Showcases at Milwaukee Irish Fest have highlighted the music and culture of various regions and topics of the Celtic world. Read about each showcase's theme and browse the featured musical acts below.
Music of the Generations (2005)
The Celtic Roots stage made its debut in 2005 to celebrate the influence of Irish culture on American popular music. The stage featured Irish and Irish American entertainers carefully chosen to represent a snapshot of American popular music throughout the generations. Many performers combined learning and entertainment for a fun, interactive and new Milwaukee Irish Fest experience.
1st Brigade Band, The/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/IFPH00557.JPGIn 1864 eighteen men from the Brodhead Brass Band enlisted in the Union Army as the band of the 1st Brigade, 3d Division, 15th Army Corps. They left their rural Wisconsin homes to participate, under the command of General William T. Sherman, in the campaigns of Northern Georgia and the Carolinas. The "Tradition of Excellence" that these men established, more than 130 years ago lives on today with the members of Wisconsin's 1st Brigade Band.0/Scrapbook_Artists/1st-Brigade-Band-The.htm1st Brigade Band, The2015-08-03T12:11:42.65300
Bing Crosby, A Tribute to /Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/200500166.JPG0/Scrapbook_Artists/Bing-Crosby-A-Tribute-to-1.htmBing Crosby, A Tribute to 2015-07-24T13:33:15.13700
George M. Cohan Revue/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/200500165.JPG0/Scrapbook_Artists/George-M.-Cohan-Revue1.htmGeorge M. Cohan Revue2015-07-24T13:34:09.64700
Kincaid, David/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2011003317.JPGAn Irish-American musician of note in the rock community, David brings to life the compelling story of the Irish in the Civil War. Drawn to the subject due to a minor hit he had with "Gettysburg", David discovered the military roots of his family extended to his great-grandfather who died in that epic battle. It is David's belief that the Civil War changed the attitude towards that Irish in this country. His show involves Irish-American Civil War songs performed in a theatrical way, with authentic costumes and use of period instruments.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Kincaid-David1.htmKincaid, David2015-07-07T14:47:46.75300
Molsky, Bruce/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2012002197.jpgBruce Molsky stands today as one of the premier old-time fiddlers in the world, the defining virtuoso of Appalachia's timeless folk music traditions. Bruce Molsky - fiddler, banjo player, guitarist, singer – embraces the growing traditional music whether performing an ancient reel from Virginia, a waltz, or a loping cowboy ballad.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Molsky-Bruce1.htmMolsky, Bruce2015-07-07T14:49:32.37000
Nova Scotia, and particularly Cape Breton, is world renowned for its musicians, singers, and songwriters. While Irish Fest had been booking many Nova Scotia artists over the years, eight of the province’s top artists appeared at the 2006 festival, in cooperation with Eastern Entertainment Agency, Music Nova Scotia, and with financial assistance from the Nova Scotia Department of Tourism, Culture, and Heritage. In addition to individual performances, a variety of artists participated each day in a traditional Nova Scotia Kitchen Party where they were featured in one show.
Beolach/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/200600417.JPGSince getting their start at a late night session during the 1998 Celtic Colours International Festival, Beòlach has established itself as one of Cape Breton’s most exciting and innovative traditional bands. Performing a lively mix of Cape Breton, Scottish and Irish tunes, the group features Mairi Rankin (fiddle, step-dance), Wendy MacIsaac (fiddle, piano, step-dance), Patrick Gillis (guitar), Ryan J. MacNeil (pipes, whistles), and Mac Morin (piano).0/Scrapbook_Artists/Beolach1.htmBeolach2015-07-13T12:13:13.30000
Gunning, Dave/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2013011124.JPGDave Gunning is folk singer-songwriter from Pictou County, Nova Scotia. Over the span of his career, Gunning has released nine albums, received a Juno Award nomination and has been awarded two Canadian Folk Music Awards. With rich baritone voice and down-to-earth songs, the charismatic Nova Scotian chronicles the life journeys of ordinary Canadians with charm and a capacity to convey a lot in a few words. Dave won Concert of the Year from LiveIreland.com for his 2006 performances at Milwaukee Irish Fest, so this is a sure bet for an outstanding show.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Gunning-Dave1.htmGunning, Dave2015-07-07T14:59:45.98700
MacDonald, Buddy/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2013011181.JPGBuddy MacDonald has been a singer/songwriter and entertainer for more than 30 years and hails from the North Shore of Cape Breton. He was exposed at an early age to the singing and story-telling of some of the great singers of his native Island. Since Celtic Colours began in 1997, Buddy has been the host of the late night Festival Club, so you know what a great showman and great wit that he is. Given his extraordinary talent, he has performed with musicians from all over the world.0/Scrapbook_Artists/MacDonald-Buddy1.htmMacDonald, Buddy2015-07-07T15:00:52.10000
Celtic women have had a profound effect on Irish and Celtic music throughout the years, and their influence was the inspiration for the theme of the 2007 Celtic Roots Stage. The women who appeared at Milwaukee Irish Fest’s Celtic Women in Music Showcase are daughters of a musical form dating back at least to the 16th century when female ballad singers wandered the countryside singing for alms. The music has come a long way since then, sticking to its roots, yet borrowing from American and British folk and even rock music. Feminism in the 1970s and 80s helped move the music from the kitchen, where it was often performed, to the world stage and venues such as Irish Fest.
Carroll, Liz /Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2012002321.JPG<p>Chicago fiddler and composer Liz Carroll has been a part of Milwaukee Fest since the beginning. She appeared with Green Fields of America at the first festival in 1981 and performed on some of the workshop stage demonstrations. She's been back numerous times since as a solo artist, with her renowned duo with guitarist John Doyle, and as a member of other bands. Liz has also been an integral part of the Irish Fest Summer School, teaching fiddle and her tunes to hundreds of students over the years. Liz was born in Chicago of Irish parents. She's a junior and senior All-Ireland Fiddle Champion and is featured on ten albums and has appeared on many more. Liz is a recipient of the National Heritage Fellowship Award (1994). In 2010 she became the first Irish-American musician nominated for a Grammy, and in 2011, she became the first American-born composer honored with the Cumadóir TG4, Ireland's most significant traditional music prize.</p>
0/Scrapbook_Artists/Carroll-Liz---1.htmCarroll, Liz 2015-08-20T13:29:22.28300
Cherish the Ladies/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/19980014.JPGCherish the Ladies and leader Joanie Madden have been important representatives of traditional Irish music at Milwaukee Irish Fest for years. Special moments include the 2000 festival's special Fathers and Daughter shows, featuring members of Cherish the Ladies with their musician parents.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Cherish-the-Ladies1.htmCherish the Ladies2015-08-20T13:18:46.03700
Galway is known as the cultural heart of the Emerald Isle, and its distinguished entertainments and cultural contributions were the focus of the 2008 Milwaukee Irish Fest. The Galway Showcase was the result of a special partnership among: Fáilte Ireland, the country’s National Tourism Development Authority; Galway Bay FM Radio, one of Ireland’s largest independent radio stations; Minister Éamon Ó Cuív; Galway City; Galway City Council, and Údarás.
Galway is among Ireland’s most popular and fastest growing tourist destinations, and its influence infused the festival from the music on the Celtic Roots and main stages to the exhibits in the Cultural Village. Seven renowned acts from Galway highlighted the 2008 festival.
Milwaukee Irish Fest expanded its Celtic music offering with a Scottish Sampler, highlighting some of Scotland’s top emerging traditional and rock-inspired talent, many of whom made their U.S. debut. Five featured acts represented Scotland in 2008.
Atlantic Canada’s four provinces, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland/Labrador, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island, have deep roots in Celtic culture and music. As an integral part of Celtic history and influence around the world, Milwaukee Irish Fest welcomed nine entertainment acts from these Maritime Provinces to comprise the Nova Scotia and Friends Showcase in 2009.
A celebration of Irish Fest’s partnership with the Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture of the Province of Nova Scotia, the Showcase featured a fresh perspective on Celtic music, art, cultural programming and tourism with 11 tents outside the Celtic Roots Stage.
To cap off each day of the festival, the Celtic Roots stage recreated the informal, community gathering style of the Atlantic Canada kitchen party – a celebratory performance of Showcase artists on one stage.
Evans and Doherty/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/200901311.JPGKevin Evans and Brian Doherty have been an integral part of the Canadian East Coast music scene for over twenty years. Evans & Doherty perform a lively blend of traditional, original and contemporary songs, with a liberal sprinkle of stories and humor. The duos’ resonant guitars and rich harmonies have been set down on 10 CDs recorded over their 26 year career. Having been regular performers at Milwaukee Irish Fest, Evans & Doherty are one of the festival’s favorite folk music performers.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Evans-and-Doherty1.htmEvans and Doherty2015-08-20T13:22:31.15000
VishtenConsisting of 7th generation Acadians, Emmanuelle and Pastelle from Prince Edward Island, Pascal from nearby Magdelen Island on the east coast of Canada, Vishten mixes the rhythms and irresistible dance of Acadian music with climbing notes and voices. The songs are French, sung alone or in harmony, with foot percussion driving the beat. The richness of this musical heritage guarantees a high voltage show performed by native son and daughters.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Vishten1.htmVishten2015-07-07T15:20:06.71000
Northern Ireland was featured at the 2010 Milwaukee Irish Fest through a special Northern Ireland Showcase. The showcase, spread throughout the festival grounds, highlighted the culture, heritage, and music that have helped shape this country steeped in history. Northern Ireland was represented at several of the must-see venues at Irish Fest, including the Moore Street Market, The Cultural Exhibit Pavilion, Hedge School, and numerous musical stages. The Celtic Roots Stage was the main showcase stage for Northern Ireland artists.
Additional Northern Ireland attractions included:
Artisans and craftspeople displaying Celtic jewelry, GAA jerseys, fabric art from the region, and more.
An exhibit on Narnia, from the C. S. Lewis series of books.
A replica of the Titanic’s hull, which also served as an exhibit on Belfast.
Special exhibits focusing on Northern Ireland’s parliament as well as Saint Patrick’s Centre in Downpatrick and the Ulster-Scots.
Tourism representatives from several counties in Northern Ireland.
Drama Club from Bangor and the Aisling Ghear Theater from Belfast.
Kennedy, Seamus/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/200300620.JPGA native of Belfast, Ireland, Seamus Kennedy has performed throughout the United States for over 30 years, proving he is a master showman with an unmatched repertoire. A maestro among Irish troubadours, his trademark is his ongoing interaction with his audiences. Enjoy the music and mirth of one of Ireland's most popular exports.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Kennedy-Seamus1.htmKennedy, Seamus2016-08-25T17:09:25.77300
Kintra/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/20100047.JPGKintra fuses Irish and Scottish music, song and dance together in a dazzling display that focuses on the similarities of the two cultures. The 12 piece group from Donegal, Tyrone and Derry, under the Musical Direction of renowned fiddle player Matt McGranaghan, blends music, song and dance together in an exciting, colorful and fast-moving stage show. The group was formed by good friends from both communities in 2008 who wanted to create a musical experience that would highlight the shared elements of their respective cultures rather than seek out the differences.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Kintra1.htmKintra2015-07-13T14:06:43.80700
Len Graham and Brian Hart/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/201000428.jpg?Large0/Scrapbook_Artists/Len-Graham-and-Brian-Hart1.htmLen Graham and Brian Hart2015-07-13T14:09:01.94700
McPeake/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2010004227.jpgThe McPeake family of Belfast is one of the revered names in Irish music. Francis McPeake IV, is a fourth generation member of this family and one of the few authentic uilleann pipers in the world today. McPeake began life as a group of musicians who came together for special gigs and occasions. The band has a creative approach to music, blending influences from Irish traditional, folk, acoustic and country genres to make their own unique sound that is an experience for the ears and soul.0/Scrapbook_Artists/McPeake1.htmMcPeake2016-08-25T16:57:43.49700
Sweeney, Tom/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/200600423.JPGTom Sweeney, from Omagh, Northern Ireland, envelops the very essence of Irish culture into his performances. Inspired by his grandmother, the late Sarah Makem, the great ballad tradition was instilled in him from boyhood. Sweeney carries with him an endless amount of songs, stories, poetry and tunes. His shows run the gamut of emotion, fun and Irish history.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Sweeney-Tom1.htmSweeney, Tom2015-08-20T13:37:34.04000
There are certain parts of neighboring counties Derry and Donegal that are instantly recognizable. Things like Derry’s monumental walls and sculptures or Donegal’s exquisite textiles and rich fiddle tradition. These two special counties were represented at several must-see venues at the 2011 Milwaukee Irish Fest, including Moore Street Market, the Cultural Pavilion, Hedge School, and numerous musical stages. The Lakefront Brewery Celtic Roots Stage was the main showcase stage for Derry and Donegal artists.
Other showcase attractions included:
Exhibit on Beech Hill House and its importance during WWII in the Cultural Pavilion.
Ceramics, jewelry, and textiles were available for purchase in the Moore Street Market.
Award-winning films like “Paradiso” screened in the Volta Theatre in the Cultural Pavilion.
Genealogist Brian Mitchell and emigration historian Paddy Fitzgerald in the Cultural Village.
Stories of U. S. Presidential links to Ulster-Scots in the Hedge School.
Altan/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/201100332.JPGAltan is an Irish folk group formed in County Donegal in 1987. It can be argued that no Irish traditional band has had as great an impact on audiences throughout the world in the past generation as Altan. Continuing to bring the beauty and joy of traditional Irish music to its fans, an Altan show ranges from the most sensitive and touching old Irish song, all the way to hard hitting reels and jigs delivered in a heartwarming and dynamic way. The skill of the individual is exceeded by the band that has played over 25 years together through triumph and adversity and now presents that seasoned camaraderie in a very special series of shows.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Altan2.htmAltan2015-06-16T14:04:54.43300
Brendan Hendry Band/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2011003112.jpgBrendan Hendry hails from Bellaghy in South Derry and is simply one of the best fiddle players in Ireland today. Brendan’s music takes the listener from one exhilarating high point to another, with a masterfully engaging immediacy. The music speaks for itself here, just traditional music that forms the very foundation of Irish music played by a master fiddler.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Brendan-Hendry-Band1.htmBrendan Hendry Band2015-06-16T14:05:54.17300
Different Drums of Ireland/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/200100113.JPGDifferent Drums of Ireland came together in 1991 in Northern Ireland as an exercise to use art and music as a vehicle to do something positive in the community. The band uses the potent symbols of the two communities in Northern Ireland, the Lambeg drum and the bodhran, that are perceived as representing the Nationalist and Unionist cultures. The sound and passion of Different Drums of Ireland are something unique and unforgettable.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Different-Drums-of-Ireland1.htmDifferent Drums of Ireland2015-06-16T14:08:07.10300
Fidil/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/20110031143.jpgHailing from Donegal, Fidil is three extraordinary fiddle players who play timeless music without any other accompaniment. Aside from the wildly entertaining show, Fidil reminds listeners of how magnificent the fiddle can be by itself. The music is traditional, timeless Irish music played by three young masters.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Fidil1.htmFidil2015-07-24T13:39:51.30700
Henry Girls/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2012002185-1.jpgJoleen, Lorna and Karen McLaughlin are three sisters from County Donegal and are named after their local family nickname, Henry. Playing rootsy, gritty music from Donegal, the gorgeous three part harmony of the sisters has made their band one of the up and coming folk acts in Ireland.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Henry-Girls1.htmHenry Girls2015-07-13T14:39:24.18000
Kathleen Fitzgerald and The Screaming Orphans/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/20110031163.JPGKathleen Fitzgerald is regarded as one of the finest vocalists to emerge out of the Céilí band scene, performs with her four daughters who, following in their mother’s footstep formed a band that stays true to their roots in traditional Irish music with pop and rocks strains.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Kathleen-Fitzgerald-and-The-Screaming-Orphans1.htmKathleen Fitzgerald and The Screaming Orphans2015-07-24T13:40:51.98700
Kintra/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/20100047.JPGKintra fuses Irish and Scottish music, song and dance together in a dazzling display that focuses on the similarities of the two cultures. The 12 piece group from Donegal, Tyrone and Derry, under the Musical Direction of renowned fiddle player Matt McGranaghan, blends music, song and dance together in an exciting, colorful and fast-moving stage show. The group was formed by good friends from both communities in 2008 who wanted to create a musical experience that would highlight the shared elements of their respective cultures rather than seek out the differences.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Kintra1.htmKintra2015-07-13T14:06:43.80700
Liz Doherty Connection/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/20110031178.jpgCounty Donegal’s Liz Doherty is a well known fiddler, academic and educator, currently at the University of Ulster. Her PhD dissertation was on the fiddle music of Cape Breton, and, to no surprise, she is known for her distinctive fiddle style and her strong Scottish and Cape Breton influenced playing. Liz was a founding member of Nomos and Fiddlesticks and records regularly with the Bumblebees. Liz and her outstanding band impart what is best about Irish music: sheer fun and joy.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Liz-Doherty-Connection1.htmLiz Doherty Connection2015-07-24T13:41:55.83300
Screaming Orphans, The/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2015002346.JPGThe Screaming Orphans, an all-sister band from Bundoran, Co. Donegal, Ireland, are one of the most sought after Celtic bands with a powerful, award-winning sound combining their own original melodic old-school pop songs with their unique and modern take on traditional Irish music and song, inherited from their family roots. From an early age, the Diver sisters performed with their mother Kathleen Fitzgerald (a well-known céilí singer in Ireland) and when they hit their teenage years, they formed their own Celtic pop/rock band, the Screaming Orphans.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Screaming-Orphans-The1.htmScreaming Orphans, The2015-09-22T15:28:25.12000
Sweeney, Tom/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/200600423.JPGTom Sweeney, from Omagh, Northern Ireland, envelops the very essence of Irish culture into his performances. Inspired by his grandmother, the late Sarah Makem, the great ballad tradition was instilled in him from boyhood. Sweeney carries with him an endless amount of songs, stories, poetry and tunes. His shows run the gamut of emotion, fun and Irish history.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Sweeney-Tom1.htmSweeney, Tom2015-08-20T13:37:34.04000
The origin of Bluegrass music dates back to 18th century immigrants from Ireland, Scotland, England, and Wales who brought their unique ballads and tunes to the Appalachia region of the U.S. The early music had a predominant string band format dominated by fiddle, and great to include the banjo, guitar, mandolin, and autoharp. In 2012, Milwaukee Irish Fest celebrated the unique connection between Bluegrass music and Ireland with a special Bluegrass Music Showcase.
Brock McGuire Band/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2012002915.JPGTwo of Ireland’s most celebrated traditional musician’s front this exceptional band. Performing at the highest level of musicianship in Irish music, the Brock McGuire band keeps the purity of traditional music while exploring new territories. Their recent release, “Green Grass Blue Grass”, is a cross- cultural CD which celebrates the music of the Irish and Appalachian traditions.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Brock-McGuire-Band1.htmBrock McGuire Band2015-06-16T14:05:59.70000
CornmealHeavily influenced by American roots and folk music, Chicago’s Cornmeal blends lightning fast tempos and impeccable harmonies into an unrivaled live performance. While steeped in the tradition of the past, Cornmeal continues to forge their own path, pushing the boundaries of bluegrass, Americana and folk for a whole new generation of music lovers. With a rapidly growing fan base and ever-evolving sound, Cornmeal challenges the recipe of the bluegrass sound and live performance.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Cornmeal1.htmCornmeal2015-06-16T14:07:29.58700
Ebony HillbilliesAs one of the last black string bands in the U.S., and the only one currently based in NYC-the Hillbillies keep an important legacy alive with a rootsy, homegrown style that was a key element in the genesis of All American Music-Jazz, Blues, Bluegrass, Rockabilly, Rock and Roll and Country.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Ebony-Hillbillies1.htmEbony Hillbillies2015-06-16T14:08:29.46000
Fox HuntThe Fox Hunt is a West Virginia based multi-instrumentalist string-band that play traditional fiddle music and original country music. Digging deep in the well of American roots, folk, blues and traditional Irish music, The Fox Hunt and The Henry Girls live collaboration combines gritty West Virginian Americana with emerging Irish nu-folk.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Fox-Hunt1.htmFox Hunt2015-06-16T14:08:59.09000
Henhouse ProwlersWith a focus on traditional vocal harmonies, hard driving instrumentals and sincere lyrics, Chicago’s Henhouse Prowlers strive to play bluegrass the way it was meant to be played. The Prowlers perform around a single microphone and wear neatly ironed suits. The Henhouse Prowlers have gained a growing reputation for their highly original, tradition-inspired bluegrass built around intricate harmonies and electrifying stage energy.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Henhouse-Prowlers1.htmHenhouse Prowlers2015-08-20T13:25:35.62000
Henry Girls/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2012002185-1.jpgJoleen, Lorna and Karen McLaughlin are three sisters from County Donegal and are named after their local family nickname, Henry. Playing rootsy, gritty music from Donegal, the gorgeous three part harmony of the sisters has made their band one of the up and coming folk acts in Ireland.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Henry-Girls1.htmHenry Girls2015-07-13T14:39:24.18000
McCoury, Del/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2012002294.jpgFor fifty years, Del McCoury’s music has defined authenticity for hard core bluegrass fans. A living link to the days when bluegrass was made only in honkytonks and on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry, Del got his first taste of the limelight when he joined Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys in early 1963. The Father of Bluegrass moved Del from the banjo to guitar, made him his lead singer, and gave him a lifetime worth of bluegrass tutelage direct from the source. In June 2010, Del received a lifetime achievement award from the National Endowment of the Arts and in 2011 he was elected into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.0/Scrapbook_Artists/McCoury-Del1.htmMcCoury, Del2015-06-16T14:11:37.48000
Milwaukee Bluegrass All Stars The Bluegrass All Stars are a group of fun veteran musicians who's roots keep them coming back to each other and Bluegrass Music. We all started out in bluegrass, but as the years went by the siren song of other forms of music – and steadier paychecks – helped us to stretch our musicality. We bring that all back to the show along with our love of playing and singing traditional country and bluegrass. Mixing Scruggs and Crow with Hank and Haggerd seems absolutely natural to us. Our line up has ‘Cotton’ Tom Schwark on the mandolin and fiddle, Dan Nimphius on the hard drivin' banjo and dobro, Jim ’JP’ Price pickin' on the guitar, and Big Jim Meyers slappin' on the old stand up bass. When the Bluegrass All Stars turn it on you can feel the rhythm down to your toes. With four guys that love to sing, the harmonies are sweet and often and with a little coaxing we can get Cotton Tom to rattle the house with that great bass voice of his.
All of the Men have all been playing professionally on and off since the late 70's. Often times with one or another of the other pickers. The versatile JP was a founding member the outstanding Grass Food and Lodging group, playing mandolin at the time. Dan Nimphius was a founding member of Woodsong the Brew County Rounders. Cotton Thomas and Big Jim were fooling around playing the classics in the Ad Hoc Citizens Band. Later Cotton Thomas joined Dan with the Rounders after his time with Grass Food and Lodging. When the Rounders were between bass players Jim Meyers was borrowed from the Industrial Valley Rangers. So 30 years later and countless bands under our belts, I guess it was almost inevitable that we find our way back to our Bluegrass roots. The deep friendships mixed with our sense of humor keeps this show rolling. From blistering banjo breakdowns to hard core country classics, the Bluegrass All Stars do ‘em like they should be done.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Milwaukee-Bluegrass-All-Stars1.htmMilwaukee Bluegrass All Stars2015-06-16T14:11:58.22000
Molsky, Bruce/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2012002197.jpgBruce Molsky stands today as one of the premier old-time fiddlers in the world, the defining virtuoso of Appalachia's timeless folk music traditions. Bruce Molsky - fiddler, banjo player, guitarist, singer – embraces the growing traditional music whether performing an ancient reel from Virginia, a waltz, or a loping cowboy ballad.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Molsky-Bruce1.htmMolsky, Bruce2015-07-07T14:49:32.37000
O'Connor, GerryGerry O'Connor is one of Ireland's premier tenor banjo players and considered one of the best banjo players in Ireland’s history. Gerry gives a unique treatment to traditional Irish compositions and American Bluegrass along with his original compositions. He is from Dundalk, County Louth and his family has played fiddle for at least four generations.0/Scrapbook_Artists/OConnor-Gerry1.htmO'Connor, Gerry2015-06-16T14:12:39.48000
O'Donovan, Aoife/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2012002187.jpgBoston’s Aoife O’Donovan is a singer-songwriter who fronts the alt-bluegrass band Crooked Still. Aoife brings her unique take on Irish and American music performing high energy, technically skilled, innovative music. USA Today predicted that Aoife would become “the newest darling of the Americana set”, and this has been true for quite some time.0/Scrapbook_Artists/ODonovan-Aoife1.htmO'Donovan, Aoife2015-06-16T14:05:07.40300
Punch Brothers/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2012002314.JPGPunch Brothers are the New York City-based quintet of mandolinist Chris Thile, guitarist Chris Eldridge, bassist Paul Kowert, banjoist Noam Pikelny and violinist Gabe Witcher. Their new album Who’s Feeling Young Now?, produced and engineered by Jacquire King, contains some of the most exhilaratingly direct, sonically daring performances the group has ever recorded. Already, Vanity Fair has hailed the album as "their most expressive work yet as an ensemble -- sophisticated, pop-y, kinetic and profound, all at once." The New Yorker calls it "a mystical alchemy of old-time music and contemporary sensibilities" As the five members, ranging in age from their mid-20's to mid-30's, have matured together on the road and in the studio, their approach to writing and performing has, conversely, become looser, simpler, and, in a sense, more unaffectedly youthful. In fact, the title song on the new disc—featuring rumbling bass, skittering violin, and wailing multi-tracked vocals—sounds like hard-charging string-band punk rock.
The group, as virtuosic as it is freewheeling, evolved out of a 2007 collaboration on Thile's string-band suite, The Blind Leading the Blind, which premiered at Carnegie Hall in a series curated by composer John Adams. Its debut disc for Nonesuch Records, Punch, was released in 2008, followed by the Jon Brion-produced Antifogmatic (2010). The five members each have impressive resumes within the progressive string-band scene and are regularly sought-after as guest stars and session players. Punch Brothers are currently featured on the soundtrack to The Hunger Games and the Chieftains' 50th Anniversary disc, Voice Of Ages. As guitarist Eldridge notes,“Every little side project we’ve done has helped us come back to Punch Brothers with new ideas and new energy and a new sense of confidence, a righteous need to create stuff.”0/Scrapbook_Artists/Punch-Brothers1.htmPunch Brothers2015-06-16T14:13:17.45300
TeadaTéada, now firmly established as one of Irish music's leading exponents on the international world music stage, continues to be driven by a fascination with the timeless, expressive force of traditional tunes inherited from previous generations of musicians.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Teada1.htmTeada2015-06-16T14:14:45.88300
The Henry Girls and The Fox HuntThe Henry Girls are fast becoming one of the most talked about folk/roots acts to come out of Ireland in many years. Hailing from the picturesque village of Malin in the Inishowen Peninsula, County Donegal, the Henry Girls were a breakout hit at last year’s festival. Renowned for their fine close harmonies and musical arrangements, the Henry Girls will team up with The Fox Hunt for a great show of Irish and Old Timey music.0/Scrapbook_Artists/The-Henry-Girls-and-The-Fox-Hunt1.htmThe Henry Girls and The Fox Hunt2015-06-16T14:14:50.20000
Tim O'Brien and Bryan SuttonTim O’Brien is a Grammy Award winning musician and vocalist from Wheeling, West Virginia. He plays traditional folk and Bluegrass music noting the music’s roots in modal Irish ballads. Tim is a two time winner of the International Bluegrass Music Association’s (IBMA) male vocalist of the year. Joining Tim is Bryan Sutton from Asheville, North Carolina. Bryan is a six time IBMA guitar player of the year and had been an integral part of Ricky Skaggs’ band, Kentucky Thunder.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Tim-OBrien-and-Bryan-Sutton1.htmTim O'Brien and Bryan Sutton2015-06-16T14:14:54.55700
Verch, April/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2012002179.jpgJUNO Award nominated Canadian fiddler, singer, songwriter and stepdancer April Verch doesn’t just perform music, she exudes it. She’s been called a "world class fiddler" by New Grass Revival founder Sam Bush, and "one of the most versatile artists of traditional music’s new breed" by The News & Observer's Jack Bernhardt. Her music has been described as Old-Time with a side of Canada's Ottawa Valley: plucky, straight-backed Canadian tunes fit so snugly beside ancient Appalachian airs that you’d think they’d been neighbors for centuries. April performed in the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games opening ceremony, and was the first woman in history to win both of Canada’s most prestigious fiddle championships, the Grand Masters and Canadian Open. Her latest album, That's How We Run, was nominated for a Canadian Folk Music award.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Verch-April1.htmVerch, April2015-06-16T14:05:08.38700
We Banjo 3/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2013011237.JPGWe Banjo 3 made their debut at the 2012 Milwaukee Irish Fest as part of the Bluegrass showcase. The quickly became fan favorites. We Banjo 3, an award winning band from Galway, has recently exploded in the music scene. The multi-instrumentalist, all-Ireland champion group members Enda and Fergal Scahill and Martin and David Howley are internationally renowned for their incredible virtuosity and musical innovation.0/Scrapbook_Artists/We-Banjo-3.htmWe Banjo 32017-03-24T11:34:52.05000
The 2013 Milwaukee Irish Fest showcase was Nova Scotia, the Canadian province whose name means “New Scotland.” Nova Scotia is home to a unique brand of Celtic music rooted in the traditions of the 18th century Scottish immigrants who arrived there after the Highland Clearances. Guests experienced a wide variety of Celtic song and instrumental traditions of Nova Scotia in the showcase.
Guests were invited to gather ‘round as they were treated to a special Kitchen Party set during the opening night of the festival with artists from Nova Scotia. A tradition in Nova Scotia, a Kitchen Party is a musical jam session typically held at someone’s home.
Barra MacNeils, The/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/20030066.JPGThe Barra MacNeils are a Canadian musical group from Sydney Mines, Nova Scotia. The founding members of the group are siblings Sheumas, Kyle, Stewart, and Lucy MacNeil.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Barra-MacNeils-The1.htmBarra MacNeils, The2015-07-07T15:33:57.74300
Cassie and Maggie MacDonald/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2013011123.JPGBorn in Halifax, with strong roots in Nova Scotia, Cassie and Maggie MacDonald have been wowing audiences across Canada with their unique blend of original and traditional Celtic music. Cassie's fiddle playing has been described as "sweet and elegant with just the right amount of raw power" while Maggie's piano playing has an irresistible drive that will leave your foot incapable of staying still and complements Cassie's playing perfectly. Their vocal harmonies are impeccable and their step dancing exciting, showing off their youthful charm and energy. Cassie and Maggie are among the best emerging young artists on the festival scene.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Cassie-and-Maggie-MacDonald1.htmCassie and Maggie MacDonald2015-06-16T14:06:26.41700
Evans and Doherty/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/200901311.JPGKevin Evans and Brian Doherty have been an integral part of the Canadian East Coast music scene for over twenty years. Evans & Doherty perform a lively blend of traditional, original and contemporary songs, with a liberal sprinkle of stories and humor. The duos’ resonant guitars and rich harmonies have been set down on 10 CDs recorded over their 26 year career. Having been regular performers at Milwaukee Irish Fest, Evans & Doherty are one of the festival’s favorite folk music performers.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Evans-and-Doherty1.htmEvans and Doherty2015-08-20T13:22:31.15000
Gunning, Dave/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2013011124.JPGDave Gunning is folk singer-songwriter from Pictou County, Nova Scotia. Over the span of his career, Gunning has released nine albums, received a Juno Award nomination and has been awarded two Canadian Folk Music Awards. With rich baritone voice and down-to-earth songs, the charismatic Nova Scotian chronicles the life journeys of ordinary Canadians with charm and a capacity to convey a lot in a few words. Dave won Concert of the Year from LiveIreland.com for his 2006 performances at Milwaukee Irish Fest, so this is a sure bet for an outstanding show.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Gunning-Dave1.htmGunning, Dave2015-07-07T14:59:45.98700
MacDonald, Buddy/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2013011181.JPGBuddy MacDonald has been a singer/songwriter and entertainer for more than 30 years and hails from the North Shore of Cape Breton. He was exposed at an early age to the singing and story-telling of some of the great singers of his native Island. Since Celtic Colours began in 1997, Buddy has been the host of the late night Festival Club, so you know what a great showman and great wit that he is. Given his extraordinary talent, he has performed with musicians from all over the world.0/Scrapbook_Artists/MacDonald-Buddy1.htmMacDonald, Buddy2015-07-07T15:00:52.10000
Mary Jane Lamond and Wendy MacIsaac/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2013011240.JPG<p>On Cape Breton Island, the rich heritage of the region’s Highland settlers was kept alive through music, songs, and stories. Wendy is an award-winning fiddler, piano player and step dancer from Creignish, Cape Breton. Mary Jane is a Canadian musician/vocalist who possesses a gorgeous voice and an unequaled mastery of the Gaelic tongue. Their most recent album, Seinn, celebrates traditional Canadian Gaelic folk songs from Cape Breton Island and is nominated for an ECMA award for Roots/Traditional Group Recording of the Year. Great music from two of the most decorated and seasoned musicians of Cape Breton music.</p>
0/Scrapbook_Artists/Mary-Jane-Lamond-and-Wendy-MacIsaac.htmMary Jane Lamond and Wendy MacIsaac2015-07-24T13:44:39.65000
Modern Grass/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/201301134.JPGThe Modern Grass was born in early 2011 in Halifax, NS and has since released 5 albums and toured relentlessly. The group’s latest award winning album, High on the Mountain, (Music Nova Scotia country/bluegrass album of the year & roots/traditional album of the year) explores new territory in folk, roots, and bluegrass music. The Quintet is already kicking up dust in the Canadian music scene with international tour dates bringing them to Milwaukee Irish Fest to follow up on our great Bluegrass theme of 2012.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Modern-Grass1.htmModern Grass2015-07-24T13:45:41.72700
Old Man Luedecke/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2013011523.JPGOld Man Luedecke is the recording name of Juno Award-winning Canadian singer-songwriter and banjo player, Chris Luedecke, of Chester, Nova Scotia. His 2008 album, Proof of Love, won a 2009 Juno Award for traditional folk album of the year. His just released album, Tender Is the Night, gives nod to F.R. Scott Fitzgerald’s famous novel, a title lifted from John Keats poem, ‘Ode To A Nightingale’ and goes beyond his beloved solo, banjo-driven folk tunes. With skillful precision and a storyteller’s heart, Luedecke’s narrative-driven folk songs are playful, coy, and soul warming.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Old-Man-Luedecke1.htmOld Man Luedecke2015-07-24T13:46:39.49300
Sprag SessionSprag Session is five superb musicians from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. Lingering somewhere amidst the rich, soulful roots of traditional Cape Breton music and the grooves of rock and funk, Sprag Session exudes energy and virtuosity. Their unique style of Celtic fusion will have you up and participating in an old fashion Cape Breton dance party. A breakout hit at our festival in 2012, the band members have been fan favorites for years when together as The Colin Grant Band.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Sprag-Session1.htmSprag Session2015-06-16T14:14:27.64700
The 2014 Milwaukee Irish Fest featured a Scottish Music Showcase that celebrated the richness of Scotland’s diverse traditional music. While many people link Scottish music with the Highland bagpipes, it is so much more. There are wonderful ballad, harp, and fiddle traditions that stretch back many generations in Scotland. Scottish traditional music remains vibrant even as popular music flourishes in Scotland today.
Alasdair Fraser and Tony McManus/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2014002295.JPGMaster Scottish fiddler Alasdair Fraser along with Tony McManus, one of the most admired guitarists on the Celtic scene, unite their creative forces in a partnership of incredible musical power and beauty. Drawing from deep wells of tradition and technical prowess, they explore the rich range of Scottish music, from the pipe tunes and song airs of the Highlands to the music of Scotland's noted fiddler/composers such as Marshall, Skinner, and the Gows. The duo flows from the intimate and subtle nuances of a poignant Gaelic lament to a no-holds-barred fiddle flurry of strathspeys and reels, captivating audiences wherever they perform.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Alasdair-Fraser-and-Tony-McManus2.htmAlasdair Fraser and Tony McManus2015-06-16T14:04:49.18000
ALT, The/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2014002139.JPGThe ALT, the exciting new collaboration with John Doyle, Nuala Kennedy and Eamon O'Leary, is hitting the road soon and excited to debut their brand of stellar harmony singing, exquisite musicianship and arrangements and all around good craic. Each are serious collectors of songs/tunes and have each dedicated many years delving into the treasure trove of traditional Irish, Scottish and English song with some American pieces thrown in for good measure. Each member of The ALT is an instrumentalist and singer of the highest caliber - together the alchemy is peerless.0/Scrapbook_Artists/ALT-The2.htmALT, The2015-06-16T14:04:53.26300
Dallahan/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2014002285.JPGThe members of Dallahan met in Edinburgh where they shared their love of all styles of music from jazz to classical, but their love of Irish music brought them together in 2013 to create their own unique sound. Dallahan's fresh new sound and arrangements of their own compositions and traditional Irish tunes and songs take their audience on a breathtaking musical journey by award winning musicians.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Dallahan1.htmDallahan2016-08-25T16:49:49.97300
Gria/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2014002320.JPGThe four young ladies that make up Gria hail from Shetland, Orkney, Lewis and Northumberland, Scotland. Now based in Glasgow, Gria creates a unique sound combining traditional and contemporary Scottish, Gaelic and English influences, self-penned tunes and songs from the rest of the United Kingdom and beyond, with haunting harmonies and weaving melody lines.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Gria1.htmGria2015-06-22T12:10:08.42300
MacLean, Dougie/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2014002353.JPGDougie MacLean is one of Scotland's most successful, respected and popular musicians. Singer-songwriter, composer and magical performer, as well as a fine guitarist and fiddle player, Milwaukee Irish Fest welcomes him to the festival for the first time. His moving song Caledonia and The GAEL, used in the film The Last of the Mohicans, have been recorded and enjoyed by millions worldwide. Welcome to Milwaukee, Dougie.0/Scrapbook_Artists/MacLean-Dougie1.htmMacLean, Dougie2015-06-17T16:31:14.27300
Manran/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2014002325.JPGThe Glasgow-based Manran brings a powerful blend of Gaelic and English traditional music to the world scene featuring an enchanting mix of drum and bass to create an infectious sound. Manran is the only band to use the Highland and Uillean pipes in one lineup. They have traveled to many of the top European folk festivals in the past two years and also did a special show at the 2012 London Olympics. Milwaukee Irish Fest fans saw Manran at our festival for the first time in 2013 and were lucky to see the group perform together on stage with their friends the Red Hot Chilli Pipers. 0/Scrapbook_Artists/Manran1.htmManran2015-06-22T12:07:45.67300
Red Hot Chilli Pipers/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2014002141.JPGFrom Scotland, the Red Hot Chilli Pipers bring their bag rock to Irish Fest. Fusing traditional pipe tunes and contemporary rock anthems, the Chilli Pipers have won fans the world over due to their unique sound and energetic and enthusiastic live shows. Not just a band with a cool name, the Red Hot Chilli Pipers are world-class musicians who play bagpipes with an attitude. Over the last five years the Red Hot Chilli Pipers have become one of the most popular bands at Milwaukee Irish Fest.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Red-Hot-Chilli-Pipers1.htmRed Hot Chilli Pipers2016-08-25T16:58:47.97300
Scottish Music Jam: Red Hot Chilli Pipers, Skerryvore, Manran and Friends0/Scrapbook_Artists/Scottish-Music-Jam.htmScottish Music Jam2015-08-21T14:13:33.56700
Skerryvore/Irish-Fest-Scrapbook/Media/2012002312-2.JPGSkerryvore was first formed on the tiny Isle of Tiree, off Scotland's west coast, in 2005. The band shares their love of music - everything from traditional to rock and jazz, with audiences there and now the world with their tour, bringing their bright, breezy and feel good sounds to an ever increasing fan base. Skerryvore has recorded several critically acclaimed albums.0/Scrapbook_Artists/Skerryvore1.htmSkerryvore2016-08-25T17:10:34.85000
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