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Harpers Hall Christmas Concert

Harpers Hall

Christmas Concert 2020

Online - On Demand via YouTube

At this season, Verlene Schermer's Harper's Hall ensemble would be filling the basilica of Saint Joseph's Cathedral in downtown San Jose with their music, but since that was not possible due to the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, this year she has produce an online version, with 16 harpers participating! The resulting 47 minute video is very well done - and well worth your time.

Verlene says,
I've been working on producing a virtual ensemble video for our local harp group for the past three weeks. It's finally completed, and you can watch the video on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/tVGYHNfIxPY. It was a lot of work but worth it on so many levels! Feel free to share the link with any and all who might enjoy watching it!

Also, you can watch it on our Harper's Hall website at www.harpershall.com.

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Susan Hwang

Accordion Fridays

Celtic Accordion World Masters in Concert

Online via Facebook Live!

Show Schedule
Friday, December 18th, 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM PDT

• 11 AM Pacific Time: 7pm(GMT): 8 PM (CET)
Will Allen plays English, Scottish and Irish dance tunes on melodeon. His playing is very rhythmic, hypnotic and soulful. London, UK https://www.facebook.com/willthesqueezer
• 12 PM (noon) Pacific Time: 9 PM Europe:
Tom Torriglia playing hot Italian tunes and accordion classics from his home in Italy. https://www.facebook.com/tom.torriglia
• 1 PM Pacific Time: 10 PM Europe:
Renee de la Prade folk, rock, blues on diatonic accordion from Thueringen, Germany:
https://www.facebook.com/Accordion-Babes-128066897203923
• 3 PM Pacific Time: 6 PM East Coast Time: midnight Europe Time:
Susan Hwang: Soul singer-songwriter from Brooklyn NY: https://www.facebook.com/susanhwanglalala
• 7 PM Pacific time: 10 PM East Coast time:
Salane's 'The Dark Family Hour Christmas Special': dark mysterious music, polkas and waltzes, comedy and a dash of mistletoe from Oakland, CA. https://www.facebook.com/The-Dark-Family-Hour-105784227882339

Accordion Fridays are back with more free live accordion concerts. These video live-streamed concerts are coming in from: England, Italy, Germany, New York, and Oakland this Friday so come check it out! Lots of folk music, soul and rock, plus a dash of mistletoe...

Check out the box and click the links to see live online concerts by: Will Allen (London, England), Tom Torriglia (Genova, Italy), Renee de la Prade (Thueringen, Germany), Susan Hwang (Brooklyn, NY), Salane (Oakland, CA), and then look for the little red LIVE button.

All shows are LIVE, FREE, and HAVE ACCORDIONS. You know you want some bellows-shaking cheer!

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Christmas at Home

Michael McGoldrick/John McCusker/John Doyle

Online via Zoom

A Scot, an Irishman, and an Irish American walk into a studio...

Michael McGoldrick, John McCusker and John Doyle have prepared a series of 45-minute Christmas shows for a virtual live stream tour of the UK. Each recorded show will be different and live stream ticket buyers will be able to submit questions to the musicians to create a unique event.

For those of us without tickets, they have posted a sample video at https://myplayer.uk/christmasathome.

While you are there, consider choosing a venue to receive your support, or perhaps more than one, and purchase your tickets for that show in the series!

Samhain (Halloween) Special

Eamonn Flynn's Holiday Spectacular

Friday, December 18th, 1:00 - 2:00 PM PDT

Facebook LIVE, from San Francisco, CA

Join Eamonn for another piano man show! Click Here to go to his Facebook Profile, and then look for the little red LIVE button.

Eamonn Flynn says:
Join us for a virtual holiday get together where we’ll sing and play Christmas songs, vaguely Christmasy songs and songs that have absolutely nothing to do with Christmas.

I'll be playing songs of the season, tunes from my new instrumental album 'The King of The Cats' as well as some new songs, old songs, songs I wrote and songs I wish I wrote.

Please send me requests ahead of time if you can at eamonnflynnmusic@gmail.com. If not I'll just go ahead and attempt and possibly murder them anyway. Donations not expected but gratefully accepted from $1 to $1 million at paypal.me/EamonnFlynn371 or Venmo: Eamonn-Flynn-2.

Click here to check out the Black Coddle video: Click Here to view the music video 'Black Coddle'

Eamonn's recent album, Black Coddle , has a unique blend of Irish and American music and featuring Eamonn's original songs, vocals and piano front and central. The album features contributions from some amazing Irish and American musicians, including Michael, Shay and Róisín O from the Black Family, Chris Cain, Jeff Tamelier, Todd Denman, Darryl Anders, Kevin Hayes, Tamar Gillette, Sanara Pippins, Jamie Brewer, Conor Brady, Joel Jaffe, Mike Rinta, Shelly Bukspan, Jorden Bukspan, Andrew MacNamara, Cormac Gannon, Blyss Gould and Ruth Davies.

Dublin, Ireland born keyboardist, singer and songwriter Eamonn Flynn was the session Hammond organist and pianist on the 14 million selling movie soundtrack 'The Commitments'.

More on the Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/296288181817187

An Irish Christmas Streaming Events

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Benefiting Kerry Irish Productions and the Lobero Theatre Foundation
Stream On Demand now through Dec. 30
Virtual tickets only $15

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Benefiting Kerry Irish Productions and the Clark Center
Watch this concert, starting Saturday, December 19 at 6:00 PM on either:
https://www.youtube.com/user/clarkcenterperfarts
https://www.facebook.com/ClarkCenter
More Details: https://clarkcenter.org/event/an-irish-christmas-5

An Irish Christmas ONLINE!

Christmas magic from the Emerald Isle
→ Watch the Video ←

Traditional Song, Dance and Storytelling for the Whole Family

Dancing on the Half-Door

Back by popular demand, An Irish Christmas returns with an exhilarating exhibition of Christmas magic from the Emerald Isle. The show brings together all the joy, hope, laughter and spirit of the season with traditional songs, dances, and lively storytelling. An Irish Christmas is a unique and unforgettable experience that The Village News says, 'leaves everyone with the urge to grab their loved ones and dance down the aisles.'

Join an award-winning cast of Riverdance principals and World Champion Dancers in a celebration of the great traditions of Christmas in Ireland: butter-making, chasing the wren on St. Stephen’s Day, drawing down the half door and more! Come enjoy spectacular dance, the singing of traditional Christmas Carols from the Kerry Voice Squad and superb music from the Kerry Traditional Orchestra in a celebration of the international spirit of the holiday season!

… Genuinely astonishing ... electric!  — The Village News
… The capacity crowd nearly brought the house down at the end of the evening — The Irish Herald

More Information at: KerryIrishProductions.com.

Christmas Revels 2020 — Unruly Magic

December 12th-13th and 18th-20th

Online via Zoom

Join us this December for our 35th annual Christmas Revels 2020 show, Unruly Magic.

Approaching the longest night of the year, a young Reveler turns to a magical staff to help her find a way through somber and troubled times. The staff, imbued with ancient lore, takes her on an adventure that isn't quite what she had in mind. Magic and mystery, spirits and song take the reins for this journey of the heart.

The ancient traditions of bonfires, rituals, dances and songs that have sustained generations through struggle and celebration are rekindled this Solstice, proving that tradition—and magic—lives on.

About California Revels
Since 1986, California Revels has brought their unique theatrical, participatory arts form to audiences in the Bay Area. Founded by singer, author and music educator John Langstaff in Cambridge, Massachusetts in 1971, The Christmas Revels crosses religious and ethnic boundaries and appeals to young and old alike. The Christmas Revels is a joyous production welcoming the sun back from the depths of winter. Performed by a number of highly-talented professional actors, singers, musicians, dancers, and artists, and featuring a chorus of ages 7 and up, the audience is drawn into a magical revelry of song and dance. The Christmas Revels blends traditional music, dance, ritual and folk plays from many different cultures, presented by a large volunteer chorus of children and adults drawn from the community, accompanied by highly talented professional actors, musicians, artists, directors, and 'bearers of tradition.'

For more information visit californiarevels.org or call 510-452-9334, or check our Facebook Events.

Lark Camp Cabaret Episode 5

Friday, December 18th at 7:00 PM

Online Event via Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook Live

Join us for a December Christmas-themed Virtual Cabaret will be this Friday, December 18 at 7:00 PM!

When our Cabaret event begins at 7:00 PM on Friday, December 18th, you can watch, safe at home, on either the Lark Camp Cabaret YouTube channel, on Twitch – https://www.twitch.tv/larktraditionalarts, or on the Lark Camp Facebook Group, (Look for the little red LIVE button).

• Kevin Carr
• The Calextones (Shira Kammen & Friends)
• Calvaleigh Rasmussen and Celia Ramsay
• Jim Oakden and Shira Kammen
• Lisa Lynne and Aryeh Frankfurter
• Radim Zenkl
• Jason Adajian, Alex Bernstein, Ashley Lounsbury
• Maxine Meltzer Puppets

Virtual Winter Lark Week February 5, 6 & 7 is coming, and WE NEED YOU! Whether you're a camper or an instructor, if you have a tune, song, joke, or story that you'd like to pre-record for the show, here's the form for your submission.

More info on the website: http://larkcamp.org.

Kathryn Rose

Folktastic Fridays with Kathryn Rose

Friday, December 18th 7:00 PM

Online via Facebook Live

Join Kathryn for Folktastic Fridays! Click Here to go to her Facebook Profile, and then look for the little red LIVE button.

Kathryn Rose is a folk singer and recording artist from Oregon. She has been singing since she could talk and grew up listening to Irish and Scottish folk music.

Kathryn says:
Join Me For My FRIDAY Evening Live-Stream Show!! Message Me With Any Requests. Your tips mean more than you could ever know!
paypal.me/kathrynrosefolk or Venmo -- @kathrynrosefolk
I Am Official Now!! Listen - Buy The New CD Here!! https://kathrynrose.hearnow.com/

Kathryn began seriously collecting songs after her grandmother passed away and she discovered a treasure trove of handwritten Irish folk songs tucked inside the piano bench. After that discovery, Kathryn transitioned from a classical singing background into the folk world.  Her favorite musical style is Sean-nós, and she is working on her Gaeilge to perform more of these songs in the future. She performs folk music from both sides of the pond, with an emphasis on Ireland and even a dash of Gaeilge here and there.

Kathryn accompanies herself on the tenor guitar, but at various times in her life has had encounters with the piano, violin, lap harp, ukulele, and tin whistle. Her influences include Susan McKeown, Christy Moore, the Clancy Brothers, Seamus Begley, Sarah Ghriallais, Moya Brennan, and more. With her melodic voice, her love of world cultures and her attention to detail, she continues the tradition of Celtic folk music as an artist, a performer and an inspiration for peace and harmony in a complicated world. Kathryn and her husband live in somewhat peaceful harmony with their brood of hooligan cats.

More on Kathryn Rose Facebook Profile: https://facebook.com/kathrynrosefolk or check the Facebook Event.

Amelia Hogan

Amelia Hogan LIVE ONLINE
from the Hobbit Hole in San Francisco

Fridays at 8:00 PM & Wednesdays at 4:00 PM

Online via YouTube Live

Watch LIVE on Amelia's YouTube Channel or on Amelia's Facebook Profile.

Amelia Hogan sings traditional Irish, Scottish, English and American folk songs for over 30 years and plays a small Welsh lap-harp, across both sides of various ponds.

Amelia says:
Come sit a spell and sing along if you'd like, Wednesdays at 4:00 PM PT for Experimental renditions and all new songs, and Fridays at 8:00 PM for favorites you’ve already heard from my repertoire. These are mini-busking/ fireside chat sessions from my home in San Francisco.
Tip Jar: https://www.paypal.me/ameliahogan and if you'd like more content, Song-lists, blogposts, additional tracks, and other goodies, you can subscribe to my patreon at https://www.patreon.com/ameliahogan Thanks a million!

Here is a sample video of Amelia Hogan singing Paddy's Green Shamrock Shore https://youtu.be/pIr7XmLXDIc.

Check Amelia's Facebook Page here: https://www.facebook.com/ameliahogansings

A Christmas Card from San Francisco

A Christmas Card from San Francisco

An Irish Music and Dance Extravaganza!

Saturday, December 19th 12:00 PM

Live from the United Irish Cultural Center, (UICC), San Francisco, CA, this very special event is jointly hosted by the UICC and the Cooley Keegan branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann.

A global Irish Cultural Christmas virtual (online) extravaganza to bring us all together like never before.

This part live, part pre-recorded Christmas Cracker is a celebration of the very best of Irish music, song, dance, and seasonal 'craic' produced by 'Boscaí Beaga' (Little Boxes) Productions.

More information at https://irishcentersf.org/event/christmas-card-from-sf
Get tickets at: christmascardsf.eventbrite.com.
Questions? Email Michael Dillon jigginmick@me.com

SF Virtual Chantey Sing Series

Saturday, December 19th, 12:00 PM PDT

Online via Zoom from SF Maritime Association

A folk music 'landmark' on the historic ships at Hyde Street Pier, this 39-year San Francisco singing tradition continues in the virtual realm, hosting singers from across the Bay Area – and the country - and now all around planet Earth!

Sign up to Lead a Song Here: https://maritime.org/sea-chantey-sign-up/

Virtual Backgrounds required for lead singers available here: https://maritime.org/chantey-virtual-backgrounds/

Song Leader On-boarding Instruction Here: Chantey Sing Song Leader Guide

Donations to the Association will be accepted during the event, which will be used to buy virtual technologies to broadcast more events from the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park.

Visit https://maritime.org/events-home/chantey-sing for details, including links to a signup sheet, info for lead singers, and some suggested virtual backgrounds. You should have a good internet connection and be ready to have fun!

Peter Kasin says,
Ahoy -
The next chantey sing is this Saturday, December 19th, Noon to 2pm Pacific time. To enter on the day and time, please go to https://givebutter.com/ChanteySing. Lead singers will receive a separate link in another email. Since the sings have gone virtual, they have gone international. We have singers from across the country, the UK, and the Czech Republic lined up to lead us in song. All but the lead singer will be muted. Enjoy singing along on the choruses to chanteys from home.
Fair winds,
-Peter Kasin

For more details, check this Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/SanFranciscoMaritimeNHP

Sin Silver

Saturday, December 19th, 1:00 - 2:00 PM PDT

Online via Facebook LIVE, from Concord, CA

Sin Silver is an Irish singer songwriter based in the Bay Area in California. To watch the show, go to Sin Silver's Facebook Profile, and then look for the little red LIVE button.

Sin live-streams from 'Murray's Pub' (her recreation/piano room) every week and this week's theme is 'Home'. Find Sin's Live Performance by checking Sin's Facebook Profile, or go to www.livestream.com/watch and search for Sin Silver.

During the live stream, just drop your requests in the comments.

Virtual Tip Jar:
PayPal https://www.paypal.me/sinsilversin
Venmo @Sin-Silver

With a unique style, her 'Irish piano' and angelic voice are delighting audiences. A featured artist at Northern California's Graton Casino Resort, she brings a unique flavor to her craft. Whether she is playing her expertly crafted originals, covers with her own twist or celtic music, Sin Silver is someone that deserves to be heard live.

A true singer-songwriter at heart, Sin Silver weaves a silver tapestry drawing from diverse influences such as David Bowie, Elton John, Sinead O’Connor, Jack White and Joni Mitchell.

Check out her website here:  www.sinsilverandtheavenue.com or email her at sinsilverandtheavenue@gmail.com.

John Whelan

John Whelan Master Sessions #6

Kevin Burke
Saturday, December 19th, 2:00 PM

Online via Zoom

Seven-time All-Ireland Button Accordion Champion John Whelan is one of the world's best living Irish button accordion players. John was raised in the vibrant London Irish music scene of the 1970s, and learned his craft from such legends as Lucy Farr, Roger Sherlock, Paddy Taylor, Mick O Connor and his teacher Brendan Mulkaire. Along with his All-Ireland Championships, he was twice awarded musician of the year from the Irish Music Association. He has over 15 CDs and has performed on Late Night with Conan O'Brien. John's music has been featured on such TV shows as 'Sex in the City,' 'History's Mysteries' and 'History Detective.' John performs with the John Whelan Band and has also teamed up with his old pal Brian Conway forming the group Gailfean, which also features Máirtin De Cógáin and Don Penzien have released their first new CD. For over a decade, John has performed 'Monday's with John' every Monday evening on his Facebook Profile.

Since last March, John has stepped up his online activities, and his latest project is Master Sessions with John Whelan.

Hi everyone! Lisa here, The first several sessions were GREAT and so the next Whelan Master Session is happening next Saturday, December 19th, 2:00 PM, with John's friend Kevin Burke.

Kevin Burke's fiddle playing has been at the forefront of traditional music since the 1970s. His far-reaching, influential solo album, “If the Cap Fits” and his work with such distinguished performers as Arlo Guthrie, Kate Bush, Christy Moore and the Bothy Band established him as a first-class musician.

Kevin’s contributions have received formal acknowledgement on both sides of the Atlantic where he has received several awards including the Montreux Festival’s “Grand Prix du Disque” (for his recording “Promenade” with Micheal O Domhnaill), Ireland’s “Gradam Ceoil” (Traditional Musician of the Year, 2016), and a National Heritage Fellowship, the USA’s highest honor for excellence in the folk and traditional arts. (Previous National Heritage Fellows include B.B. King, Doc Watson, and Bill Monroe.) Kevin has also been honoured by his adopted home state with his induction to the Oregon Music Hall of Fame.

Never one to be restricted by geography or genre, Kevin’s decades-long career has seen a number of innovative collaborations with notable musicians of differing styles – including Grammy winner, singer and instrumentalist Tim O’Brien; Liam O Maonlai, lead singer of the Hothouse Flowers; classical violinists Gilles Apap and Greg Ewer; Old Time favourites, The Foghorn String Band; renowned Irish bands Dervish, Solas and Lunasa, veteran Rock guitarist John Brennan (Poco, Chris Hillman Band) and iconic Irish folk singers, Andy Irvine and Paul Brady.

The Saturday master session is open to players and listeners of all levels, from anywhere in the world. It'll start at 2pm Pacific time, 5pm Eastern time, 10pm GMT, and run for two hours. The master sessions do have a requested $20 donation for attending and we need at least 30 attendees to ensure the musicians are adequately compensated, so please share this with anyone you know who might be interested. Just email John at whelanbx1@me.com for more details.

All attendees need to do is make their donation via paypal.me/buttonboxman or by Venmo to John-Whelan-37, and make sure to note that it is for Whelan Master Session #6. We'll send out the Zoom link and tune list for the master session on Friday, and any last-minute sign-ups will get the link and tune list about an hour before the session starts on Saturday.

Finally, John has announced Master Session #7, on December 26th, Boxing Day, we will have a line-up of fantastic box players. Easily sharable information on all John's master sessions lives here.

Thank you for supporting the cause!

Lisa

P.S. John's Wednesday 'Taking Time' slow session is still continuing as well - Check it out here: http://johnwhelanmusic.com/slow-session. It remains free and open to all, and we'll send out a tune list and Zoom link for tomorrow's 'Taking Time' Wednesday sessions. Email John at whelanbx1@me.com to get on the list or for more details.

Get more details on Johns website: http://johnwhelanmusic.com

Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy
A Celtic Family Christmas

Saturday, December 19th, 6:00 PM

Online Benefit Concert for the Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St, Livermore, CA

Canada's reigning couple of Celtic music, Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy, command the stage with their fierce fiddling in an explosive celebration of raw energy and passion that infuses their traditional heritage with their taste for the contemporary. The two share the legendary musical traditions of their hometowns of Lakefield, Ontario and Cape Breton, Nova Scotia with an show that highlights the unique talents, influences and stories of this amazing, growing clan. A remarkable performance of dancing, singing and music-making, it embodies everything that has shaped their musical careers and continues to delight audiences wherever they go.

For more details and Tickets, Click Here!. The concert is available from Saturday, December 19th, 6:00 PM till the end of December, watch when it's convenient for you right on this page under 'Event Info' and connect with live text chat messages.

'The most talented fiddle players of the modern era … when the duo takes the stage together there are hardly words to adequately describe the electricity that emerges. – Dayton Daily News
'There is a joy, a connection to land, heritage, to family, and the spirit of sharing music that comes through clearly' – Music Road

For more info, sights and sounds, visit www.natalieanddonnell.com or connect on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nataliemacmaster

The Bankhead Theater is a venue with 507 seats and full stage facilities for music, theater, dance, lectures, civic events and conferences. Both the Bothwell Arts Center and the Bankhead Theater are part of the Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center, an independent non-profit arts organization offering a diverse range of art opportunities to the Tri-Valley community and beyond.

The Black Donnellys

The Black Donnellys LIVE

Dave Rooney and Dave Browne
Saturday, December 19th, 8:00 PM

Facebook LIVE, from the RiRa @ Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, NV

Each Saturday, The Black Donnellys, (Dave Rooney and Dave Browne), stream their high-energy show to you from Las Vegas, NV as you stay safe at home.

Watch the Black Donnellys streaming show via Facebook LIVE by pointing your browser to the Black Donnellys Facebook Page, where you will find the little red LIVE button.

The Daves say:
Tune into our Residency Gig at Rira at the Las Vegas Mandalay Bay!! Join us and our audience for a live performance and a few Requests!!

Last year, the two Daves from Dublin had the crazy idea to attempt a new World Record: 60 shows. 50 states. 40 days. What could go wrong? Find out what happened along the road as their beloved Irish band, The Black Donnellys set out to break this ambitious world record when Vision Films and Frequency Pictures present An Irish Story: This Is My Home.

The film was released, on March 17th, Saint Patrick's Day, 2020 and is available on Amazon Prime, iTunes, and Vimeo. Here is a link to the WATCH IT NOW!

For more, check Dave Browne's Facebook Profile.

Margie Butler, lead vocals, harp, whistles, recorders
Paul Espinoza, vocals, guitar, accordion

Golden Bough Streaming shows

Sunday, December 20th @ 4:00 PM

Online via YouTube Live

Kathy Ross Sierra, fiddle, whistles

On Sunday, December 20th @ 4:00 PM Golden Bough will be performing rare versions of Celtic Songs of Winter and their unique take on popular Christmas carols. Free on their YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcs6LEcKDu0YiaimlHtZHDg with links for donations.

Golden Bough Facebook Page

Here a link to their many music videos

Rooted in the traditional music of the seven Celtic nations (Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, The Isle of Man, French Brittany and Spanish Galicia), Golden Bough has become a popular and in-demand group on both sides of the Atlantic. Since their formation in 1980, this trio of modern day minstrels has traveled great distances to numerous countries, to bring their music to enthusiastic folk fans the world over. Backing themselves on an array of acoustic instruments; Celtic harp, guitar, octave-mandolin, mandolin, accordion, violin, penny-whistle and bodhran, they blend their voices in the pristine harmonies that have become a Golden Bough trademark. To date they have released over 30 recordings. In the recording studio, as well as on stage, Golden Bough captures the essence and joy of traditional music.

All three Golden Bough bandmates, are well versed in all genres of traditional folk songs, and have recently added favorites of the American Folk Revival from the 50's-60's. From working on the Railroads to leaving on that Jet plane, Golden Bough brings you the songs America loves.

For those of you seeking an entertaining respite that offers a bit of history, virtuosic instrumentation, sweet and seamless vocals, the occasional yarn and irrepressible toe-tapping, seek no more. Golden Bough is your answer.

For more on Golden Bough, email margie@goldenboughmusic.com or check the Golden Bough Facebook Page, or the Golden Bough website.

Solstice at Newgrange

On Wednesday, December 16th, The Office of Public Works of Ireland posted:

The hugely significant Solstice Sunrise event will be live-streamed from within the Chamber, on the 20th, 21st and 22nd of December, so that everyone will be able to experience this wonderful phenomenon from any location around the world.

The live stream will be available in the player on this page, Winter Solstice at Newgrange 2020, from 08:45 UTC, Sunday December 20th, and for the following two mornings.

That is 12:45 AM, Sunday December 20th Pacific Standard Time here on the West Coast of the US.

Yule / Winter Solstice

Newgrange Event will be LIVE STREAMED!

Monday, December 21st, 2020 at 2:02 AM
Live Streamed from the inner chamber on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday

Officially the first day of winter, the Winter Solstice occurs when the North Pole is tilted 23.5 degrees away from the sun, which this year occurs on Monday, December 21st, 2020 at 2:02 AM PST. This is the longest night of the year, and the effect on the the local daylight hours is most pronounced in the highest latitudes. After the winter solstice, the hours of daylight get progressively longer until the summer solstice. Since ancient times, the winter solstice has been celebrated by northern peoples around the world as the beginning of the return of the sun's power, as hours of darkness transform into hours of light.

On the Winter Solstice every year, just after 9am, in Ireland, across the Boyne Valley from the ancient Newgrange site, and over a hill known locally as Red Mountain, the sun begins to rise. Given the right weather conditions, what follows is spectacular. At four and a half minutes past nine, the light from the rising sun strikes the front of Newgrange, and enters through the passage and roofbox.

For the next 14 minutes, a narrow, foot wide beam of sunlight stretches into the passage and on into the central chamber.

But this year, one of the direct observers will be a camera, which puts us all in luck, as that video will be Live Streamed, and anyone anywhere will be able to watch it LIVE! Here is a link to the Newgrange and Knowth Live Stream WebPage, where you will have three chances to watch this unique Live Stream Event: Winter Solstice at Newgrange 2020.

Amongst Germanic peoples, this season is known as Yule or Yuletide. Scholars have connected the original celebrations of Yule to the Wild Hunt, the god Odin, and the pagan Anglo-Saxon god Modraniht. The Talmud recognizes the winter solstice as 'Tekufat Tevet.' In China, the Dongzhi Festival is celebrated on the Winter Solstice by families getting together and eating special festive food.

Until the 16th century, the winter months were a time of famine in Northern Europe. Most cattle were slaughtered so that they wouldn't have to be fed during the winter, making the solstice a time when fresh meat was plentiful. Most celebrations of the winter solstice in Europe involved merriment and feasting. In pre-Christian Scandinavia, the Yule, lasted for 12 days celebrating the rebirth of the sun and giving rise to the custom of burning a Yule log.

In ancient Rome, the winter solstice was celebrated at the Feast of Saturnalia, to honor Saturn, the god of agricultural bounty. Lasting about a week, Saturnalia was characterized by feasting, debauchery and gift-giving. With Emperor Constantine's conversion to Christianity, many of these customs were later absorbed into Christmas celebrations.

Today, one of the most famous celebrations of the Solstice takes place in the ancient ruins of Stonehenge, England. Thousands of modern Druids and Pagans gather there to chant, dance and sing while waiting to see the spectacular sunrise.

We will gather virtually on ZOOM* for a ritual honoring the Sun's return, the God's re-birth. Please bring a candle to light during the Circle to symbolize keeping vigil through the long dark winter night. You'll want to have some food you like to eat when we 'feast'! 

For more information, please contact Nancy Buffum at nancybuffum@gmail.com 

*NOTE: To access the ZOOM link to this ritual, contact Christine  Patch-Lindsay at cplhealer@comcast.net  NO LATER than 3:00 PM, December 19th, 2020

Teachín Ceoil

Come in From the Cold

Wintery and Christmasy tunes and Fun Songs

Tuesday, December 22nd 7:00 PM
Online via Facebook Live

Come in from the Cold: Christmas Carols and Wintery Tunes with Kira and Company!

Welcome to our 10th concert streaming live from Teachín Ceoil! Jimmy Murphy is back! This month we've searched through tune books and online databases for tunes with names appropriate for the season. This concert is full of wintery and Christmasy tunes along with some fun songs to bring good cheer.

To attend, Click Here to go to Teachín Ceoil Facebook Page, and then look for the little red LIVE button.

Teachín Ceoil is more than just a house, it's a hub for concerts, sessions, lessons, workshops and Irish language in Los Angeles.

Check the Facebook Event. Donations appreciated via PayPal littleceolhouse@gmail.com (please select send to friend)

Celtic Thunder Christmas Concert - San Jose

Wednesday, December 23rd, at 7:00 PM

With the Holiday's just around the corner, and everyone begins to work on their holiday shopping list, what better way to make your holiday list complete, than to include Celtic Thunder a part of your Holiday Cheer? Get in the spirit of the Holidays and watch Celtic Thunder Christmas, the ONLY Christmas concert from Celtic Thunder! The concert streams December 23, 2020 at 7:00 PM, with additional bonus footage from the Celtic Thunder guys!

Get Tickets Here: https://www.showtix4u.com/event-details/43299 Note: Ticket purchase allows the bearer to view a Celtic Thunder Christmas concert on one device at a time.

Celtic Thunder Christmas is an online holiday celebration for all the family. The timeless Christmas concert brings together Celtic Thunder’s affinity for a great popular song with outstanding live performances, as they pay homage to cherished holiday favorites. Filmed in Poughkeepsie, NY in front of a live audience the show features Irishmen Damian McGinty, Keith Harkin, Paul Byrom, Ryan Kelly and Scotsman George Donaldson.

Celtic Thunder – Christmas is a diverse mix of international and Celtic holiday classics performed as always with the Celtic Thunder magic.

Isaac Alderson

Piper Sundays

Sundays at 11:00 AM
Southern California Uilleann Pipers Club

Online via Zoom
Join the Zoom Event: 

Event Website: http://socalpipers.com/piper_sunday.html  

Host Patrick D'Arcy says:
'It's every Sunday from 11:00 AM (PDT) for about 90 minutes. I try to get high profile Uilleann piper guests from Ireland and elsewhere. It's not so much a concert as it is a talk show with the guest playing a handful of tunes throughout. Drop by this Sunday to check it out. Our guest will be Isaac Alderson joining us from Chigago, IL.'

• Dec 27, 2020: Isaac Alderson — Details
• Jan 03, 2021: Ivan Goff — Details
• Jan 10, 2021: Jarlath Henderson — Details

Southern California Uilleann Pipers Club Facebook Events: https://www.facebook.com/SCUPC

Important! Watch this video first!

To be able to find the events, you will need to use the latest version of Zoom and know how to move from the 'lobby' to a 'breakout' room to and back. Bruce Reid has prepared this training video to show you how:

How to attend Camp Harmony on Zoom and navigate Breakout Rooms.

Camp Harmony New Years Camp

Thursday, December 31st 2020 through Sunday, January 3rd 2021
Registration is now open!

Online via Zoom

Camp Harmony New Years Camp hosted by the SFFMC is going online this year via Zoom and will take place Thursday, December 31st 2020 through Sunday, January 3rd 2021. You can sign up by filling out the registration form using this link: https://forms.gle/o7okgrbiDST9JxgL9

Please share the link above with folks near and far who may not yet be members of the SFFMC, as attendance will be open to all for the first time. So feel free to bring friends who are new and help us ring in the New Year!

As with in-person camp, we'll have Workshops, Jam Spaces, Dances, Games, Jokes, Stories, Friends, late-night singing, and of course, our very special New Year's Eve Celebration, brought online!

Leading workshops and other events is reserved for Folk Club members so be sure to confirm that you are a paid member and invite friends who would enjoy going to this online event, maybe to become members and lead something! Please visit the main website www.sffmc.org to become a member through the 'join us' tab.

And if you'd like to lead a workshop, dance, other activity, or perform in a concert this year, let us know within the registration form questions at the end of the form. Likewise, are you a wiz at Zoom? Let us know and help us fill a chore slot!

Check www.sffmc.org regularly for updates on zoom tutorials, what to plan for, and on workshop session spaces as they fill up early. For Questions, you can contact the registrars at onlinecampharmony@gmail.com.

Happy Hogmanay!
Elizabeth Ingber - Molly McLaughlin - Sara LeMesh

Scottish Hogmanay Celebration

Thursday, December 31st, 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM PST
(New Year's Eve in Scotland)

Online via Zoom

Join us this year as we 'bring in the bells' to celebrate Hogmanay in Scotland's time zone! At this special annual event, we usually open our doors to our Members, family and friends to bring in the new year at our historic Fire House at 1088 Green St, San Francisco, but this year, we will instead be presenting an online program to delight your senses from the comfort of your home.

Hogmanay is approaching fast! We would love for you to join us as we “Bring in the Bells” at this special online 2 hour event. Special guests / entertainers include the incredibly talented Elizabeth Ingber, Molly McLaughlin and Sara LeMesh! Sign up by December 15th to receive your gift.

Hogmanay isn't just any old shindig. It is one of the most legendary changing of year celebrations in the world. Like most Scottish holidays, Hogmanay goes hand in hand with countless customs and important marked traditions.

First-footing is perhaps the most widely practiced social ritual and deeply embedded tradition of Hogmanay. The moment the clock strikes midnight, lads and lassies across Scotland start beelining for the homes of loved ones, friends and families, bearing gifts and endless banter, providing good vibes for times ahead and to be the first across the threshold, as the first-footer sets the precedent for the brand new year.

During Hogmanay, gifts are given, each with their own specific meaning, as a token of good luck and vary from whisky, a black bun (fruit cake), shortbread, and nowadays, anything leftover in your pantry! Coal for warmth and salt for health was the traditional gifts of choice, just as communities in Dundee once brought a decorated herring! If you sign up by December 15th, we will have a special gift for you delivered to your home, including whisky and some other goodies. (Please be sure to provide your shipping address so we can make sure it gets to you in time).

Tickets are $30 per person. Sign up here to buy your HOGMANAY TICKETS by DECEMBER 15th in order to receive your gift.

If you have any questions about this event, please contact Irene Waldman, 1st Vice President @ 650-438-0370

Founded in 1863, The Saint Andrew’s Society of San Francisco is the oldest Scottish organization in the region. SASSF joins men and women of Scottish birth and those of the same heritage in a bond of culture and benevolent purpose. Check the website at saintandrewssocietysf.org.

Lark Camp

CANCELLED - SEE YOU IN 2021!
July 30th - August 7th, 2021

World Music, Song, and Dance Camp

Mendocino Woodlands State Park

Spend idyllic days and nights in the magical redwood forest filled with music, dance, and good times — that's the Lark Camp experience.

Click Here for the Video by Doug Plummer.

Take as many or as few of the workshops as you like; jam sessions 24 hours a day, big dances every evening. Plenty of good food, new friends, and musical stimulation for adults and families. Workshops for professional and beginner, alike.

Check out the Mendocino Woodlands website: Click Here

Visit http://larkcamp.org, Questions, email: registration@larkcamp.org or call (707) 397-5275 (LARK)