CHICOPEE – The Irish Cultural Center of Western New England is once again hosting a concert by The Elders, promising an evening on April 9 of high-octane Celtic folk and rock music.
“The Elders weave many genres into their music,” said Kathleen Doe, one of the event’s organizers. “They feature traditional Celtic instruments like the bodhran, tin whistle, and fiddle, but some songs may have a bluegrass edge, some are trad-style instrumental tunes, some are more straight rock. As a fan, the variety and talent in melody and songwriting is a joy to listen to.”
Based in Kansas City, The Elders blend American roots rock and “amped-up” Celtic folk, according to Doe. The Elders are Ian Byrne, vocals, percussion, whistle; Steve Phillips, vocals, guitar, mandolin; Diana Ladio, fiddle; Brent Hoad, vocals, keyboards, fiddle, guitar; Norm Dahlor, vocals, bass, guitar, banjo, and Kian Byrne, drums, bass, mandolin.
“Their music is a cross-pollination of elements that is high-octane and progressive, yet rooted in tradition,” said Doe.
Steve Phillips agrees.
“We are one of the few bands that write our own music in addition to playing traditional Irish tune sets,” said Phillips. “The show will be comprised of the best material from the seven albums we’ve produced as well as songs and tunes that will be included on a new album to be released later this year.”
The concert is planned at the Portuguese American Club, 149 Exchange St., with doors opening at 7 p.m. Show time is 8. Advance tickets are $25, $22 for Irish Cultural Center (ICC) members, and $30 at the door. Table seating is planned as well as a cash bar.
“The Elders are in the top tier of Celtic folk/rock music,” said Doe. “Their shows are full of joy and energy, rocking music and thoughtful storytelling. It is obvious that the band loves their craft, and they share that with the audience.”
Doe noted that fans of The Elders have been known to travel long distances, especially from areas where the band does not normally tour.
“To have them back for another appearance in New England, after their first show for the Irish Cultural Center two years ago, is very special,” said Doe.
Proceeds raised from the concert will be used toward the refurbishment of the Irish Cultural Center’s new facility at 429 Morgan Road, West Springfield. During the evening, a 50/50 cash drawing is also planned.
“The former Elks Lodge property will allow the ICC to expand our program offerings for our members and for the overall community, thus fulfilling our mission of keeping the Irish arts alive,” said Doe.
The building and grounds will include offices and meeting areas, a traditional Irish pub, outdoor deck, parking lot, athletic field and nature trail, performance center and lecture hall, and a museum and library, according to Doe.
“During the concert we will also be able to introduce more people to the ICC and our mission, especially with our upcoming move to West Springfield,” she said.
For more concert information, visit www.irishcenterwne.org or call (413) 265-2537.
