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ATLAN Performs at Harris Center for the Arts March 26

Mar 20, 2015 08:01PM ● By Brenna Mc Gowan

One of the most important groups playing traditional Irish music in Ireland and on the world stage for three decades comes to Harris Center for the Arts for just one performance. Altan's commitment to good-natured fun is second only to their commitment to excellence in all things musical, and this concert is no exception.

The seeds of Altan lie in the music and spontaneity of sessions in kitchens and pubs in their hometown of Donegal, where their music was heard in an atmosphere of respect and intimacy. It is here that the band's heart still lies, whether they are performing on TV in Australia or jamming with Ricky Skaggs on the west coast of the United States. The Los Angeles Times praises the group when remarking, “Altan continues to be one of the Celtic world’s great treasures, gifted with a front line that is a sheer powerhouse.”

In the last dozen years, no traditional Irish band has had a wider impact on audiences and music lovers throughout the world than Altan. They have moved audiences from Donegal to Tokyo to Seattle with their heartwarming, dynamic, live performances and with their exquisitely produced, award-winning recordings that range from the most touching old Irish songs to hard-hitting reels and jigs.

Throughout their career, Altan has shown unwavering commitment to bringing the beauty of traditional music to contemporary audiences, particularly that of the Donegal fiddlers and singers.

On their recently released album, The Widening Gyre, Altan explores and celebrates the musical connection between the traditional music of Ireland and the roots and bluegrass music from their across-the-pond cousin. The chance to experience this thirty year-active band is to experience the living legacy of Irish music. Special guest fiddler Liz Carroll will join the group for the Folsom show.

Altan performs a mix of music from their new album, as well as songs spanning the band’s career on Thursday, March 26, 2015 at 7 p.m..

Tickets are priced at $19-$29; Premium $39; Students with ID $12. Tickets are available online at www.harriscenter.net or from Harris Center Ticket Office at 916-608-6888 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and two hours before show time. Parking is included in the price of the ticket. Harris Center is located on the west side of Folsom Lake College campus in Folsom, facing East Bidwell Street.

Post information and picture courtesy of Harris Center for the Arts.