9 Castle Close prides itself on adding a new dimension to the celtic rock scene. Kevin Maloney leads with a dexterous instrumental repertoire as well as excellent vocals and fresh originals. Ryan Gross on drums and Patrick Disney on lead guitar, also formerly of The Spill, bring years of experience, dedication, and talent to the mix. Mike Thomas, being our veteran wise man, has logged many decades on bass and provides a steady foundation. Stuart Brand on fiddle has a background of classical and traditional Irish, and Beth Hicks on flutes and whistles brings to the mix decades of performance experience in classical, jazz, Irish, Appalachian, and choral. With over a century of combined professional experience, 9 Castle Close delivers your favorite Celtic rock tunes, electrifying instrumental sets, and innovative originals with a high level of musicianship as well as a joie de musique and harmonious camaraderie. Come enjoy a musical experience unparalleled, crafted with much love, many years’ dedication, and presented anew.
Official Website
After over four years based in France and travelling around the world working as co-musical and artistic directors of the show Celtic Legends, Liz Knowles and Kieran O’Hare are very excited to be back in the US, working on promoting our new collaboration “Open the Door for Three” with their long-time colleague Pat Broaders (formerly of bohola). Open the Door for Three showcase spirited Irish traditional tunes and songs on fiddle, uilleann pipes, and bouzouki. The music spans the centuries from new compositions, to 19th century collectors’ discoveries, to an Irish ballad dating back to the Middle Ages. Kieran, Liz and Pat have are all considered top performers on their respective instruments and it is an exciting trio to bring together.
Official Website
Named after the traditional food of the same name—that, like the band’s musical composition, is made up of diverse and unexpected elements—Enter the Haggis returns to the Dublin Irish Festival once again. Playing and recording albums since 1996, this Toronto-based band celebrates and incorporates many aspects of Irish and world fusion music into its fundamental rock sound. In addition to an extensive, albeit undoubtedly successful, touring schedule that encompasses Canada, the United States, and Europe, Enter the Haggis has released nine albums and has enjoyed high ranks on the iTunes World Music charts. While on the road, Enter the Haggis enjoys introducing people to the world-fusion music genre and forging memorable connections with fans.
Official Website
Charlene Adzima
Columbus native and Madison, Wisconsin resident Charlene Adzima has been playing fiddle for over 20 years and has made a name for herself in the United States as an infectiously passionate performer and teacher of Irish music. As the 2005 Midwest Senior Fiddle Champion, Charlene has twice competed at the Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann for the world championship. She has shared the stage with renowned masters of Irish music, including Liz Carroll, John Doyle and John Whelan. Her 2007 album release "The Initiation" is a product of Charlene's beginnings in the fertile Irish community of Ohio and her exceptional creativity, highlighting her singing and tune‑writing skills.
Rick Nelson
Rick Nelson has been an active Celtic‑style guitar player for many years, having performed and recorded with local and national musicians such as Sandy Jones, Mike Dugger, Charlene Adzima, and Liz Carroll. Please give a big festival welcome to Charlene Adzima and Rick Nelson!
The Willis Clan is a family of amazing musicians, dancers, athletes, writers, and artists. Living in middle Tennessee, they merge their Irish roots with other music and dance genres to create a unique blend of the old and new.
Official Website
Taking the world by storm with their eclectic “Bagrock” sound, the Red Hot Chilli Pipers, formed in 2007, have successfully brought bagpipe playing into the twenty-first century. Through their awe-inspiring mastery on the pipes, drums, keyboards and guitars, the Red Hot Chilli Pipers have greatly expanded the versatility of traditional Irish instruments. Between a sold-out international tour and four chart-topping albums, the Red Hot Chilli Pipers are easily one of the most in-demand groups within the Celtic rock genre. The Pipers’ signature imagination and creativity is evident in the covers of popular songs that they play on the bagpipes—an unusual amalgamation that you have to hear to believe.
Official Website
Dulahan (Doo-la-hon) is an anomaly in Celtic music, displaying an unwavering commitment to the strength and message of their original Celtic music. They pay homage to the traditional music that their signature sound has evolved from but are proud to bring their fresh new music to the Celtic music scene.
Official Website
General Guinness
Performing together since 1980, the General Guinness Band combines Irish ballads with energetic fiddle tunes and Irish step dancing. As they weave ballads and dance music intio a single selection, the band's riveting instrumentals, complex arrangements, and step dancing intensify their vocal renditions of numerous hard-to-find songs going back nearly 500 years. These richly told stories in song also incorporate humor and provide insight into th echarming lore and myth of the Irish. The variety of instruments played includes fiddle, tin whistles, Irish flute, guitar, bodhran, and Irish bouzouki.
Official Website
Joe Moriarty
Joe was born in Columbus, Ohio. Joe's Irish connection comes from his father’s side of the family. He started Irish dancing at the age of eight, joining the Richens-Timms Academy of Irish Dance. He went on to win age-group titles at the US Mid-western Regional and US National Irish Dancing Championships. Before joining Riverdance in August 1997, Joe had progressed to competing at World Championship level on three separate occasions. Joe is the Male Lead in River Dance. His favorite music number is- ‘Trading Taps’. "It’s a dance off with tap dancers. There is a lot of interaction with the audience and you can really see the audience getting in to it." He states.
The Willis Clan is a family of amazing musicians, dancers, athletes, writers, and artists. Living in middle Tennessee, they merge their Irish roots with other music and dance genres to create a unique blend of the old and new.
Official Website
Charlene Adzima
Columbus native and Madison, Wisconsin resident Charlene Adzima has been playing fiddle for over 20 years and has made a name for herself in the United States as an infectiously passionate performer and teacher of Irish music. As the 2005 Midwest Senior Fiddle Champion, Charlene has twice competed at the Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann for the world championship. She has shared the stage with renowned masters of Irish music, including Liz Carroll, John Doyle and John Whelan. Her 2007 album release "The Initiation" is a product of Charlene's beginnings in the fertile Irish community of Ohio and her exceptional creativity, highlighting her singing and tune‑writing skills.
Rick Nelson
Rick Nelson has been an active Celtic‑style guitar player for many years, having performed and recorded with local and national musicians such as Sandy Jones, Mike Dugger, Charlene Adzima, and Liz Carroll. Please give a big festival welcome to Charlene Adzima and Rick Nelson!
In 1998, an irresistibly dynamic group of accomplished musicians came together to form the group Barleyjuice, shaping the world of Celtic rock with their bold and kilt-clad style. Performing traditional Irish and Scottish songs with their own pop/rock twist, Barleyjuice has had tremendous success in topping the Irish music genre charts. In 2012, the band celebrated the release of its fifth studio album, Skulduggery Street. The music of Barleyjuice is Irish with an attitude and has been loved by fans throughout the world, earning titles such as “Celtic Rock Album of the Year” and “Best Song of the Year” in 2008.
Official Website
After over four years based in France and travelling around the world working as co-musical and artistic directors of the show Celtic Legends, Liz Knowles and Kieran O’Hare are very excited to be back in the US, working on promoting our new collaboration “Open the Door for Three” with their long-time colleague Pat Broaders (formerly of bohola). Open the Door for Three showcase spirited Irish traditional tunes and songs on fiddle, uilleann pipes, and bouzouki. The music spans the centuries from new compositions, to 19th century collectors’ discoveries, to an Irish ballad dating back to the Middle Ages. Kieran, Liz and Pat have are all considered top performers on their respective instruments and it is an exciting trio to bring together.
Official Website
Columbus Police and Fire Pipes and Drums serves to honor retired and active police officers and firefighters for their service, as well as those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. We volunteer to participate in various community, civic, military and other related functions at their own expense and with great sacrifice. We, as police officers and firefighters, are proud to represent the Columbus Division of Police and Columbus Division of Fire as well as Central Ohio.
Kate Power has been a Columbus contra dance caller and avid dancer for many years in two thriving Central Ohio contra dance groups. She is joined by enthusiastic Contra dancers from Columbus and surrounding communities, who enjoy sharing their passion for this traditional early American folk dance, with roots in New England and Appalachia, and the British Isles before that.
Joining Kate this weekend are the Boys of the Hock. They are sure to please with their instrumental interpretations of Irish traditional music. The Boys weave together lively jigs and reels, stately hornpipes, and haunting airs to bring the sounds of Ireland to the hills of Appalachia.
Carlos Nunez began his career as a successful bagpiper at the age of eight. He has previously performed with the The Chieftans and has completed many collaboration albums and singles with international artists. Incorporating the traditional music of his homeland of Galicia, Spain with Celtic influences, Nunez has developed a unique style that has captured the hearts of many fans. Celebrating the release of his latest album in 2012, he embarked on his immensely successful first North American tour in October 2012. Nunez continues to explore alternative genres, especially focusing on the use of the traditional gaita bagpipe in modern Celtic music.
Official Website
Named after the traditional food of the same name—that, like the band’s musical composition, is made up of diverse and unexpected elements—Enter the Haggis returns to the Dublin Irish Festival once again. Playing and recording albums since 1996, this Toronto-based band celebrates and incorporates many aspects of Irish and world fusion music into its fundamental rock sound. In addition to an extensive, albeit undoubtedly successful, touring schedule that encompasses Canada, the United States, and Europe, Enter the Haggis has released nine albums and has enjoyed high ranks on the iTunes World Music charts. While on the road, Enter the Haggis enjoys introducing people to the world-fusion music genre and forging memorable connections with fans.
Official Website
Rapidly becoming one of the top bands in the Midwest, Lone Raven perform an eclectic blend of traditional music from the Celtic lands and various areas of the world, as well as their own original compositions. With over 20 instruments on stage, the band soars through everything from fiery Irish Reels to Gypsy Fiddle Tunes to haunting airs. Their instrumentals are fueled by the award-winning guitar playing of Neil Jacobs, the twin fiddles of Elizabeth Blickenstaff and Kara Markley, while being driven by an explosive rhythm section of Craig Markley and Sid Omasta. In addition, Kara's breathtaking and expressive vocals are featured throughout each performance, with Elizabeth and Craig adding the perfect harmony blend.
The 78th Regiment, Second Highland Battalion of Foot, commonly called Frasers Highlanders was raised in Scotland in 1757, specifically for service in North America. It played a daring and romantic role in the major battles of the Seven Years War, a war which ultimately determined Canadas future. Although the regiment was disbanded in Quebec in 1763, it was the only Scottish regiment ever to be disbanded on foreign soil. The men of the 78th were first among the many thousands of red-coated settlers who remained in Canada. Since that time, their family trees have flourished placing their descendants throughout the country and the continent.
Official Website
Gaelic Storm, a band synonymous with the Celtic rock genre, returns for its 13th performance at the 2013 Dublin Irish Festival. Since its formation in 1996, Gaelic Storm has repeatedly topped the Billboard World Music Charts and has undeniably shaped the modern Celtic music scene. A carefully crafted and unmistakably original sound personifies this annual crowd favorite; the band’s innovative take on classic Irish melodies introduce fans around the world to a rich musical heritage. Blending traditional Irish and Scottish folk music with the intense artistry of rock performance, Gaelic Storm’s unique musical style has amassed a devoted following throughout the world.
Official Website
9 Castle Close prides itself on adding a new dimension to the celtic rock scene. Kevin Maloney leads with a dexterous instrumental repertoire as well as excellent vocals and fresh originals. Ryan Gross on drums and Patrick Disney on lead guitar, also formerly of The Spill, bring years of experience, dedication, and talent to the mix. Mike Thomas, being our veteran wise man, has logged many decades on bass and provides a steady foundation. Stuart Brand on fiddle has a background of classical and traditional Irish, and Beth Hicks on flutes and whistles brings to the mix decades of performance experience in classical, jazz, Irish, Appalachian, and choral. With over a century of combined professional experience, 9 Castle Close delivers your favorite Celtic rock tunes, electrifying instrumental sets, and innovative originals with a high level of musicianship as well as a joie de musique and harmonious camaraderie. Come enjoy a musical experience unparalleled, crafted with much love, many years’ dedication, and presented anew.
Official Website
Rapidly becoming one of the top bands in the Midwest, Lone Raven perform an eclectic blend of traditional music from the Celtic lands and various areas of the world, as well as their own original compositions. With over 20 instruments on stage, the band soars through everything from fiery Irish Reels to Gypsy Fiddle Tunes to haunting airs. Their instrumentals are fueled by the award-winning guitar playing of Neil Jacobs, the twin fiddles of Elizabeth Blickenstaff and Kara Markley, while being driven by an explosive rhythm section of Craig Markley and Sid Omasta. In addition, Kara's breathtaking and expressive vocals are featured throughout each performance, with Elizabeth and Craig adding the perfect harmony blend.
Columbus Police and Fire Pipes and Drums serves to honor retired and active police officers and firefighters for their service, as well as those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. We volunteer to participate in various community, civic, military and other related functions at their own expense and with great sacrifice. We, as police officers and firefighters, are proud to represent the Columbus Division of Police and Columbus Division of Fire as well as Central Ohio.
Charlene Adzima
Columbus native and Madison, Wisconsin resident Charlene Adzima has been playing fiddle for over 20 years and has made a name for herself in the United States as an infectiously passionate performer and teacher of Irish music. As the 2005 Midwest Senior Fiddle Champion, Charlene has twice competed at the Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann for the world championship. She has shared the stage with renowned masters of Irish music, including Liz Carroll, John Doyle and John Whelan. Her 2007 album release "The Initiation" is a product of Charlene's beginnings in the fertile Irish community of Ohio and her exceptional creativity, highlighting her singing and tune‑writing skills.
Rick Nelson
Rick Nelson has been an active Celtic‑style guitar player for many years, having performed and recorded with local and national musicians such as Sandy Jones, Mike Dugger, Charlene Adzima, and Liz Carroll. Please give a big festival welcome to Charlene Adzima and Rick Nelson!
The Cletic Foot Force
The Celtic Foot Force is a professional Irish Dance troupe founded by John Timm in 1997. This group has performed with renowned acts such as Cherish the Ladies and The Chieftains.
Official Website
The Kells
The Kells perform locally and nationally with a fast paced, high energy sound, which grabs the interest of music lovers of all types. John O’Regan of Irish Music Magazine says “The Kells have the recipe to perfection. This is music full of spaciousness and lucidity, eloquent in its gentleness as much as it is fervently.”
The Willis Clan is a family of amazing musicians, dancers, athletes, writers, and artists. Living in middle Tennessee, they merge their Irish roots with other music and dance genres to create a unique blend of the old and new.
Official Website
After over four years based in France and travelling around the world working as co-musical and artistic directors of the show Celtic Legends, Liz Knowles and Kieran O’Hare are very excited to be back in the US, working on promoting our new collaboration “Open the Door for Three” with their long-time colleague Pat Broaders (formerly of bohola). Open the Door for Three showcase spirited Irish traditional tunes and songs on fiddle, uilleann pipes, and bouzouki. The music spans the centuries from new compositions, to 19th century collectors’ discoveries, to an Irish ballad dating back to the Middle Ages. Kieran, Liz and Pat have are all considered top performers on their respective instruments and it is an exciting trio to bring together.
Official Website
In 1998, an irresistibly dynamic group of accomplished musicians came together to form the group Barleyjuice, shaping the world of Celtic rock with their bold and kilt-clad style. Performing traditional Irish and Scottish songs with their own pop/rock twist, Barleyjuice has had tremendous success in topping the Irish music genre charts. In 2012, the band celebrated the release of its fifth studio album, Skulduggery Street. The music of Barleyjuice is Irish with an attitude and has been loved by fans throughout the world, earning titles such as “Celtic Rock Album of the Year” and “Best Song of the Year” in 2008.
Official Website
Rousing and raucous, Scythian (sith-ee-yin) plays kicked-up Celtic and world music with hints of Gypsy and Klezmer, all infused with a touch of punk-rock sensibility. Take a trio of classically trained dueling fiddlers, toss in a rhythm guitar, a banjo and the occasional funky accordion, then power it with the driving rhythm of a world percussionist, and you've got the ingredients for a show you won't soon forget. Scythian's high-energy, adrenaline-peddling, interactive brand of music is the result of their origins as street performers and has one goal in mind - to get people up on their feet and dancing. Their repertoire ranges from traditional and contemporary Celtic and folk music to the alluring and dramatic strains of Gypsy and Eastern European tunes, and then crosses back over the border to pick up some good old-fashioned bluegrass licks. Scythian is: Josef Crosby (Fiddle/Bass), Alexander (Fiddle/Mandolin) & Danylo Fedoryka (accordion/guitar), Ben-David Warner (Fiddle/Banjo) and Tim Hepburn(Percussion).
Official Website
Performing together since 1980, the General Guinness Band combines Irish ballads with energetic fiddle tunes and Irish step dancing. As they weave ballads and dance music intio a single selection, the band's riveting instrumentals, complex arrangements, and step dancing intensify their vocal renditions of numerous hard-to-find songs going back nearly 500 years. These richly told stories in song also incorporate humor and provide insight into th echarming lore and myth of the Irish. The variety of instruments played includes fiddle, tin whistles, Irish flute, guitar, bodhran, and Irish bouzouki.
Official Website
Carlos Nunez began his career as a successful bagpiper at the age of eight. He has previously performed with the The Chieftans and has completed many collaboration albums and singles with international artists. Incorporating the traditional music of his homeland of Galicia, Spain with Celtic influences, Nunez has developed a unique style that has captured the hearts of many fans. Celebrating the release of his latest album in 2012, he embarked on his immensely successful first North American tour in October 2012. Nunez continues to explore alternative genres, especially focusing on the use of the traditional gaita bagpipe in modern Celtic music.
Official Website
Come strut your stuff in the Festival's "Best Legs in a Kilt" contest for a chance to win great prizes and some serious bragging rights. Don't have a kilt? You have until Sunday, August 4th at 5:15 p.m. to get one at the Dublin Irish Festival Marketplace. Enter before the competition right here at the Hollywood Casino Trinity Stage, or come by at 5:30 on Sunday to watch the show!
Gaelic Storm, a band synonymous with the Celtic rock genre, returns for its 13th performance at the 2013 Dublin Irish Festival. Since its formation in 1996, Gaelic Storm has repeatedly topped the Billboard World Music Charts and has undeniably shaped the modern Celtic music scene. A carefully crafted and unmistakably original sound personifies this annual crowd favorite; the band’s innovative take on classic Irish melodies introduce fans around the world to a rich musical heritage. Blending traditional Irish and Scottish folk music with the intense artistry of rock performance, Gaelic Storm’s unique musical style has amassed a devoted following throughout the world.
Official Website