Assembly:
A Gaelic Gathering - Irish Music and Dance, was first commissioned by the Music Center for World City, the acclaimed performance series for children and families. The company of internationally award-winning dancers and musicians gave a rousing performance in March 2007 at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. The program is a feast of Irish tunes and dances originally created, and now adapted for schools, by Maire Clerkin.
She is accompanied by Musical Director, fiddle player/dancer, Kira Ott and champion stepdancer Jennifer Keogh. Frank Simpson plays an array of flutes and whistles; Patrick D'Arcy plays ancient instruments including uilleann pipes (elbow bagpipes) and bodhran (drum). Renowned vocalist Moira Smiley sings haunting songs and plays accordion. Together they guide their audience on a cultural journey through Ireland's rich heritage.
A Gaelic Gathering - Irish Music & Dance celebrates the exuberance of Irish culture. Traditional instruments accompany rhythmic hard shoe Jigs and Hornpipes, as well as lyrical soft shoe Reels and Slipjigs. The artists explain the social context of Irish people gathering to socialize and relax, by singing, playing and dancing. Students will: experience interactive rhythm exercises and participatory singing; hear stirring melodies; and see intricate footwork in both the rhythmic step and Ceili (group) dances.
