Celtic Woman is a group of world-class, dynamic vocalists that celebrate Ireland’s cultural and musical heritage and bring it to life in front of audiences around the world. Four young Irish women make up the group – currently Susan McFadden, Mairéad Carlin and Éabha McMahon – in addition to the group’s newest addition, talented violinist Tara McNeill.
Performances include much more than just the five young women, though. Anything is possible at one of their shows – full orchestras, huge choirs, dancers, bagpipers, and even traditional Celtic instruments. Celtic Woman blends traditional Irish music, contemporary pieces, classical favorites, as well as inspiring originals. The wide variety of experiences keep audiences coming back over and over again.
Over the past decade, the group has introduced some of Ireland’s most talented singers and musicians to the world. Their 2016 album debuted at #1 on Billboard’s World Albums chart; this was the group’s twelfth consecutive #1 hit. The group has sold over eight million CDs and DVDs! In the past ten years, they have been the only all-female group to reach multi-platinum success in both the classical and world music genres.
This video was recorded during a performance on a U.S. tour in tribute to their hosting country and what is known as the “American Dream.” The five women of Celtic Woman stand on an oval stage at dusk in a large field, surrounded by a large choir, orchestra, and eager audience. A bit of mist creeps through the dim lights behind them.
Accompanied by the piano, one of the vocalists starts singing sweetly,
“O, America you’re calling,
I can hear you calling me,
You are calling me to be true to thee,
True to thee I will be.”
Throughout the song, the strengths of each woman is showcased, and the orchestra and choir begin to add to the growing emotion of the lyrics,
“O, America no weeping,
Let me heal your wounded heart.
I will keep you in my keeping,
Till there be, a new start.
And I will answer you, and I will take your hand,
And lead you to the sun
And I will stand by you, do all that I can do,
And we will be as one.”
The power of the combined vocals and instrumentation build, almost as if signifying the unity the song is expressing. Suddenly, fireworks begin to light up the night sky behind them all as the song finishes… “And we will be as one.”
Rightfully so, this tremendous performance by everyone involved was met by applause and a standing ovation from the crowd. This just proves why Celtic Woman’s concert tours are loved all around the world and why they have such a devoted audience.