Eileen Ivers leads her bold acoustic roots project, The Brigideens, in a concert at the May Memorial Unitarian Universalist Society. A Grammy winner, an Emmy nominee, and a nine-time All-Ireland fiddle champion, Ivers is known for expanding the boundaries of traditional fiddling and transforming a folk staple into an energetic, beautiful, and worldly experience. Over more than four decades, she has collaborated across genres, was a groundbreaking musical star in Riverdance, and has appeared with more than 60 orchestras, including noted ensembles in London and Boston. Her artistry has drawn praise from outlets such as Billboard, The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Irish Times.
This women-led ensemble blends Celtic roots with Americana influences, moving from lively dance tunes to soaring ballads to originals that cross genres. Expect explosive fiddle playing, punchy banjo, nuanced guitar work, vibrant percussion, lush harmonies, and storytelling that highlights resilience, connection, and creative fire. The lineup features Caitlin Maloney on lead vocals and keyboards, Hilary Hawke on five string banjo, upright bass, clarinet, spoons, and vocals, Anna Colliton on bodhran, cajon, and other percussion, and Colin Forhan on guitar, tenor banjo, and vocals. Named for Brigid, the Celtic patron associated with scholars, poets, healers, and peace, the group keeps an ever-burning flame for tradition while charting its own path.
Support for this presentation is provided through the Statewide Community Regrants Program of the New York State Council on the Arts with assistance from the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and administered by CNY Arts. Additional funding comes from the County of Onondaga’s Tier Three Project Support program, also administered by CNY Arts, along with the generosity of Folkus members.