in the hearts and minds of its listeners. www.borusghost.com

Bourrée Texane

Bourrée Texane plays lively French folk dances and songs from Brittany, and also southern and central France, Québec and Louisiana. Some of the songs date back to the Renaissance and the Middle Ages. Bourrée is the name of an old French folk dance. Serge Laîné: voice, hurdy-gurdy, accordion, dulcitare, crumhorn, pipes. Lisa Whatley: voice, accordion, dulcitare, fiddle, crumhorn. Heather Gilmer: voice, fiddle, vièle, crumhorn.

www.sergelaine.com/BTXSITE.html

Brothers 3

Brothers 3 is an energetic, unique band that has become an enormously popular fan favorite at music festivals and concert venues across Texas. Performing the songs and melodies from European folk tradition set in contemporary musical settings, with special emphasis on the rich musical resources of the Celts, Brothers 3 seamlessly integrates the old and the new by blending traditional songs, poetry, and instrumental tunes with Jazz, Pop, Rock, and World Beat harmonies and rhythms.

20 different instruments ranging from washboard to wind synthesizer, 6 vocal harmonies, dozens of musical styles, LOTS of drums and a unique sense of humor and fun combine with unusual musical arrangements and terrific talent. It all adds up to a terrific musical adventure!

Clandestine

Clandestine was well-known and well-loved from 1996 to 2003 for their particular brand of Texas Celtic music. Now Clandestine has re-formed with percussionist and singer Emily Dugas, fiddler Gregory McQueen, piper EJ Jones and a new member, Al Cofrin. Al adds his cittern, voice, and another set of bagpipes to the mix.

Al and EJ are joining Emily on vocals, with many songs now set in three-part harmony. Most of the group's blasting tune sets remain the same, complemented by some new ones in similar style. Clandestine released their new CD "ReD" in 2008 made up mostly of new compositions from the whole band.

Cór Gaeilge

Cór Gaeilge performs a wide range of Irish and Scottish Gaelic songs in the traditional, unaccompanied style. Organized in 1997, the group has performed at céilithe (céilís), benefits, and festivals, including the West Belfast, Northern Ireland Féile an Phobail in 1998. Cór Gaeilge performs a diverse range of songs - from hymns to drinking songs, and marches to lullabies. The group also teaches song and language, locally and at festivals, as an important element in maintaining interest in the ancient linguistic and musical heritage of the Gaels. Cór Gaeilge Texais are Jonquele Jones, Denice Brown, Marie Paddock and Michelle Tietz. www.geocities.com/corgaeilgetex/.

Fanaí

Dan Possumato (button accordion) Originally from Pittsburgh, he spent 15 years living in Europe, where he toured with four musicians from Cork in the band "Rannoch." He plays both the two row button accordion and the one row melodeon in the old "push and pull" style. Dan has spent much time playing music in the west of Ireland, which has enabled him to learn many esoteric traditional tunes, especially ones often associated with the melodeon. He recorded the well-reviewed CD "Land of Sunshine" in Ireland a few years ago, cuts from which are often played on RTÉ and other Irish radio stations. Dan lives in Portland, Oregon.

Jamie O'Brien (guitar, vocals) Growing up in a London-Irish family instilled in Jamie a love of traditional music from an early age. His formidable skills on guitar and harmony vocals have provided the backdrop for many top bands and performers over the years, and his delicate, wistful tenor voice has made him an impressive solo performer as well. Jamie now lives in Tucson, Arizona

Geoffrey the Bard

“Geoffrey the Bard” -- whose real name is Geoffrey Ricketts -- began playing the harp in 1990. He has performed at Scarborough Fair, The Texas Renaissance Festival, The Four Winds and Astroworld. He has been featured at The Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, The Nasher Sculpture Center, The Dallas Museum of Art, The Kimball Art Museum, Shakespeare in the Park and countless other places. He served four terms as an officer in The American Harp Society. He opened The Geoffrey Harp School and Harps of Avalon Celtic Music Store in 1999. He is the official harpist for WRR Radio since 2001.

Irish Rogues

The premier pub band in Dallas, the Irish Rogues have been together for 28 years, entertaining crowds with their infectious style and good humor. Besides regular gigs at Trinity Hall, the Rogues can be found at festivals, private parties and clubs all over the area at one time or another. With their ever-present song books, and their good time charm, the Irish Rogues never fail to draw a sing-along crowd. Take home a CD that can be purchased at the festival. The Irish Rogues are Earnie Taft, fiddle; John Hodgins, accordion; and Ed Macke, guitar.

Jiggernaut

Jiggernaut is not your typical Celtic band, nor are they your typical rock band. Jiggernaut is a powerful combination of Celtic, rock and folk music. Drawing from years of experience playing rock-n- roll, the rhythm section lays down a solid foundation allowing the bagpipes and vocals to soar. Passionate, energetic and always fun, Jiggernaut appeals to audiences from six to sixty, their tunes and songs tell ancient stories and teach lessons of today’s world, in a style entirely their own. What is Jiggernaut? Celtic musicians with a rock sensibility? Rock musicians with a Celtic sensibility? You be the judge...

Jigsaw

Instrumentally, Jigsaw is talent rich, blending a large variety of instruments and vocal harmonies. Kevin Alewine plays flute, guitar, mandolin, tenor banjo, whistle and sings. Peggy Fleming plays fiddle and remains the lead vocalist of the group while husband Ken Fleming plays button accordion, Anglo concertina, tenor banjo, guitar, mandolin, whistle and vocals.

As the name implies, Jigsaw interlocks multiple talents to form one of Texas’ finest ensembles playing traditional Irish music. Whether the venue is a concert, pub, festival, wedding or special event, Jigsaw is an audience pleaser.

Jim Flanagan

Jim Flanagan has been a favorite of Dallas audiences since he first performed here in the mid-90’s. He has played festivals from Milwaukee to Lake Charles, LA. He teaches classes in Irish History and Culture and in Irish Songs and Ballads at Augusta Irish Week in Elkins, West Virginia each year. Jim is working on his new CD, Songs in a New Land, (available summer 2009).

A native speaker of Irish (Gaelic), an anthropologist, and long-time resident in South Mississippi, he brings a wide range of knowledge and experiences to his songs. Contact Jim at 601-264-9173 or e-mail flanagansongs@gmail.com

Legacy

Legacy draws the rapt attention of music fanatics wherever they play. These talented multi-instrumentalists perform an extensive repertoire from the Irish tradition. Their skill is undeniable, their arrangements complex and challenging, and their performances tight and energetic. Said Dirty Linen: "This band fills the bill....a delicate combination of full-speed-ahead attack and subtle finesse." Legacy is fiddler Valerie Plested, Uillean piper Tim Britton, Justin Murphy, flute, and Don Penzien, guitar.

Legacy has released 4 CDs including their newest, Not Making Hay. Said Len Holton, Director of the Little Rock Folk Club: “Legacy are in the top flight of bands performing music from the Irish tradition, their loyal following regionally is both well-earned and well-deserved.” www.LegacyIrishMusic.com

Loescher & Kenneth

Wolf Loescher and Mark Kenneth bring together a deep passion for Celtic music and a love for ripping it up on stage. Wolf’s earnest vocals and his rhythmic bouzouki align perfectly with Mark’s tasteful and provocative accordion; while the tunes featuring Wolf’s thrumming djembe and Mark’s no-holds-barred white-hot accordion unfailingly bring people to their feet. Wolf and Mark, the undeniable on-stage energy that drove Texas Celtic rock crowd favorite Jiggernaut, now showcase their talents to the fullest in smaller, more intimate settings and stages.

Needfire

“They drew huge, wildly enthusiastic crowds, sold more CDs than anyone and were mobbed in our Autograph Alley…” (Ceili - Dallas, TX). Last year’s NTIF headliner returns! Needfire’s high energy shows and original sound are praised by music fans of all ages and critics worldwide. “One of today’s most popular Celtic rock bands.”(WBKO TV- Bowling Green, KY); "…furious toe-tappers that owe as much to the Beatles as to Celtic music." (Ink 19); "…just at ease in the rock songs as in the ballads, Needfire is fresh and explosive!" (Highlands Magazine, France); “…uplifting, invigorating”(Shotgun Reviews).

Blending soaring bagpipes, reeling Celtic fiddles, & tribal didgeridoo with modern rock guitars, bass, and drums, Texas-based Needfire invigorates vintage Irish and Scottish music with a rock & roll heart.

The Next Chapter

“Imagine the driving clack of Irish step dancing combined with whirligig finger-picking, and you get an idea of this band’s approach to music. It’s tonal sparkle that flirts with frenzy.” Award winning vocals, hammered dulcimer, fiddle, mandolin, bouzouki, and the driving rhythms of bass, guitar and bodhran pull it all together for each breathtaking set.

Recent highlights: World Bodhran Championship Festival in Ireland and winning the NM State Fair World Music Competition. The Next Chapter “serves a healthy shot of musical energy…a rich mix of tunes that race along a track faster than a bullet train.”

North Texas Caledonian Pipes & Drums

The North Texas Caledonian Pipes & Drums is a recognized leader among pipe bands in the Southwest and a major competitor throughout the United States and Canada. The Band has established this standard of excellence in performance and competition under the skillful leadership of a number of dedicated Pipe Majors; most recently that of Pipe Major Don Shannon.

Founded in the mid 1970’s, the North Texas Caledonian Pipes & Drums is dedicated to furthering the great traditions of Scottish music and culture through education and demonstration. Over the years, the Band has established a unique standard of excellence in competition. The Band’s titles have included 1st place finishes in many competitions throughout the Southwest.

The Band proudly wears the distinctive "hunting" tartan of Clan Robertson and is pleased to promote our distinctive Scottish heritage. The Band has an ongoing student orientation, dedicated to promoting programs for pipers and invites experienced drummers to audition for the corps. There are competition units in both Grades 4 and 5.

Poor Man's Fortune

Poor Man’s Fortune plays new music... no fairy tales, just fiery tunes that happen to be a century or so older than your average hip-hop jam, arranged for modern ears and played on traditional instruments with verve and exuberance. Poor Man’s Fortune plays old music... dance music, happy music, sad music. Toe-tapping music that’s been around awhile. Poor Man’s Fortune plays unique music... Jigs & gavottes, ridées and reels. A two-step in four time and a six-step in seven. Bagpipes, flutes, fiddles, whistles, accordions, dulcitares, bombardes... delicately combined to explore the endless possibilities of old and new music alike.

Round the House

Round the House excites audiences with spirited, innovative arrangements of Irish music sparked with rhythm, lilt and drive. Their stage performances feature high energy tunes, songs of compelling intensity, and a chance that spontaneity might just occasionally overrule authenticity. As a dance band they have an exciting and dynamic style that propels dancers across the floor. This unique blend has won over audiences for more than ten years throughout the southwest- Round the House been recognized for six years running as the "Best Traditional Music" band in the Tucson area.

The band's third CD, Safe Home, was released in 2007. Said Dirty Linen: "As so many bands have proven in recent years, a setting of green hills and cool mists is no longer a requirement for playing good Irish musicŠ Lively fiddle-driven tune setsŠnatural unforced sopranoŠ.commendable!"

Their first east coast tour in 2008 introduced them to many enthusiastic new listeners and an encore tour is planned for 2009. Round the House showcases Dave Firestine on mandolin and bouzouki, Sharon Goldwasser on fiddle, Mark Robertson-Tessi on guitar and Claire Jamieson Zucker on vocals and bodhran.

"Scottish" Rogues

During their 15-year history The Rogues have produced eight albums and a DVD. Two of their most critically acclaimed CDs appear in the Grammy Book a combined total of six times. More recently The Rogues have continued to show their quality and versatility by expanding into the symphonic realm. In 2007 the band was invited to perform as a Guest Artist with the United States Air Force Symphony Orchestra in Washington, DC. Their newest album, American Highlander, was selected as an outstanding recording for inclusion on Dirty Linen's 'Editor's Choice' sampler CD.

Seamus Stout

Your pint has never tasted as good as it does with Seamus Stout. This “upbeat Celtic” group has established themselves in the North Texas area over the last seven years as a crowd favorite at many area festivals and pubs. With Jan (pronounced “Yon”) at Fiddle and Mandolin, Jarrod at Whistle and Irish Flute, Cory at Guitar, Damon at Bodhran and all singing, these guys provide a lively set that will keep your toes tapping, your hands clapping and a smile on your face. From the first jig to the last reel, you’ll love your pint of Seamus Stout!

Shift

Shift is among the new generation of traditional Irish bands who are ushering in powerful and innovative musical performances. All three members of the Dallas and Fort Worth-based band have backgrounds in traditional music and lend their talents to this trio’s expressive blend of tunes and songs. Jason Huntley’s fiddle tears through fast-paced instrumentals, while taking on melancholic tones for slow airs and songs. The intricate guitar work of Emily Bryant provides the rhythmic undertone that sets the mood for the band. The thunder of the traditional Irish bodhran is brought to life by Scottish drummer Craig Scotland.

Threadneedle Street

If you’re looking for great, traditional instrumental Celtic music, look no further. You’ve found it here on Threadneedle St! This lively quartet delivers terrific toe-tapping dance music from all the Celtic nations. Come and join Peggy Turner, Jim Brunke, Bobby Bush and Melina Shaffer as they take you on a musical tour from the Shetlands to Bretagne. Dancers always welcome!
 
  
 
 


 
 

Trinity River Whalers

A pub band extraordinaire, The Trinity River Whalers sound has been described as madcap Celtic folk/grass. Randy Christian and Micheal Price teamed with Kathleen Jackson on upright bass and Marj Troyer on lead guitar in 2004. Randy added accordion to his array of instruments (harmonica, pennywhistle and percussion), Marj picked up the mandolin, and they haven’t looked back. Their 5th CD is due to be released in spring of 2009.

Tullamore

Now in their thirteenth season, Tullamore is one of the Heartland's premiere Celtic bands. Mark Clavey, Mary Hanover, and Rachel Gaither deliver the music of Ireland and Scotland in rich and clear vocals, tight harmonies and instrumentals, and cool and clever arrangements. The Kansas City trio draws from diverse musical experiences and influences for their hallmark sound - contemporary American-folk body and traditional Celtic soul. Across the country and across the ocean, from arts-centers and theatres to Irish Festivals and Scottish Highland Games, Tullamore draws rave reviews from their audiences everywhere they go.