Marc Gunn

Celtic Music Magazine: Occasional Scotland

Todd Wiley — Thu, 05 Nov 2026 14:00:52 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

Celtophiles welcome! Once again it is Todd with your weekly dose of news. This week we have new episodes of our own Irish and Celtic Music Podcast & Celtic Christmas Music Podcast. As well as a way you can help fund the Celtic Christmas Podcast. We also have a short Kickstarter where you can own the album Come Adventure with Me on VINYL! We have also included a list of new Celtic albums from the past couple weeks. The other podcasts featured are Traveling in Ireland & the Copperplate Podcast. The articles are about an Irish-Nigerian family, a Scottish theatre showcasing a new-look Cinderella, and some big names giving items to auction for the Dublin Simon Community. The festival spotlight shines on the Scottish Gathering and Highland Games, taking place November 13 – 15 at the Salado Museum and College Park in Salado, TX. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #781: OCCASIONAL SCOTLAND

Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson, Clann An Drumma, McFloosey, Téada, Enda Reilly, Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald, The Occasionals, Clay Babies, Jay Michaels, Rebecca Hill and Charlie Stewart, Shooglenifty, Cats and Crows, MacCumhaill and the Gang, Syr, Gerry Maguire

Thanks to our Celtic Legends: Fuzzy, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Dan mcDade, Jeff Adelsberger, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Round Rock Image Creators, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

COME ADVENTURE WITH ME: CELTIC SCI-FI SONGS ON VINYL KICKSTARTER

Well, I finally did it. I launched a Kickstarter for Come Adventure With Me on Vinyl. You have 9 days to make a pledge. I'm not doing a long campaign because I don't want to spend all my time trying to sell something that, quite frankly, I don't think will get funded.
I'm not trying to be a naysayer. But I guess I'm concerned that not enough of you are interested in owning a vinyl record.
… yes… (yeah, I planted that you have Cdeeess… LOL)
But not vinyl. And that's okay.
I priced the album at just $25 so it's a beautiful piece of artwork if you want to own it. But no worries if you don't.
I will release the album no matter though. If I do a one-off printer, then I will sell them for $65. So you can save 60% if you're interested…
In the meantime, I need EIGHTY people willing to own a copy of this album on vinyl if I'm gonna print it.
Are you one of them?
Oh! And go read why I'm doing this on the Kickstarter page.
I wrote that with love. Thank you!

Pledge here!

HELP FUND THE 2026 CELTIC CHRISTMAS SEASON

For years, the Celtic Christmas Podcast has been the soundtrack to your holidays, a season of beautiful, independent Celtic Christmas music you won't hear anywhere else. No major label funds music like this; listeners like you do. This year we're raising $2,000 to fund the whole season: the new episodes, the mixing, the artwork, and the hosting that carries it all to your ears. When you give, you're not buying something. You're keeping something alive.
And we'll thank you with a gift. Donate $25 for a Celtic Christmas wooden ornament, $50 for our “A Celtic Christmas” compilation CD, or $100 for the ornament plus three Celtic compilation CDs. Prefer to give monthly? Become a patron for as little as $1 a month and get every episode early and ad-free. Give a gift, get a gift, and help keep the music playing.

celticchristmasmusic.net/donate

CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC #94: LIGHT A CANDLE IN THE WINDOW

Light a candle in the window. We’re repodcasting a Celtic Christmas episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. It’s Celtic Christmas Music #94
Cherish the Ladies, Adrianna Ciccone & Ellen Gibing, Ashley Davis, Jen Midkiff, Seán Heely, Marc Gunn, Joseph Carmichael, Dublin Gulch, Mary – Kate Spring Lee, Irish Christmas in America, Jesse Ferguson, Plunk Murray, Brad Tuck, Band O'Brothers, The Celtic Kitchen Party, Matt McGinn, Cedar Dobson

Listen here!

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

One Day I Climbed The Hill – by Juliette Lemoine & Chris Amer
Celtic Harp Tales – by Amelia Tokarska / Paweł Biliński
Leaving Home – by Tom Richardson
With Pick and Hammer – by Rod Driscoll
Enchanted Garden – by Chalmeris, Chris Palmer
Chapter Two – by The Bookends
Wylde Folk – by Shannon Pearl
Hedera Helix – by Amelia Lefler
The Amber Of The Forest Crown – by Vorlund

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

TRAVELING IN IRELAND: HOW MUCH OF IRELAND CAN YOU EXPLORE FROM KILLARNEY?

Southwest Ireland is one of the most popular regions for visitors, with Killarney National Park, the Ring of Kerry, and the Dingle Peninsula drawing travelers to this corner of the country.
But with so much to see and do, where you stay can make a big difference in how much time you spend exploring – and how much time you spend driving. So which town makes the best base for day trips: Killarney, Tralee, or Dingle?

Listen here

BROTHERS BRING IRISH-NIGERIAN FAMILY STORY TO HAMMERSMITH

THE LIVES of two brothers, and the grief of those who survived them, are at the heart of a performance coming to the Irish Cultural Centre in Hammersmith on Thursday, November 12.
STORM – An Irish-Nigerian Family Story brings together poet and playwright Gabriel Gbadamosi and his brother David to remember their older brother Storm, a gay, Black, Irish man, and their younger brother Nick.
Using poetry, family photographs, film and live music, Gabriel and David tell the story of their family’s life in London and beyond. They remember Storm’s courage, energy and capacity for love, and the devastating effect his death had on Nick…

To read more, go here!

COPPERPATE PODCAST 322

GERRY DVER, CARLOS, SWEENEY & McCARTIN, MIKE SHEEHY & ED BARRETT, GERRY HARRINGTON, MICK O’BRIEN & CAOIMHIN O’RAGHALLAIGH, GARADICE/ELEANOR SHANLEY, LAOISE KELLY, MICK MULVEY & SHANE MEEHAN, ANDY MARTYN, MICHAEL BANAHAN, KATHERINE LOUGHNANE, JOHN & JACINTA McEVOY, KAREN RYAN, THE OUTSIDE TRACK

Listen to the Show

SCOTTISH THEATRE PROMISING ‘VISUAL SURPRISES' IN NEW-LOOK CINDERELLA

The team behind this year’s Christmas show at the Citz hope to capture the audience’s imagination with a procession of theatrical tricks, writes Mark Fisher
It is always nice to feel welcome in a theatre, but this Christmas director Joanna Bowman wants to go one step further. In her staging of Cinderella at Glasgow’s Citizens Theatre, she is inviting everyone to the ball…

To read more, go here!

BONO, THE CORRS AND THE MEMORY OF GLEN HANSARD POWER A CHRISTMAS OF GIVING FOR DUBLIN HOMELESSNESS CHARITY

More than 200 Irish artists and household names, including Bono, The Corrs, Imelda May and Aidan Gillen, are donating signed items and original artwork to a charity auction for Dublin Simon Community. It arrives just days before a tribute album to Shane MacGowan, featuring a poignant new recording from the late Glen Hansard, lands with half its proceeds going to the same cause.
The fourth annual auction, called A Community of Hope, runs online through Gormleys from November 28 until December 9, according to Radio Nova. Hot Press reports that it will feature original works by artists including Paul Hughes, Gerard Byrne, Jane Belton, Jess Kelly, Solus and Guggi. Memorabilia from Camille O’Sullivan, Éanna Hardwicke and Liam Ó Maonlaí will also go under the virtual hammer…

To read more, go here!

SCOTTISH GATHERING AND HIGHLAND GAMES

COME CELEBRATE ALL THINGS SCOTTISH!
Join us November 13-15, 2026 for the 65th Scottish Gathering and Highland Games! A 3-day event filled with the skirl of the bagpipes and the wearing of the tartan!
Bagpipes and Drums! | Highland Dancers! | Scottish Athletics! | Men in Kilts! | Colorful Clan Tents! | Shopping, food and fun!
Some of the entertainers you could see are Hugh Morrison and Murder the Stout, Mark Clavey, Northfolk, and more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

November 5, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #781: Occasional Scotland

Mitchell Petersen — Thu, 05 Nov 2026 12:00:08 +0000

Scotland leads this hour. The Occasionals mark forty years of ceilidh dance music, a Glasgow harp and fiddle duo spins out a Gaelic river tune, and Shooglenifty bring the Acid Croft to Stamina Island. Syr adds Celtic folk rock from South Carolina, while Irish and Scottish threads weave together across the whole show. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #781. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson, Clann An Drumma, McFloosey, Téada, Enda Reilly, Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald, The Occasionals, Clay Babies, Jay Michaels, Rebecca Hill and Charlie Stewart, Shooglenifty, Cats and Crows, MacCumhaill and the Gang, Syr, Gerry Maguire

Marc Gunn, Téada, Shooglenifty, Enda Reilly, The Occasionals, Syr, Clann An Drumma, Rebecca Hill and Charlie Stewart

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now! All regular polls close on Friday, December 4, 2026 at 9 AM Eastern.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

0:02 – Intro: Tiffany Kerruish of Fynoderee Distillery on the Isle of Man

4:15 – Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson “The Geese in the Bog” from Once Through the Hall

7:50 – WELCOME

9:16 – Clann An Drumma “Scots Wha Hae” from Boudica's Revenge

12:38 – McFloosey “Kiss Kill or Marry Me” from Balscadden Bay

Pronunciation: Balscadden is “bal – SCAD – en.”

17:41 – Téada with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra conducted by Karen Ní Bhroin “James Murray's / Porthole of the Kelp / The Watchmaker / The Spinning Wheel (reels)” from Orchestrating 25

Pronunciation: Téada is “TAY – duh.” Karen Ní Bhroin is roughly “KAIR – en nee VRIN”

21:30 – Enda Reilly “The Roaring Cliffs of Moher” from The Mystery

24:12 – FEEDBACK

27:40 – Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald “Gealach Bhuidhe an Abachaidh (The Harvest Moon)” from Christina

Pronunciation (approximate): “GYAL – ukh VOO – yuh un AH – puh – khee.”

31:54 – The Occasionals “The Call of The Pipes” from The Occasionals at 40

34:36 – Clay Babies “Transom Jolly” from In Other Words

38:09 – Jay Michaels “The Lark in the Clear Air” from On a Quiet Street Where Old Ghosts Meet

40:53 – Rebecca Hill and Charlie Stewart “Abhainn Hotaroil” from Glas

Pronunciation (best guess): “AH – vin HOT – uh – roil.” Glas is “glass”

43:23 – THANKS

45:08 – Shooglenifty “Stamina Island” from Stamina Island

51:36 – Cats and Crows “The Tide and the Quay” from This Time Will Pass Anyway

56:34 – MacCumhaill and the Gang “The Old Hag of Galway” from 2

Pronunciation: MacCumhaill is “muh – COOL”

1:00:46 – Syr “Coronach” from Ruin

Pronunciation: Syr is “sire.” Coronach is “COR – uh – nukh”

1:04:17 – CLOSING

1:05:05 – Gerry Maguire “An Cú Abú – Rise Up”

Pronunciation: An Cú Abú is “un KOO uh – BOO”

1:08:41 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Here's a quick note about a local win. A lot of city streetlights still run on older high – pressure sodium lamps. When towns swap those out for LEDs, the energy use of those lights has dropped by roughly half or more in Department of Energy demonstration projects. LEDs also last longer, so there are fewer repair trips. That's real money coming back into a local budget.

The good news is that this is one of the easiest upgrades a community can make. Ask your city or county public works office whether your streetlights have been switched to LED. If they haven't, a friendly email or a few minutes at a council meeting can put it on the agenda. Small local decisions add up, and brighter, cheaper streets are a great place to start.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic songwriter and musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories, your backstage pass to Celtic songwriters and the stories they’d only tell you after a few pints.

Every artist on this show is an independent voice, sharing their music from a kitchen, a studio, or a little stage near you. When a song or a tune moves you, tell them. Send an email and say you’re listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. A few kind words can fuel a musician all season long.

This is more than a radio show. It’s a gathering of people who love Celtic music and culture, and like any good gathering, it thrives when everyone brings something. Support the musicians you love. Buy a CD, an Album Pin, a shirt, or a digital download. Or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

CELTIC PODFEST AND NERDY ARTS MARKET

Mark your calendar. The Second Annual Celtic PodFest and Nerdy Arts Market is coming to The Lost Druid Brewery in Avondale Estates, Georgia. It’s Sunday, February 28, from 11 am until 6 pm the morning.

Enjoy live Celtic music from Olivia Bradley, The BorderCollies, and May Will Bloom, plus a solo set from me, The Celtfather. Wander the Nerdy Arts Market, packed with independent makers. Grab a pint, meet the artists, and spend the day with your Celtic community.

Get all the details at celticmusic.org

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood – burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one – of – a – kind feel you won't find anywhere else.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

Every episode of this podcast gets made because of our patrons. Your monthly support helps me promote the show so more people find great Celtic music. It buys music from the artists we feature. It even covers the server costs that keep everything running. Thank you.

Patrons also get to be part of a friendly community of Celtic music fans, with a place to chat about the music we all love. There’s free stuff too, like Emerald Wave, our 2026 field guide to modern Celtic music.

Thanks to our Celtic Legends: Fuzzy, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Dan mcDade, Jeff Adelsberger, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Round Rock Image Creators, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Every year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2027, we're hiking the Isle of Skye. Head on over to http://celticinvasion.com/.

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

What are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Sean Malloy of Band O'Brothers emailed: “Hi Marc,

I filled out the Google form as part of the permission process, but I felt I should give you some more info about the songs.

“Merrymeeting” is the lone instrumental on the album. The style, however, is not what I would classify as “Irish” or “Celtic.” Still, Anthony did a lovely job with this composition and we're quite proud of it.

“Elm City Ramble” is a song about our beloved nearby city of New Haven, and it names several local places and highlights the terrific New Haven St. Patrick's Day parade, so it's VERY fun and in line with your podcast BUT each chorus ends with the line “haul our asses outta here,” which might be a bit too risque for your typical repertoire. If you don't play it on the podcast, at least give it a listen – it's a fun one. There's a video for it, too

“Bygones” is very catchy, but again, NOT the most Celtic sounding thing. More of a rock/pop feel to it. But it's a banger!

“Ice Keeps” is about the incredible 1914 Antarctic expedition and survival mission of Sir Ernest Shackleton and his crew aboard the doomed ship Endurance.

“Tiny Hands” was written by Jeff as a surprise song for the father – daughter dance at the wedding of his daughter Meghan last fall. It's a beautiful song about a girl becoming a woman, told from the perspective of an adoring father.

“The Legend of Pat McGroin” is about Steve and Anthony's father, Pat, who occasionally plays accordion with us. The DePaolo boys took a golf trip to Ireland earlier this year, and that trip gave Anthony all the material for that song. Pat actually plays on it with us. Gotta love getting dad into the act!

Those are the most pertinent notes for now. Please let me know if you have any questions at all. We hope you can fit some of these songs on the podcast.

We're also hoping that you can play some of our songs from our Christmas EP on one of the Christmas shows this year

All this stuff can also be accessed via our website: https://www.bandobrothers.com/

Celtic Christmas Music #94: Light a Candle in the Window

Mitchell Petersen — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 00:23:32 +0000

Light a candle in the window. We’re repodcasting a Celtic Christmas episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. It’s Celtic Christmas Music #94

Cherish the Ladies, Adrianna Ciccone & Ellen Gibing, Ashley Davis, Jen Midkiff, Seán Heely, Marc Gunn, Joseph Carmichael, Dublin Gulch, Mary – Kate Spring Lee, Irish Christmas in America, Jesse Ferguson, Plunk Murray, Brad Tuck, Band O'Brothers, The Celtic Kitchen Party, Matt McGinn, Cedar Dobson

2026 FUNDRAISER FOR CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC

Fund the Celtic Christmas Season The 2026 Celtic Christmas season is here, and it runs on listeners like you. Help us reach our $2,000 goal. Give a gift, get a gift, or become a patron for as little as $1 a month. celticchristmasmusic.net/donate

If you would like to donate go to CelticChristmasMusic.net/donate

WELCOME TO CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC

Hello, and happy November.

Now, some folks say the holiday season doesn't begin until after Thanksgiving. And some folks start the very moment the calendar turns to November. I'll let you decide which kind of person you are. But I'll say this: if you're listening to Celtic Christmas music on the first of November, you are exactly my kind of person.

Welcome to the Celtic Christmas Music. I'm Marc Gunn, the Celtfather.

Today I'm opening the vault again. This is a treasured show from my weekly Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, first shared back in 2024. It's called “Light a Candle in the Window,” and it's a full, glorious hour of independent Celtic Christmas music.

You'll hear Cherish the Ladies, Ashley Davis, Irish Christmas in America, Matt McGinn, Cedar Dobson, and so many more. There's even a little song of my own in the mix. Candles in the window, carols by the fire, and the warmth of the season settling in.

Our season fundraiser is just getting started, and I'll tell you exactly where we stand right after the music. For now, pour something warm, settle in, and enjoy “Light a Candle in the Window.”

—

Light a candle in the window and listen to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #690. Subscribe now!

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items for Celtic music and culture online. Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025

This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music of 2025 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on Spotify to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

1:20 – Cherish the Ladies “Deck the Halls / John Cliffords # 1 / Jingle Bells” from Cherish the Ladies Ultimate Christmas Mix

4:21 – WELCOME

6:05 – Adrianna Ciccone & Ellen Gibling “Tomorrow Shall be my Dancing Day / The Sussex Carol” from The Pear Tree

7:48 – Ashley Davis “Song for a Winter's Night” from Songs of the Celtic Winter II

11:45 – Jen Midkiff (she/her) “Christ Child Lullaby – – The Wexford Carol” from single

17:00 – Seán Heely “Trinquez, Trinquez” from So Merry as We Have Been

20:36 – Marc Gunn “Light a Candle in the Window” from Marc Gunn’s Patreon

23:29 – FEEDBACK

25:35 – Joseph Carmichael “Snowdrift” from single

30:06 – Dublin Gulch “Christmas In Carrick” from The Best Of A Celtic Cowboy Christmas (Double Album)

32:34 – Mary – Kate Spring Lee “Away in A Manger/Baloo Lammy” from Carol of the Child

35:44 – Irish Christmas in America “The Wexford Carol” from A Long Way From Home

39:25 – Jesse Ferguson “The Holly and the Ivy” from A Bard of Cornwall Christmas

41:13 – THANKS

43:42 – Plunk Murray “Hanukah Oh Hanukah” from Christmas in the Pub

46:35 – Brad Tuck “A Song for Christmastime” from Songs for Christmastime

50:02 – Band O'Brothers “Christmas Time Again” from On Christmas Day

52:43 – The Celtic Kitchen Party “Huge on the Luge” from One Celtic Christmas

55:16 – Matt McGinn “To the New Year” from Behind Every Door

59:44 – CLOSING

1:00:42 – Cedar Dobson “Silent Night” from A Whistle Wonderland: Christmas Melodies in a Celtic Style

1:04:28 – CREDITS

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and talk with others about climate change. What are you doing to combat climate change? Let me know what you’re doing. Start a discussion with someone today.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

Wasn’t that a beautiful way to start November?

Every artist you just heard is an independent musician, making Celtic Christmas music that no major label would ever pay for. This music lives in very few places in this world, and this little show is one of them.

Which brings me to why I’m asking for your help today.

We’re in the final days of our opening fundraiser. Our goal is two thousand dollars, and right now we’re at $267. Every milestone we hit brings another brand-new episode to the season, more of the music you love, all the way through to Christmas.

That last push is up to you.

Becoming a patron is the best way to help, and it starts at just one dollar a month. Here’s something that still amazes me: a ten-dollar-a-month pledge adds a hundred and twenty dollars to the season. Just seventeen generous patrons at that level would fund the whole thing. You could be one of the seventeen. And every patron gets each episode early and ad-free.

Prefer to give once? A one-time gift is just as welcome, and it comes with a thank-you gift, a magnet, a CD, or the whole Celtic bundle.

Head to celticchristmasmusic.net/donate. Give a gift, get a gift, and help us cross that finish line.

To everyone who has already given, thank you from the bottom of my heart. You are the reason this music keeps playing. Nollaig shona daoibh. Merry Christmas. And the moment we hit that goal, I’ll be back with something brand new.

Nollaig Shona Daoibh!

#celticchristmas #celticchristmasmusic

Celtic Music Magazine: Celtic Halloween Interview with Louise Bichan

Todd Wiley — Thu, 29 Oct 2026 13:00:25 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

Hello all it is Todd once again. This week we have new episodes of our own Irish and Celtic Music Podcast, Pubsongs & Stories, & the Celtic Christmas Music Podcast. We also have a way you can help support the Celtic Christmas season. The other podcasts we showcase are House of Legends & Celt in a Twist. The articles are about Ireland sharing its Home of Halloween message, 11 Scottish Spirits, & Cardiff’s Spectacular Halloween House. The festival spotlight shines brightly on the Austin Celtic Festival. Which takes place November 7 & 8, at Pioneer Farms in Austin, TX. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #780: CELTIC HALLOWEEN INTERVIEW WITH LOUISE BICHAN

Tan and Sober Gentlemen, Clann An Drumma, Tallymoore, Adam Agee & Jon Sousa, Niamh Dunne, Louise Bichan, Across The Pond, Mary – Grace Autumn Lee, Brobdingnagian Bards, Willos’ & Massimo Giuntini, House of Hamill, Seán Heely, Marys Lane, Aaron Dolan, The Bordercollies, Matt & Shannon Heaton

Thanks to our newest Patrons of the Podcast: Band o’Brothers

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

PUB SONGS & STORIES #319: THE DEAD WON’T REST: UNQUIET GRAVE AND BINNORIE-O

A ghost who won’t let the dead rest. A drowned sister and a harp made of bone. And a toast to good health. Pub Songs & Stories brings you the stories behind the songs, from the heart of the Celtic pub scene. Music from House of Hamill, Kilted Kings, Louise Bichan.

Listen Here

HELP FUND THE 2026 CELTIC CHRISTMAS SEASON

For years, the Celtic Christmas Podcast has been the soundtrack to your holidays, a season of beautiful, independent Celtic Christmas music you won't hear anywhere else. No major label funds music like this; listeners like you do. This year we're raising $2,000 to fund the whole season: the new episodes, the mixing, the artwork, and the hosting that carries it all to your ears. When you give, you're not buying something. You're keeping something alive.
And we'll thank you with a gift. Donate $25 for a Celtic Christmas wooden ornament, $50 for our “A Celtic Christmas” compilation CD, or $100 for the ornament plus three Celtic compilation CDs. Prefer to give monthly? Become a patron for as little as $1 a month and get every episode early and ad-free. Give a gift, get a gift, and help keep the music playing.

celticchristmasmusic.net/donate

CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC PODCAST #93: CELTIC CHRISTMAS CAROLS & SONGS WITH IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

We’re repodcasting a Celtic Christmas episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. +It’s Celtic Christmas Music #93
The Gothard Sisters, Brad Tuck, The Chivalrous Crickets, The McDades, Mad Maudlin, Brendan Monaghan, The Langer's Ball, The Sternwheelers, Scythian, Corey Purcell, Drumspyder, Crossed Cannons, Clare Cunningham, Alisa Marie, Bart Zeal, Plunk Murray, Ashley Davis, Anne Roos & David Blonski, Enda Reilly

Listen Here

HOUSE OF LEGENDS: WORLD MYTHS & LEGENDS – EPISODE 103: THE TALES OF THE BUDDHA & YASODHARA 1

A retelling of the first story of the Buddha and his wife Yasodhara, in a verse style inspired by Middle English alliterative verse.
If these stories speak to you, you're welcome to journey deeper into myth with me.
Start with my free full-colour Celtic Mythology Handbook, available here. You'll get access to regular mythic writings from me.
Or you can start with one of my books. Each one is a full immersion in Celtic Dreamtime.
Thanks for being part of House of Legends.

Listen here

IRELAND SHARES ITS ‘HOME OF HALLOWEEN’ MESSAGE WITH THE WORLD

Ireland is launching a massive global campaign to remind travelers that it is the true birthplace of Halloween, aiming to draw millions of American and international visitors to its ancient autumn festivals.
The “Home of Halloween” initiative, run by Tourism Ireland, targets the U.S., Canada, Great Britain, and Europe. It highlights the island's 2,000-year-old Celtic roots, specifically the ancient festival of Samhain, where modern Halloween traditions began…

To read more, go here!

CELT IN A TWIST: OCTOBER 27, 2026

Breaking new Celtic creativity is what we do at Celt In A Twist! Join Patricia this week for Shovel Dance Collective, an envelope-pushing 9 piece from London, mixing classical contemporary with free improv on Everything In Readiness, fiddle music from Paisos Catalans by Coloma Bertran PLUS the sublime O Carolan’s Farewell from Celtic Ground by Peter Thomas and Stevon Russell, a tribute to Ireland’s greatest harpist!

Listen to the Show

11 SCOTTISH SPIRITS TO TOAST HALLOWEEN – INCLUDING DEVIL’S CASK WHISKY

With Halloween just around the corner, we take a look at some spooky Scottish spirits to enjoy this October 31.
With Halloween taking place on a Saturday this year, many of us might be throwing a party or just looking to toast the occasion with a drink or two. Luckily there are a few new spooky spirits in which to do so including a few new whiskies…

To read more, go here!

CARDIFF'S SPECTACULAR HALLOWEEN HOUSE IS BACK AND SPOOKIER THAN EVER

For the sixth year running, Cardiff's famous Halloween house is back with decorations set to give you a fright. The fear factor has been upped this year with spooky skeletons scaling the house in Llandaff.
Haunting characters surround the house, some of which you may recognise, as hundreds of visitors stop by to see the elaborate themed decorations throughout October.
Since 2020, homeowners Danny and Carmela Hargreaves decorate their home and garden on Cardiff Road, inviting people of all ages to enjoy the spectacle. ..

To read more, go here!

AUSTIN CELTIC FESTIVAL

The Austin Celtic Festival is a premier celebration of Celtic culture, music, and arts, held annually in Austin, Texas.
This vibrant festival brings together top-tier performers, musicians, dancers, and artists from around the world to showcase the rich traditions of Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and other Celtic nations.
Some of the entertainers you will see are The Tunechasers, The Prodigals, The yokes, and many more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

October 29, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #780: Celtic Halloween Interview with Louise Bichan

Mitchell Petersen — Thu, 29 Oct 2026 11:00:03 +0000

Orkney – born fiddler Louise Bichan joins the show to talk about Binnorie, her third solo album, arriving October 30 on Adhyâropa Records. It grew out of her All Hallows’ Eve live show and gathers Scottish folk tales, trowie legends, and eerie ballads. Three tracks from the album anchor an hour of Halloween music from Scotland, Ireland, and beyond. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #780. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Tan and Sober Gentlemen, Clann An Drumma, Tallymoore, Adam Agee & Jon Sousa, Niamh Dunne, Louise Bichan, Across The Pond, Mary – Grace Autumn Lee, Brobdingnagian Bards, Willos’ & Massimo Giuntini, House of Hamill, Seán Heely, Marys Lane, Aaron Dolan, The Bordercollies, Matt & Shannon Heaton

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

Voting is important. Whether for the podcast or for your government. I’ll tell you why.

We visited the canyons on family vacation at the start of October.

A woman at Hell's Backbone Grill in Boulder, Utah, told me about a couple who love the land as much as we did. But didn’t realize their voting hurt the land they loved

They didn't know their candidate's record on public lands.

In July, Grand Staircase – Escalante lost about 90% of its protection.

One election choice. And some of the land they loved was no longer available.

They just didn't have the full picture.

We need these lands federally protected.

Early voting in Georgia runs through October 30. Election Day is November 3.

The climate is on every ballot.

Please take ten minutes today. Look up your candidates. Then vote.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

0:02 – Intro: Louise Bichan

0:10 – Tan and Sober Gentlemen “Samhain’s March” from Regressive Folk Music
Pronunciation: Samhain = SOW – in (rhymes with “cow”)

2:58 – WELCOME

4:40 – Clann An Drumma “Samhain” from Boudica’s Revenge
Pronunciation: Boudica = BOO – dih – kah

7:36 – Tallymoore “The Sons of Molly Maguire” from Drive

11:30 – Adam Agee & Jon Sousa “Maids of the Mourne Shore / Niel Gow’s Lament for the Death of his Second Wife” from Suantraí
Pronunciation: Suantraí = SOON – tree

19:12 – Niamh Dunne “When Autumn Comes” from Portraits
Pronunciation: Niamh = NEEV

22:05 – FEEDBACK

25:01 – INTERVIEW – Louise Bichan

31:38 – Louise Bichan “Greenwood Sidie – O” from Binnorie.
Pronunciation: Binnorie = bin – OR – ee

37:12 – INTERVIEW – About the Album

41:28 – Louise Bichan “Trowie Tale” from Binnorie.
Pronunciation: Trowie = TROW – ee (rhymes with “cow – ee”)

45:32 – INTERVIEW – Rapid Fire Questions

48:58 – Louise Bichan “Spooky Night Cat” from Binnorie

53:01 – INTERVIEW – Closing

53:31 – Across The Pond “October Winds” from Little Beggarman

57:01 – Mary – Grace Autumn Lee “Autumn’s Fall: Drummond Castle / Brendan Tonra’s / The Yellow Wattle (Jigs)” from Eyre

1:01:21 – Brobdingnagian Bards “Dragon’s Graveyard” from Another Faire to Remember
Pronunciation: Brobdingnagian = brob – ding – NAG – ee – un

1:03:52 – Willos’ & Massimo Giuntini “The Ghost” from From Now On

Pronunciation: Giuntini = joon – TEE – nee

1:09:09 – House of Hamill “Unquiet Grave” from Wildfire

1:13:49 – THANKS

1:15:29 – Seán Heely “Dr. Midnight, Death, and the 10th Life” from Dramagical

1:19:27 – Marys Lane “Road Less Traveled / Harvest Home” from Wild Unknown

1:22:29 – Aaron Dolan “The Banshee’s Wail: Lament for the Departed” from Farewell to Tír na nÓg
Pronunciation: Tír na nÓg = teer na NOHG

1:23:35 – The Bordercollies “Twa Corbies” from To The Hills and Back
Pronunciation: Twa Corbies = twah KOR – beez

1:27:08 – CLOSING

1:28:49 – Matt & Shannon Heaton “Buried My Wife and Danced on Her Grave / Paddy Fahey’s / Aherne’s Egg (Jigs)” from Whirring Wings.

1:33:00 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Early voting is open in many states right now. It’s a great time to think about the power bills and the air in your own neighborhood.

Here’s some good news. According to Wall Street firm Lazard, solar and onshore wind are still the lowest – cost new sources of electricity in the U.S., even without subsidies.

Many of the people who decide how your power gets made are on your local ballot. That means city councils, county commissions, state legislators, and in nine states this year, the utility commission that sets your electric rates.

So before you vote, look up where candidates stand on clean energy and a healthy environment. Early voting dates vary by state, and Election Day is November 3. Find yours at vote.gov.

Thanks for listening, and thanks for voting.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

Every artist on this show is an independent voice, sharing their music from a kitchen, a studio, or a little stage near you. When a song or a tune moves you, tell them. Send an email and say you’re listening on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. A few kind words can fuel a musician all season long.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Pull up a chair. The music is about to begin.

CELTIC PODFEST AND NERDY ARTS MARKET

Mark your calendar. The Second Annual Celtic PodFest and Nerdy Arts Market is coming to The Lost Druid Brewery in Avondale Estates, Georgia. It’s Sunday, February 28, from 11 am until 6 pm.

Get all the details at celticmusic.org

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

Thanks to our newest Patrons of the Podcast: Band o’Brothers

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

In 2027, we're hiking the Isle of Skye. Head on over to http://celticinvasion.com/.

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Keith Muhlenkamp emailed: “Hello Marc!

I've been listening to the podcast since the original songhenge days, but have never reached out before today. I just finished listening to the Celtic Protest Songs episode, and I wanted to say thank you. I really enjoyed the back stories of the songs, and how they're especially relevant today. I increased my subscription, to help offset any losses you have as a result of that episode. Hopefully there won't be many! Thanks for speaking up regardless.

I listen to the podcast while doing many things! From planting a garden to harvesting ducks to having a beer with friends, the podcast is a consistent companion. Thanks again for sharing this wonderful, powerful music.

If your hip can handle it and you find yourself in Portland, Oregon, I'll happily take you for a run and a beer! ”

Woodland Folk sent a bunch of pictures:

Mary Donahue emailed back in March: “Hi Marc,

I'm glad you reached out as I have been meaning to email you specifically about the protest songs episode. I love getting this podcast on a regular basis, it is joyful and reminds me to continue to celebrate my deep Irish roots. But Episode 749 was really special. Besides loving that you opened with the Dropkick Murphys, the song selection reminded me that our ancestors lived through horrific times, such as those we are currently experiencing, and survived to write songs for us to remember and honor their hard times and ultimate successes.

I found that episode to be encouraging and inspirational. And thank you for reminding us to work to save our planet and our democracy, even when others don't agree with this sentiment. Please keep up the great work, I appreciate all that you do!”

Pub Songs & Stories #319: The Dead Won’t Rest: Unquiet Grave and Binnorie-O

Mitchell Petersen — Tue, 27 Oct 2026 10:00:26 +0000

A ghost who won’t let the dead rest. A drowned sister and a harp made of bone. And a toast to good health. Pub Songs & Stories brings you the stories behind the songs, from the heart of the Celtic pub scene. Music from House of Hamill, Kilted Kings, Louise Bichan.

This is Pub Songs & Stories #319

0:20 – House of Hamill “Unquiet Grave” from Wildfire

5:00 – WELCOME TO PUB SONGS & STORIES

Your backstage pass to Celtic songwriters and the stories they’d only tell you after a few pints. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic songwriter and also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

If you’re new to the show, please follow us. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather.

5:46 – TODAY’S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY MY GUNN RUNNERS OF PATREON

The regular music business is beholden to big corporations that are raising ticket prices and making the business ever more difficult. But with your help, I don’t have to worry about that stuff. I make music, podcasts, videos, and blogs. I share them with you. In return, you show a little support by pledging as little as $5 per month to help me keep doing what I do.

HERE’S WHAT’S NEW ON PATREON IN OCTOBER

7:20 – CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC

The podcast launches on October 25. I dug into the archives of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast as part of a 2026 Fundraiser. The show is trying to raise $2000 to cover all of the expenses of putting on the show. If you would like to donate go to CelticChristmasMusic.net/donate

9:21 – BATTLE OF THE BARD SONGS

Brobdingnagian Bards new podcast series is now live. In this first series The Bards pick their favorite Irish Pub Songs, then battle them out until a winner is picked. BardBootlegs.com

9:58 – UPCOMING SHOWS

Oct 31: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Atlanta, Ga
Nov 7: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Atlanta, Ga
Nov 6 & 8: CONjuration, Duluth, Ga
Nov 14: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Atlanta, Ga
Nov 28: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Atlanta, Ga
Dec 5: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Atlanta, Ga
Dec 6: Nerdy Wonderland, Avondale Estates, Ga

11:06 – PUB SONGS & STORIES VIDEO

Raise your glass: here’s a toast to good health, good friends, and the craythur that calls us all to the pub. Welcome to Pub Songs & Stories audio edition. I share a song I’ve recorded followed by the story behind it.

11:39 – Kilted Kings “Sláinte Mhaith” from Flower of Scotland

Slainte mhaith. Slainte mhaith

Here's to your good health one and all

If you're soul feels rather thirsty

And you hear the craythur call

Raise up your glass

Sing Slainte mhaith

Many times in my life

I forgot the kindness code

I reaped the sorry seeds that I sowed

But when I gave, instead of took

That's when my spirit growed

My charity turned into liquid gold

Your work weeks’s a bare

You’re feeling rather low

You head down to the pub to watch a show

There the singer makes you smile

And the music makes you glow

Go to KiltedKings.com before you go

If there’s a song you’d like to see me perform, email follow@celtfather to make a live song request. Some, I will post here on the podcast. Some will be video only.

13:41 – STORY: Sláinte Mhaith

19:42 – TODAY’S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don’t see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos.

Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com.

Come hike with me on the Isle of Skye in 2027.

20:39 – STORY FROM LOUISE BICHAN

Louise Bichan grew up in the Orkney islands off the north coast of Scotland, and she picked up the fiddle when she was just seven years old. She sharpened her skills in Glasgow’s session scene while studying at the Glasgow School of Art, then earned a scholarship to Berklee College of Music in Boston. Today she’s a Scottish musician and photographer living in the United States, and she uses both to tell stories, old and new. Her music blends traditional and classical arrangements, and it’s thoughtful, curious, and playful all at once.

22:11 – Louise Bichan “Binnorie-O” from Binnorie-O

26:48 – CREDITS

Thanks for listening to Pub Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen.

You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list at follow@celtfather to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I’m performing.

Sláinte, and thanks for listening.

Join the Quest and Sing Along at www.pubsong.com!

Celtic Christmas Music Podcast #93: Celtic Christmas Carols & Songs with Irish & Celtic Music Podcast

Mitchell Petersen — Sun, 25 Oct 2026 21:00:53 +0000

We’re repodcasting a Celtic Christmas episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. +It’s Celtic Christmas Music #93

The Gothard Sisters, Brad Tuck, The Chivalrous Crickets, The McDades, Mad Maudlin, Brendan Monaghan, The Langer's Ball, The Sternwheelers, Scythian, Corey Purcell, Drumspyder, Crossed Cannons, Clare Cunningham, Alisa Marie, Bart Zeal, Plunk Murray, Ashley Davis, Anne Roos & David Blonski, Enda Reilly

2026 FUNDRAISER FOR CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC

The next podcast launches on October 25. I dug into the archives of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast as part of a 2026 Fundraiser. The show is trying to raise $2000 to cover all of the expenses of putting on the show.

If you would like to donate go to CelticChristmasMusic.net/donate

0:02 – WELCOME TO CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC

Greetings, and welcome to the Celtic Christmas Podcast. I'm Marc Gunn, the Celtfather, and I am so glad you're here.

The season is just beginning, and I wanted to open it with something special. What you're about to hear is a fantastic Christmas show that was originally released on our companion Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. It first aired back in 2023 on my weekly show. And it is a full hour and more of gorgeous, joyful, independent Celtic Christmas music.

You'll hear the Gothard Sisters, Scythian, the McDades, Brendan Monaghan, Ashley Davis, and so many more. Songs by the fireside, carols with a Celtic heart, and a few surprises along the way.

Now, before we dive in, let me be honest with you about something.

This show runs on your support. Brand new episodes are coming in November and December, and making them takes real resources. An engineer to mix every track. An artist for the show art. Hosting, promotion, and the hours it takes to pull it all together.

So right now, we are running our season fundraiser. And becoming a patron is the single best way to keep this music coming. It starts at just one dollar a month. For a single dollar, you get every new episode early, before anyone else, and ad-free versions of them all. And you become part of the reason this season happens.

If this show has ever brought you a little joy, this is your moment to be part of it. Just go to patreon.com/celticchristmas

Alright. Pour something warm, settle in, and enjoy Celtic Christmas 2023.

—

Nollaig shona daoibh! Enjoy Irish & Celtic Christmas music for 2023 on show #640.

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2023

This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create next year's Best Celtic music of 2023 episode. Vote Now!

You can also follow our playlists on Spotify and YouTube. These feature the top songs two weeks after the polls open. It also makes it easier for you to add these artists to your own playlists.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

1:49 – The Gothard Sisters “Here We Come A Caroling” from A Celtic Christmas

5:04 – WELCOME

6:56 – Brad Tuck “The Christmas Ornament” from Songs for Christmastime

10:37 – The Chivalrous Crickets “Carol Set – Sussex Carol / Bring a Torch Isabella / In dulci jubilo / Ding Dong Merrily on High” from A Chivalrous Christmas

16:07 – The McDades “Dreaming on a Yuletide Night” from A Winter Collection

18:34 – Mad Maudlin “The Snowy Path” from Empty Chairs

22:15 – Brendan Monaghan “The Snow Fell Down” from Lovers Always Win

25:55 – FEEDBACK

27:30 – The Langer's Ball “Christmas in Carrick” from Single – 2023

30:02 – The Sternwheelers “No Room For A Christmas Tree” from Fairytale of New York

34:18 – Scythian “I Saw Three Ships” from Christmas Out at Sea

37:28 – Corey Purcell “Arthur McBride” from Undaunted

43:28 – Drumspyder “Winter Nights” from Sunne and Mona

47:33 – Crossed Cannons “I'm Stuck in the Chimney” from A Pirate Christmas Story

50:21 – Clare Cunningham “Feel Good Christmas” from Feel Good Christmas

53:45 – THANKS

56:04 – Alisa Marie “O'Carolan's Cup” from Winter Harp (by the fireside)

58:10 – Bart Zeal “Yule” from December Celebrations

1:00:48 – Plunk Murray “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” from Christmas in the Pub

1:04:57 – Anne Roos & David Blonski “A Winter's Dance” from A Winter's Dance

1:09:35 – Ashley Davis (feat. Colin Farrell) “The Snows of Marrakesh” from Songs of the Celtic
Winter II

1:13:08 – Enda Reilly “Tá An Nollaig Linn” from Christmas is With Us (Tá An Nollaig Linn)

1:15:58 – CLOSING

1:18:48 – The Celtic Kitchen Party “Jingle Bells” from One Celtic Christmas

1:22:09 – CREDITS

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn.

This podcast is here to build our diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. Musicians rely on your support to keep making music. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

If you are a Celtic musician or in a Celtic band, then please submit your band to be played on the podcast. You don’t have to send in music or an EPK. Just complete the permission form at 4celts.com.

Do you want to enjoy more Celtic Christmas Music? We have a companion podcast that only runs during the last couple o’months of the year. It’s called Celtic Christmas Music. There are over 70 episodes in the feed by some of the best independent Celtic bands with Christmas music. Patrons of that podcast also enjoy music – only episodes. That’s a lovely way to enjoy Christmas music during the holiday.

You can also pick up a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music while you’re there. Email gift@bestcelticmusic

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

You are amazing. It is because of your generosity that you get to hear so much great Celtic music each and every week.

Your kindness pays for our engineer, graphic designer, Celtic Music Magazine editor, promotion of the podcast, and allows me to buy the music I play here. It also pays for my time creating the show each and every week.

As a patron, you get music – only episodes before regular listeners, vote in the Celtic Top 20, stand – alone stories, and you get a private feed to listen to the show. All that for as little as $1 per episode.

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Bill Mandeville, Marti Meyers, Brenda, Karen, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Carol Baril, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every week, $1, $5, $26. Make sure to cap how much you want to spend per month.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Wasn't that a joy? Every artist you just heard is an independent musician, making Celtic Christmas music that no big record label would ever pay for. Music that, honestly, lives in very few places in this world. This show is one of them.

And here is why I'm asking for your help today. Starting right now, we are kicking off our season fundraiser. Let me be straight with you about what we're doing and why.

Our goal is two thousand dollars. That number funds the entire season. The brand new episodes coming in November and December. The engineer who mixes them. The artist who makes them beautiful. The hosting that carries them to your ears. All of it.

But here is the real reason. This music only survives if people like you decide it is worth keeping. These independent artists need listeners who show up for them. This show needs you. Not as a customer, but as a partner. When you become a patron, you are not buying something. You are keeping something alive.

And you get something lovely in return. Every episode early, before anyone else. Ad-free versions of them all. It starts at just one dollar a month. Give a little more, five or ten, and there are album downloads and behind-the-scenes extras waiting. Prefer to give once? A single gift works beautifully too. You’ll find a link on how to give in the shownotes.

Two thousand dollars. One season. Help me get there. Go to patreon.com/celticchristmas . And everything lives at celticchristmaspodcast.com

To everyone already on board, thank you from the bottom of my heart. You are the reason this music plays.

Nollaig Shona Daoibh!

#celticchristmas #celticchristmasmusic

Celtic Music Magazine: Unquiet Spirits Arise

Todd Wiley — Thu, 22 Oct 2026 13:30:33 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

It is Todd once again. Sorry about this running a little late this week. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other featured podcasts are Copperplate Time & Folk on Foot. The articles are about a new podcast featuring the journey of those who fled during the Great Famine, an interview with Joe Locke, & an interview with Conleth McGeary. The festival spotlight this week is a little different. We are spotlighting the Delaware Renaissance Faire. Their opening weekend is October 30 – November 1, 2026. The Faire takes place at Firebase Lloyd in Townsend, DE. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #779: UNQUIET SPIRITS ARISE

Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson, Trí, Jesse Ferguson, Tulua, Mairi McGillivray, Irish Millie, Celtic Underground, Avourneen, Slugger's Rule, Maggie MacInnes, Some One's Sons, Mick Flannery, Anaïs Mitchell, Boiled In Lead, The Elders, Jim Moray

Thank you to every patron who gives each month. Members get a say in the best songs of the year, free copy of the Great St Patrick's Day Songbook, and a friendly place to talk Celtic music with people who love it as much as you do. All of it lives at SongHenge.com.

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

FOLK ON FOOT: SUNTOU SUSSO AT DARTINGTON HALL GARDENS

Suntou Susso, the griot and kora player from Gambia, now lives in Devon. On a glorious sunny day he takes Matthew for a walk through the beautiful gardens at Dartington Hall, explaining that this place often inspires him to compose new music. Suntou talks about the griot tradition handed down from generation to generation of his family, demonstrates how to play the West African harp – the kora – and sings his uplifting songs against the backdrop of flowers, trees, birds and insects. We also hear about the extraordinary history of Dartington Hall – set up as an experimental arts and crafts centre by one of the world’s richest women.

Listen here

IRISH BROTHERS LAUNCH PODCAST EXPLORING THE JOURNEYS OF GREAT FAMINE EMIGRANTS

TWO Irish brothers have joined forces to explore the experiences of those who fled Ireland during the Great Famine in a new five-part podcast.
Across the Briny Ocean follows the journey of Irish emigrants from their preparations to leave home through to their arrival in the New World and shows the challenges they faced along the way.
The series is based on The Coffin Ship, a book published in 2021 by Cian McMahon, a historian at the University of Nevada, whose research focuses on Irish and American immigration history.

To read more, go here!

COPPERPLATE TIME: 552

BOTHY BAND, LONDON LASSES, CAUS, CARLOS, SWEENEY & McCARTIN, JOHN FAULKNER, BUMBLEBEES, GARY CURLEY & STEPHEN McKEE, LIZ CARROLL, TEADA & RTE ORCH, FERGAL SCAHILL & RYAN MOLLOY, MICK MULVEY, CAROLINE KEANE, JOHN FAULKNER & DECLAN O’ROURKE, CATHARINE KINGCOME, TOMMIE POTTS, LAOISE KELLY, RALPH McTELL, BOB DAVENPORT &THE RAKES, BOB DAVENPORT, BOB DAVENPORT & FLOWERS & FROLICS, BOTHY BAND

Listen to the Show

‘I CAN JUST BE HELEN’S SON AGAIN’: JOE LOCKE ON WHY HE LOVES THE ISLE OF MAN

He may be an actor recognised the world over, but Joe Locke says one of the best things about returning to the Isle of Man is that nobody seems particularly bothered by his fame.
The former Ballakermeen High School pupil has spoken about his love for the island in a new interview with international magazine GQ, four years after his first appearance in the publication.

To read more, go here!

CONLETH MCGEARY ON LOVE, LOSS AND FINDING HIS VOICE

Tyrone singer-songwriter Conleth McGeary has opened up about the inspiration behind his new single Still Hers, a heartfelt tribute to his late aunt Kate, whom he describes as “a giant in my eyes”.
The musician wrote the song as a thank-you to his aunt, reflecting on the lasting connection we have with loved ones after they are gone.

To read more, go here!

DELAWARE RENAISSANCE FAIRE

Welcome fellow Wanderers and Seekers of Merriment!
This is the home of the Renaissance festival taking place in the great land of Delaware!
Magic, adventure, comedy, & fun for the whole family awaits you!
Be amazed by professional shows spread over our five stages throughout each day!
Explore our artisan marketplace with dozens of craft vendors.
Enjoy a meal from our delicious food vendors, or sit down for a hearty drink at our locally sourced pub!
Interact with one of the many strange characters of our village as you wander throughout the day, test your skill at archery, axe-throwing, or dagger toss,
or even battle a knight in one-on-one combat!
All this awaits you and more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

October 22, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #779: Unquiet Spirits Arise

Mitchell Petersen — Thu, 22 Oct 2026 11:00:31 +0000

This week's playlist travels from the pubs of Ireland to the hills of Appalachia and back across the water. Celtic Underground takes on Spancil Hill, Boiled In Lead sails away, Jim Moray gives the Lily of the West a fresh coat of paint, and Some One's Sons wake Finnegan all over again. Fifteen artists, one long road home. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #779. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson, Trí, Jesse Ferguson, Tulua, Mairi McGillivray, Irish Millie, Celtic Underground, Avourneen, Slugger's Rule, Maggie MacInnes, Some One's Sons, Mick Flannery, Anaïs Mitchell, Boiled In Lead, The Elders, Jim Moray

Marc Gunn, Trí, The Elders, Boiled In Lead, Jim Moray, Mick Flannery, Maggie MacInnes, Tulua, Mairi McGillivray, Irish Millie

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

0:02 – Intro: Tiffany Kerruish of Fynoderee Distillery

0:53 – Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson – “Miss Langford's / Big Pat's / The Dairy Maid” from Once Through the Hall

4:28 – WELCOME

6:17 – Trí – “The Connaught Man's Rambles / The Races of Castlebar / The Bohola Jig” (Mayo set) from The Cuckoo Sings in May

(pronunciation: Trí = TREE, Bohola = buh – HOH – luh)

9:49 – Jesse Ferguson – “The Unquiet Grave” from Carried Forward

14:24 – Tulua – “Sandy Horizon / The Big Reel of Ballynacally / The Wild Irishman” (reels) from In The Snug

(pronunciation: Ballynacally = bal – ee – nuh – KAL – ee)

17:02 – Mairi McGillivray – “Starlings” from Mo Thìr

(pronunciation: Mo Thìr = moh HEER)

21:21 – FEEDBACK

23:18 – Irish Millie – “Am I Enough” from Can You See Me?

27:36 – Celtic Underground – “Spancil Hill” from You Can Always Go Home

31:44 – Avourneen – “Austin Station” from Way Stations

(pronunciation: Avourneen = ah – VOOR – neen)

35:46 – Slugger's Rule – “He Loves Her Still ft. Far Away Waltz” from Clusterfolk

38:58 – Maggie MacInnes – “Cumha Hiortach” from Uiseagan Bharraigh

(pronunciation: Cumha Hiortach = KOO – uh HEERSH – tukh, Uiseagan Bharraigh = OOSH – uh – gan VAR – ee)

44:46 – THANKS

46:33 – Some One's Sons – “Finnegan's Wake” from The Boom is Back

49:35 – Mick Flannery feat. Anaïs Mitchell – “Rising Tide” from The House Must Win

(pronunciation: Anaïs = ah – nah – EES)

53:38 – Boiled In Lead – “(I'll Sing You) Sail Away, Ladies” from King of the Dogwoods

58:18 – The Elders – “The Celtic Warrior” from The Spirits and The Sea

1:02:47 – CLOSING

1:03:44 – Jim Moray – “Flora (The Lily of the West)” from Gallants

1:07:32 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen of Cyanwoode with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Here's some good news about your electricity. A July 2026 report from the International Renewable Energy Agency found that more than 90 percent of the new utility – scale renewable projects built in 2025 produced power more cheaply than the cheapest new fossil fuel option. Battery storage costs fell about 30 percent in the same year.

That's real opportunity, and a lot of it gets decided close to home. Many utilities and state regulators publish long – term energy plans and invite public comment before they're approved. City councils weigh in on solar on public buildings and community solar programs too.

This week, search your utility's website for its next long – term energy plan. Then send one short comment, or attend one meeting. A few friendly voices from neighbors who want affordable, clean power can go a long way.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories. Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

Because we are more than just a radio show. We are a community. A community of Celtic music and culture lovers. We support small and local artists. We spend money on things that truly matter. The personal and heart felt.

You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

CELTIC PODFEST AND NERDY ARTS MARKET

The 2nd Annual Celtic PodFest and Nerdy Arts Market happens Sunday, February 28, 2027, at The Lost Druid Brewery in Avondale Estates, Georgia, from 11:30 in the morning until 5:30 in the evening. We've got a wonderful lineup: Olivia Bradley, The BorderCollies, May Will Bloom, and a solo set from yours truly, The Celtfather. Plus a Nerdy Arts Market full of independent makers.

To learn more and mark your calendar, head to celticmusic.org

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

Every week, your support pays the graphic designer, the audio engineer, and the server bills that keep this podcast online. It also helps me promote the show, and it buys music from the artists I feature. That's a lot of good work happening because of you.

Thank you to every patron who gives each month. Members get a say in the best songs of the year, free copy of the Great St Patrick's Day Songbook, and a friendly place to talk Celtic music with people who love it as much as you do. All of it lives at SongHenge.com.

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

In 2027, we're hiking the Isle of Skye. Head on over to http://celticinvasion.com/.

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Jan Turner emailed last December: “Thank you and Merry Christmas to you and the entire Marc Gunn “family” as well. Thanks for the music! May the coming year bring all of you good health, happiness and love.”

Tracy Lucky emailed a photo and wrote: “I almost forgot. ! I love the way you pronounce my name coming from French Quebec not many people say my name correctly and you always pull the a in O'Shea just a little and it makes it sound so musical!

Picture of Shar for tax.”

Celtic Music Magazine: Ravens with a Celtic Heart

Todd Wiley — Thu, 15 Oct 2026 13:00:28 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

It is Todd once again. Fiddles take the lead this week. Blazin' Fiddles light up the set with Incendo, Adagio Trio bring a quiet Skye Boat Song, and Shooglenifty and Kalos keep the feet moving. John Doyle adds songs of the Irish in the American Revolution. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #778. The other podcasts featured are In Tune With Tradition & Kitchen Party Ceilidh. The articles this week are about a mental health music and arts festival, a new ‘tropical’ café in Edinburgh, and an interview with Duke Special. As usual there is a list of new albums from the past week. The festival spotlight shines bright on the 40th Annual Tucson Celtic Festival & Scottish Highland Games. This event takes place October 23 – 25, 2026 at the Rillito Park Race Track in Tucson, AZ. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #778: RAVENS WITH A CELTIC HEART

Téada, RTÉ Concert Orchestra, House of Hamill, Louise Bichan, Blazin' Fiddles, Clay Babies, Aaron Dolan, McFloosey, Adagio Trio, John Doyle, Gerry Maguire, The Muckers, Gaelic Mishap, Shooglenifty, Kalos

Thanks to our newest Patron of the Podcast: Ruairi Hipkin

Listen to the Show

Episode Photo

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

ÉCHO DES ORIGINES – by Duo Trad Bazinet/Laflamme
At the Ceilidh, Here – by Shepherd's Pipes
Silence on Ivory – by Anu
WANDERING ONE – by Jax The Bard
Whispers of Erin – by Leonardis
Lost Stories of Old – by Adrian von Ziegler
Celtic Acoustic: Sunset Under the Festival Flags – by YUNOKIA
Auf Zu Neuen Ufern – by Balanza
Romantic White – by Modea

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

IN TUNE WITH TRADITION – PERSPECTIVES ON SESSION ETIQUETTE IN IRISH TRADITIONAL MUSIC: NERVES IN IRISH MUSIC SESSIONS

This episode Éamon Ó Ciosáin talks with Tara about nerves, listening and the things musicians gradually learn by actually spending time in Irish music sessions.
Éamon speaks openly about going blank when asked to start a tune, playing slightly above your comfort level and why nerves do not necessarily disappear with experience.

Listen here

IRISH COMMUNITY COMES TOGETHER FOR MENTAL HEALTH MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL IN LONDON

THE Mental Health Music and Arts Festival took place at Kiln Theatre in Kilburn on Tuesday, October 13, where Irish performers and community groups celebrated the arts.
The event had singers, musicians, poets and artists celebrating the role of the arts in supporting mental health and bringing people together, and was organised by the Irish charity Ashford Place…

To read more, go here!

KITCHEN PARTY CEILIDH

Kevin, Tim & Brent Chaisson, Farsan, Pine Tree Flyers, Barra MacNeils, Tony McManus, J.P. Cormier, Dave Gunning, Pine Tree Flyers, Party Crew

Listen to the Show

THE ‘TROPICAL' AND INTREPID COUPLE-OWNED CAFE THAT'S OPENED IN COOL EDINBURGH LOCALE

Feeling a bit grey and dour?
Then it might be worth hunting down a slice of sunshine in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge. This is in the form of new Brazilian cafe, Oca, which is at 28 North West Circus Place and is owned by young couple Marc Leplae and Lene Oliveira. We asked them to share more…

To read more, go here!

TEN MINUTES WITH DUKE SPECIAL AHEAD OF HIS SLIGO LIVE APPEARANCE

DUKE SPECIAL will celebrate the 20th anniversary of his album Songs from the Deep Forest with a concert at Hawk’s Well Theatre on Thursday, October 29, as part of Sligo Live. The Belfast musician will perform the album in its entirety, alongside favourites from his back catalogue. Celebrating its own 21st anniversary, Sligo Live runs from October 17 until November 1, 2026.
Otherwise known as Peter Wilson, Duke brings a distinctive blend of theatrical flair, literary influences and unconventional instrumentation to his music. His career has ranged far beyond recording and touring, taking him into theatre, television and collaborations with major arts institutions…

To read more, go here!

TUCSON CELTIC FESTIVAL & SCOTTISH HIGHLAND GAMES

From ancient Highland feats to soulful Celtic melodies, experience the magic of Scotland and Ireland in the Arizona desert. The Tucson Celtic Festival & Scottish Highland Games: where tradition comes alive.
Some of the entertainers performing are Swagger, Killian’s Angels, Noble McCoy Band, The Brothers Bard, and more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

October 15, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #778: Ravens with a Celtic Heart

Mitchell Petersen — Thu, 15 Oct 2026 11:00:17 +0000

Fiddles take the lead this week. Blazin' Fiddles light up the set with Incendo, Adagio Trio bring a quiet Skye Boat Song, and Shooglenifty and Kalos keep the feet moving. John Doyle adds songs of the Irish in the American Revolution.It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #778. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Téada, RTÉ Concert Orchestra, House of Hamill, Louise Bichan, Blazin' Fiddles, Clay Babies, Aaron Dolan, McFloosey, Adagio Trio, John Doyle, Gerry Maguire, The Muckers, Gaelic Mishap, Shooglenifty, Kalos

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

0:06 – Téada with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra conducted by Karen Ní Bhroin – “The Tenpenny Piece | Comb Your Hair and Curl It | Larry McDonagh's” (slip jig, hop jigs) from Orchestrating 25

Pronunciation: Téada is CHAY – duh. Karen Ní Bhroin is KAIR – en nee VRIN.

4:05 – WELCOME

7:11 – House of Hamill – “Smokejumper” from Wildfire

12:28 – Louise Bichan – “Three Ravens” from Binnorie

Pronunciation: Binnorie is bin – OR – ee.

16:17 – Blazin' Fiddles – “Ricky & June” from Incendo

20:18 – Clay Babies – “Marley's Bedding” from In Other Words

23:47 – FEEDBACK

26:03 – Aaron Dolan – “The Boys of Bluehill” from Farewell to Tir Na nÓg

Pronunciation: Tir Na nÓg is TEER nuh NOHG.

27:42 – McFloosey – “The Knickers of Corduroy” from Balscadden Bay

Pronunciation: Balscadden is bal – SKAD – en.

30:14 – Adagio Trio – “Skye Boat Song” from Celtic Heart

33:21 – John Doyle – “Man Is Free By Nature” from Free by Nature: Songs of the Irish in the American Revolution

37:30 – THANKS

39:09 – Gerry Maguire – “Courtin' in the Cooley Hills” from Where Do You Belong

Pronunciation: Cooley is COO – lee.

42:21 – The Muckers – “Old Dun Cow” from The Muckers

46:05 – Gaelic Mishap – “The Impossible Destinal Festival” from From the Edge

49:44 – Shooglenifty – “Up The McFud” from Stamina Island

Pronunciation: Shooglenifty is SHOO – gul – NIF – tee.

55:59 – CLOSING

57:05 – Kalos – “Pretty Good Friday/Ladybug” from Tamarack

1:01:18 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Want to cut your energy bill and help the climate at the same time? Start with the place you know best: your own home.

Most homes lose a surprising amount of energy through small gaps. Around the windows. Under the doors. Up in the attic. Sealing those gaps is one of the simplest and most affordable upgrades there is, and it often pays for itself in lower bills.

Here's your call to action. This week, call or visit the website of your local utility and ask about a home energy check. Many utilities offer free or low – cost ones, and some have rebates for insulation and weatherproofing. It takes about ten minutes to ask.

A cozier home, a smaller bill, and a little less carbon in the air. That's a good trade.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

CELTIC PODFEST AND NERDY ARTS MARKET

I want to take a moment to say thank you.

Because of you, the 2027 Celtic PodFest is funded. We hit our goal, and we even raised a little beyond it, enough to help cover some of the extra costs that come with making all the merch, the live album, the zine, and everything we're bringing to this festival. That means we are moving full steam ahead.

To everyone who pledged, who shared, who cheered us on… thank you from the bottom of my heart. You turned a hopeful idea into a real day of Celtic music. This festival is yours as much as it is mine.

So let me tell you what you helped build. The 2nd Annual Celtic PodFest and Nerdy Arts Market happens Sunday, February 28, 2027, at The Lost Druid Brewery in Avondale Estates, Georgia, from 11:30 in the morning until 5:30 in the evening. We've got a wonderful lineup: Olivia Bradley, The BorderCollies, May Will Bloom, and a solo set from yours truly, The Celtfather. Plus a Nerdy Arts Market full of independent makers.

And here's something for everyone listening, no matter where in the world you are. We'll be recording the festival, and there will be a podcast episode right here highlighting the music from the day. So even if you can't make it to Georgia, you'll still get to hear the magic.

Whether you backed the Kickstarter or you're just hearing about this now, you are invited. Come spend the day with us. There'll be great music, great art, cold pints, and the best community in Celtic music.

To learn more and mark your calendar, head to celticmusic.org.

Thank you again. I can't wait to celebrate with you on February 28. Slainte!

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

Every episode of this podcast exists because of you. Your support pays for the graphic designer, it pays for the audio engineer, and it lets me buy music from the artists I feature, so they see something back for the songs you hear. Thank you to every patron who chips in each month. You keep this show independent and weekly.

Patrons also get a seat in a community of fellow Celtic music fans who share discoveries every day. That community lives at SongHenge.com. Come and meet us.

Thanks to our newest Patron of the Podcast: Ruairi Hipkin

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

In 2027, we're hiking the Isle of Skye. Two slots just opened up. If you’d like to join us, head on over to http://celticinvasion.com/. It is first come, first served.

And I can tell you we will be staying in Portree on the Isle of Skye and we’ll be hiking the Fairy Pools. Come join us!

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Trudy B Brown of Denver, CO: “I can't quite figure out how to listen to the music, without the magazine (I don't have time for that. I barely remember to listen to the show which I previously did via my laptop, which is where I am most of the time. And, I barely remember to listen even once a month. I don't understand or know how to get podcasts and not really interested in them.)

Is this the only way I can hear your show anymore?”

Anna Gatz emailed: “Hello! My name is Anna! I discovered the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast when I was bored of normal workout music and wanted something different to workout to! I love listening while I crochet or sew in the evenings! Thank you so much for what you do bringing more awareness to the world of Celtic music!

I also want to recommend the band Music the Gathering!”

Celtic Music Magazine: House of Hamill Interview

Todd Wiley — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 13:00:43 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

Hello Celtic community. In this week’s issue we have a new episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast and a Patron exclusive interview with House of Hamill. The other podcasts we feature are Travelling in Ireland & Folk on Foot. We have included a list of new albums released over the past week. The articles this week are about a new Oral history film, a Cornwall seaside town being named UK’s best, & an Isle of Man Charity marking its anniversary with 12 hours of live music. The spotlight this week shines on a music festival, The Celtic Colours International Festival, taking place October 9 – 17, 2026 across Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Canada. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #777: HOUSE OF HAMILL INTERVIEW

Aaron Dolan, Blazin' Fiddles, Trish Wesevich, Pomplas, McFloosey, House of Hamill, Enter the Haggis, Shooglenifty, Billow Wood, Lo & the High Road, Gaelic Mishap, Rebecca Hill and Charlie Stewart

Raise a glass to our Celtic Legends who pledge $30 or more month: Fuzzy, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Dan mcDade, Jeff Adelsberger, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Round Rock Image Creators, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST PATRON BONUS: FULL INTERVIEW: HOUSE OF HAMILL

House of Hamill joins me for an interview on this week's Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. But as a patron, you get the full interview and you get to hear some of the bands and places that inspire the band.
House of Hamill owes its existence – almost entirely – to a series of cancelled flights.
Rose Baldino and Brian Buchanan first found themselves onstage together at the 2014 Folk Alliance International conference in Kansas City…

Patrons Listen Here!

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

Celtic Acoustic: Strings Under the Spring Blossoms – by YUNOKIA
Where Clear Water Flows (2CD) – by Seamus Sands
À MARÉE HAUTE – by Baragwin
Whisky Galore (live from Edinbrugh) – by Kenn Gordon & Raven
Ballads – by Sammy Horner / The Sweet Sorrows / The Electrics
The Mystic Muses: Live from New Zealand 2026 – by Celia Farran
Beneath the Hollow Hills – by Sabrina Woods
Clarity – by Modea
PEOPLE TREE (Instrumental) – by Modea
Standing Stones – by Lo & the High Road
Siren Songs – by SMTX Bagpiper
Chez Nous – by Malvenn
Medieval Fantasy Castle Songs for Folk Guitar & Lute, Celtic Violin and Magic Flute – by Andrei Krylov
Music for Quadrilles – by Keith Smith and Green Ginger
Copperhead Colors – by Alex Sturbaum
Dublinesque – by Dublinesque

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

TRAVELING IN IRELAND: HOW MUCH OF IRELAND CAN YOU EXPLORE FROM DUBLIN?

Dublin is one of the most popular bases for an Ireland vacation. But if you’re staying in Dublin, how far should you travel for a day trip without spending most of your day getting there and back?
I like to use a 90-minute radius. Three hours of round-trip travel still leaves plenty of time for exploring. And if you create a loop with a few stops along the way, you can easily build a five-, six-, or seven-hour day without feeling like most of your Ireland vacation was spent in the car.
And a 90-minute radius from Dublin covers far more than you might expect.

Listen here!

‘WE KNEW THERE WAS AN URGENCY’: THE IRISH STORIES SAVED BEFORE IT WAS TOO LATE

AN ORAL history film has preserved the memories of 17 Irish people who left Ireland for Derby in the 1950s and 1960s.
Their stories were captured in Our Story: A History of the Irish in Derby, an oral history short film project created by University of Derby Associate Professor of Media and Culture Daithí McMahon in collaboration with the Derby Irish Association.
The film includes the experiences of 17 first-generation Irish emigrants, covering their childhoods in Ireland, why they emigrated, their journeys to Britain and the lives they built after arriving…

To read more, go here!

FOLK ON FOOT: OFFICIAL FOLK ALBUMS CHART SHOW—6TH OCTOBER 2026

This month’s show features music from Spell Songs, The Mary Wallopers, Elanor Moss, Rusty Shackle, Gilroy Mere, Colin Stetson and Brighde Chaimbeul, Andy Irvine and Blind Yeo. Lucy Shields previews forthcoming album releases and live music and Matthew Bannister reveals the next episode of Folk on Foot.

Listen to the Show

A CORNISH SEASIDE TOWN HAS JUST BEEN CROWNED THE UK'S BEST – NOT MOUSEHOLE OR NEWQUAY

Cornwall is officially home to the best seaside town in the country. A new ranking has placed St Ives in the top spot, with the iconic coastal spot beating Mousehole, Newquay, Falmouth and every other seaside idyll to the number one rank.
But with popularity can come problems. A summer trip to Cornwall can feel like a battle against the crowds. With thousands of tourists packed into its narrow streets, getting around St Ives at the height of the season can feel like standing in one endless queue, though admittedly one where you can pick up a Cornish pasty roughly every five feet…

To read more, go here!

ISLE OF MAN CHARITY MARKS 10TH ANNIVERSARY WITH 12 HOURS OF LIVE MUSIC

A Manx charity supporting people with autoimmune conditions is marking its 10th anniversary with 12 hours of live music this weekend.
Without Wings – The Manx Autoimmune Trust will host its anniversary band-a-thon at Quids Inn this Saturday, October 10, from 1pm until 1am

To read more, go here!

CELTIC COLOURS INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL

The Celtic Colours International Festival is a unique celebration of Cape Breton Island's living traditional culture. For nine days each October you'll discover hundreds of events and activities taking place in communities all over the Island.
Some of the entertainers you can see are Abigail MacDonald, Adam Young, Allan Dewar, Beòlach, Bethany June, Bette MacDonald & Maynard Morrison, Beverly MacLean, Brian Doyle, Bumblebees, Cailean MacLean, Còig, Crowdis Bridge, Good Crowd, Joanne MacIntyre & Sons, Liz Carroll & Jake Charron, Marrow Bones, Scottish Fish, The Pellerin Brothers, & many, many more.

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

October 8, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #777: House of Hamill Interview

Mitchell Petersen — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 11:00:46 +0000

Wildfire, whales, and a farewell that turned out not to be final. This week's episode centers on House of Hamill and Enter the Haggis, whose members are reuniting on stage at the Sherwood Celtic Yuletide Festival this December. Fiddles from Scotland's Blazin' Fiddles and Shooglenifty bookend the set, with fresh sounds from Billow Wood, Gaelic Mishap, and Lo & the High Road along the way. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #777. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Aaron Dolan, Blazin' Fiddles, Trish Wesevich, Pomplas, McFloosey, House of Hamill, Enter the Haggis, Shooglenifty, Billow Wood, Lo & the High Road, Gaelic Mishap, Rebecca Hill and Charlie Stewart

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

0:02 – Intro: House of Hamill

0:16 – Aaron Dolan — “Scotland The Brave” from Farewell to Tir Na nÓg

1:34 – WELCOME

4:02 – Blazin' Fiddles — “Father Angus” from Incendo

9:05 – Trish Wesevich — “The Mist of Avalon”

13:43 – Pomplas — “Farewell to the Corncrake”

17:39 – McFloosey — “Kiss Kill or Marry me” from Balscadden Bay

22:44 – FEEDBACK

25:15 – INTERVIEW WITH HOUSE OF HAMILL

25:41 – HOUSE OF HAMILL: ABOUT THE BAND

33:08 – House of Hamill — “Banks of the Brandywine” from Wildfire

36:21 – HOUSE OF HAMILL: ABOUT THE ALBUM

43:11 – House of Hamill — “Silver Dagger” from Wildfire

45:22 – HOUSE OF HAMILL: RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS

52:02 – Enter the Haggis — “Swallowed By a Whale” from Swallowed By a Whale – Single

56:26 – INTERVIEW OUTRO

56:48 – THANKS

59:47 – Shooglenifty — “My Old Pal Aonghas”

Pronunciation: “Aonghas” is the Scottish Gaelic form of Angus, roughly “UN – uss.”

1:06:02 – Billow Wood — “Out at Sea”

1:08:35 – Lo & the High Road — “Lanterns in the Mist”

1:12:01 – Gaelic Mishap — “Larks in the Morning” from From the Edge

1:15:04 – CLOSING

1:15:33 – Rebecca Hill and Charlie Stewart — “Kait's (Single)”

1:19:13 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Clean energy keeps getting cheaper, and that shift is showing up close to home, not just in headlines. Solar and wind installations are creating local jobs, and towns that invest early tend to see lower long – term energy costs for residents. The best part is you don't need to wait on Washington. Local decisions, town halls, utility co – ops, all of it adds up. If you want a way to help without changing your whole life, show up to one local meeting this year and ask what your community's energy plan looks like.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

CELTIC PODFEST AND NERDY ARTS MARKET

A huge thanks to everyone who made a pledge to make the Celtic PodFest happen. I’m happy to say we hit our goal. Most of the rewards won’t be available until the festival launches on Sunday, February 28, 2027 at The Lost Druid Brewery in Avondale Estates, Ga.

If you’re interested in some limited – edition swag, including CDs, album pins, and shirts, then make sure you visit the Kickstarter. You can still make some late pledges to the festival to make it a smashing success.

Head on over to our Kickstarter for the Celtic PodFest. You’ll find a link in the shownotes.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

Every episode like this one takes extra time… going back and forth booking the interview, editing the audio which is longer than usual, getting the show notes formatted and out the door. Patrons cover the graphic designer, the audio engineer, and a fair bit of my own time keeping this show going. Thank you for that.

This week especially, I want to thank the Patrons who make it possible to sit down with artists like House of Hamill and actually have room to ask fun questions about the music.

Patron perks include early access to episodes, and yes, an extended interview just for patrons. Head over to Patreon to see what’s waiting there.

Raise a glass to our Celtic Legends who pledge $30 or more month: Fuzzy, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Dan mcDade, Jeff Adelsberger, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Round Rock Image Creators, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

In 2027, we're hiking the Isle of Skye. Two slots just opened up. If you’d like to join us, head on over to http://celticinvasion.com/. It is first come, first served.

And I can tell you we will be staying in Portree on the Isle of Skye and we’ll be hiking the Fairy Pools. Come join us!

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Jim Treslobos emailed: “Dear Marc Gunn

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast first landed in my feed when I was still carrying an iPod. I’d listen to the current episode and catch up the previous installments on the drive to and from work. Learning about various Celtic bands from all over the planet expanded my world view and allowed me to support those independent artists.

I applaud your response to last week’s challenging criticism and offer my financial support (finally) for the podcast.

You will not be getting a photo showing what I’m doing while listening to the podcast because it’s my companion during house work.

As they say on Firefly, “See you in the verse”.

Jim

PS The Wicked Tinker’s “Aiken Drum” (Big Bottle of Bad Ideas) is not a contemporary rebel song, but may help illustrate your point.`”

Tom Cochran emailed: “Thanks for getting back to me so quickly.

I am actually still giving $1 a month on an old account listed and at the $5 level with my current email.

I had been listening on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast app. When that stopped working I started using the Patreon app. Which has worked well for several months until episode 745. The last three episodes have shown up as 5min. samples.”

Celtic Music Magazine: Highlight Reel #5.4: 758 – 764

Todd Wiley — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 13:00:34 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

Todd here again. Don’t forget to back the Kickstarter for the Celtic Podfest. This is your last chance. This week we have new episodes of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast & Celtic Christmas Music Podcast. The other podcasts we feature are The Scottish History Podcast as well as Gerry Quinn’s Irish Radio Show. The articles included are about Dolores Keane being inducted into the RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards Hall of Fame, a new exhibition about Mary Queen of Scots, an interview with Sheila Buglar, and the mark Vikings left on Ireland. We have a list of new albums. The festival spotlight shines bright on CelticFest Mississippi taking place October 10th and 11th, with a kickoff on the 9th. The festival takes place at Bobby Cleveland Park at Lakeshore Brandon, MS. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

Back the 2027 Celtic PodFest! (Closes Friday, Oct 2)

Live concert recordings, only for supporters
A full Celtic PodFest podcast episode for everyone
Interviews with the bands
A rare chance at our podcast pint glasses
The whole festival mailed to your doorstep
Featuring Olivia Bradley, The BorderCollies, May Will Bloom, and The Celtfather
Pledge now: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/marcgunn/2027-celtic-podfest

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST: HIGHLIGHT REEL #5.4: 758-764

Here’s the Highlight Reel of 2026. You have three weeks to vote for your favorites tracks from shows #758 – 764
You can vote for as many tracks as you like. And the more you vote, the more your vote counts.

Thank you to all of our amazing patrons!!

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC PODCAST #92: INSTRUMENTAL CHRISTMAS MUSIC FOR CELTS

What if Christmas had no lyrics? Just fiddles, whistles, pipes, and dulcimers dancing through your speakers? That's episode 92. And it is spectacular.
It’s Celtic Christmas Music #92
The Fire, The Rogues, The Jig is Up!, Cedar Dobson, The Lilies of the Midwest, Ashley MacIsaac, Maggie Sansone, Irish Christmas in America, Gaelynn Lea

Listen Here

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

Harfenrundfahrt – by Irregang
Between the Worlds III – by David De Michele
Returning Home – by Kenn Gordon & Raven
Knight of Flowers – by Ebunny
Celtic Acoustic: Picnic Beyond the Festival Walls – by YUNOKIA
Ladies Loe – by Ladies Loe
Land of My Youth – by Donald Lindsay
Caoin Abhainn – by Mara Caol
Sean Chnoic – by Bracken Veil
Woman Of The Earth – by Spiral Dance

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

THE SCOTTISH HISTORY PODCAST: 140 – TWISH – THE BATTLE OF THE CLANS

This Week In Scottish History sees the anniversary of “The Battle of The Clans”.
A battle between 60 men – 30 on each side – sanctioned by the King, Robert III and fought in Perth.
Very interesting story so it's just one long story for TWISH this time.

Listen here

DOLORES KEANE SET TO BE INDUCTED INTO MUSIC HALL OF FAME

DOLORES KEANE is to be posthumously honoured for her contribution to Irish folk and traditional music.
The Galway native, who died in March, will be inducted into the RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards Hall of Fame this autumn.
“Dolores Keane was one of the defining voices of Irish folk and traditional music, celebrated for her rich, expressive singing and her lifelong commitment to preserving Ireland’s musical heritage,” an RTÉ spokesperson explained as they confirmed the honour this month.

To read more, go here!

GERRY QUINN'S IRISH RADIO SHOW SEPTEMBER 27 2026

Tom Curran and Bill Johnson in studio.

Listen to the Show

MARY QUEEN OF SCOTS EXHIBITION TO OPEN IN EDINBURGH

A new exhibition presenting Mary Queen of Scots as a Renaissance queen and giving a flavour of what it was like to be in her “vibrant” court is to open in Edinburgh next year.
Curators said that while many think of Mary dressed in black and see her through the lens of her death, the exhibition aims to challenge perceptions and show a contrasting side, when she was a sophisticated figure moving between palaces…

To read more, go here!

LISTEN: IRISH CRIME WRITER TAKES AIM AT THE WICKED STEPMOTHER MYTH IN GRIPPING NEW THRILLER

Eleven novels into her career, Irish crime writer Sheila Bugler still sits down at her desk with no idea what the next chapter holds, or even the next word. Speaking on the Irish books podcast Natter with Kate and Michelle, the Ballinasloe native discussed her latest psychological thriller “The Stepmother”, which turns one of fiction's most enduring and misogynistic tropes on its head.
Crime writer Sheila Bugler has published eleven novels, but she still sits down to write without knowing what is going to happen next…

To read more, go here!

IRISH DNA MAP REVEALS VIKINGS LEFT A FAR DEEPER MARK ON IRELAND THAN THOUGHT

The Vikings raided Ireland for two centuries before Brian Boru broke their power at the Battle of Clontarf in 1014, and it turns out they left behind far more than ruins and artifacts. A detailed “DNA map” assembled by genealogist Gianpiero Cavalleri of the Royal College of Surgeons shows the Norse intermingled with local women on a scale historians never suspected, with the closest genetic matches found along the north and west coasts of Norway.
A “DNA map” of Ireland reveals that the Viking raiders intermingled with local women far more than was previously thought. Genealogist Gianpiero Cavalleri of the Royal College of Surgeons pieced together a detailed map after studying the DNA of over 500 Irishmen and women…

To read more, go here!

CELTICFEST MISSISSIPPI

A Traditional Irish & Scottish Music, Dance, Athletics & Cultural Festival held in Central MS on the Barnett Reservoir the 2nd Weekend in October.
Entertainers performing are Albannach, The Harbor Trio, Jenny & the Weazels, Flutilla, Mind The Dresser, The Old Ways, RAW Primal Performance Troupe, and many more!!!!!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

October 1, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast: Highlight Reel #5.4: 758-764

Mitchell Petersen — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 11:00:09 +0000

HIGHLIGHT REEL 5.4 OF 2026

Greetings Celtophiles

Here’s the Highlight Reel of 2026. You have three weeks to vote for your favorites tracks from shows #758 – 764

You can vote for as many tracks as you like. And the more you vote, the more your vote counts.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Vote Now for as many songs and tunes that you love. We will filter it down to the best at the end of the year.
You can cast your vote for as many tracks as you love in this week's episode.
You have just THREE weeks to vote for your favorite songs and tunes.
All regular polls close on Friday, December 4, 2026 at 9 AM Eastern.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

758

1:29 – Tartanic “Slapping Paddies” from Uncivilized

4:24 – Charlene Adzima “Jimmie McGetrick's/John Naughton's/Tom Ward's Downfall” from The Initiation

7:35 – Banshee in the Kitchen “King of Laoise” from Band O' Shees

759

11:25 – Hanneke Cassel “Strathspey O' Death #1 / Strathspey O'Death #2 / Colonel Thornton / Running Around the Tree” from Some Melodious Sonnet

15:39 – Low Lily “Brothers in Arms” from 10,000 Days Like These

20:20 – Sean Heely and Beth Patterson “Allan Tyne of Harrow” from Stir the Blood to Fire

760

25:32 – Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh “Do Bhí Bean Uasal” from Neadú

32:14 – Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira “Arising” from All It Brings

761

36:32 – Gerry O'Connor “Stereo Connor (Polkas)” from Last Night's Joy

40:48 – Fiallal “No Fear No Grace” from A Rare Thing

45:10 – Clanna Morna “Virginia / Martin Wynne's #2 / Morning Dew” from From The Lowlands To The High Seas

49:19 – Alexander James Adams “Blue Heron/Cranky Crawdads/Mittens on the Moon” from Cat & the Fiddle

54:06 – Jiggy “I'm With You” from Translate

763

57:45 – Runa “For All That You Do Set” from When The Light Gets In

1:03:18 – Matt and Shannon Heaton “P Joe Hayes #2/Cottage in the Grove/Mother and Child (reels)” from Whirring Wings

764

1:07:21 – Mary Beth Carty “Mary Anne”

1:11:08 – Trouz Bras “Life is for Living” from Edge of the Spiral: Celtic Music of Brittany

1:15:06 – Hildaland “The Watchman's Polka (feat. Ethan Setiawan & Louise Bichan)” from Fiddle Tunes (feat. Ethan Setiawan & Louise Bichan) – EP

1:18:29 – CREDITS

Highlight Reels was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. The show was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather. Promote Celtic culture through music with the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast: 776 Bonus Episode

Mitchell Petersen — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 09:09:41 +0000

We’re talking about the Kickstarter for the 2027 Celtic PodFest and sharing some music. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

CELTIC PODFEST AND NERDY ARTS MARKET

Head on over to our Kickstarter for the Celtic PodFest. You’ll find a link in the shownotes.

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

741

3:06 – Heather Dale “The Morrigan” from Fairytale

6:24 – The Gothard Sisters “See You Down the Road” from Moment in Time

10:19 – Brobdingnagian Bards “I'm Coming Home” from Another Faire to Remember

742

14:50 – Kinnfolk “The Water's Rising/Gwendal” from Star Above The Mountain

20:32 – Poitin “Bar Eye” from Simple Pleasures

24:13 – Aisling Drost Byrne, Brendan McCarthy & Conal O'Kane “The Girl That Broke my Heart / Máire na Sop / The Dear Tobacco” from JUMP OUT OF IT

27:21 – The Langer's Ball “The Wild Rover Polka” from Drinking Song Sing – A – Long (2025)

743

30:27 – Nerea The Fiddler “Kitchen Music” from Off The Beatn Path

33:41 – Mary Beth Carty “A’ Challuinn : ‘S e gillean mo rùin / Walking the Floor / Capers Jig / Miss Anderson’s Jig” from single

37:28 – Socks in the Frying Pan “Willy Annes Waltz” from Waiting for Inspiration

744

40:54 – Albannach “Auld Nick's A Piper” from Eye Of The Storm

43:31 – Tradify “Waterman’s, Waterman’s Jig & Superfly” from Take Flight

47:55 – Low Power Trio “Jug of Punch” from Dirty Old Town

745

50:48 – Aisling Drost Byrne, Brendan McCarthy & Conal O'Kane “The Millbrae Mazurka / Francie Dearg's / Finbar Dwyer's Reel”

54:13 – Poitin “Tired by Kids” from Simple Pleasures

58:14 – Shannon Heaton “Bow for Rama” from Perfect Maze

746

1:01:40 – Aisling Drost Byrne, Brendan McCarthy & Conal O'Kane “The Skylark's Ascension / Sonny Brogan's / The Connaughtman's Rambles”

1:05:39 – Lane to the Glen “The Gráinne Mhaol : Malloy’s Favourite (Barndance : Reel)” from Lane to the Glen

1:10:08 – Alex Sturbaum “Soundcheck Set” from River Run Wide

1:15:00 – Jen Midkiff (she/her) “This Moment (between Good and Pretti)” from single

1:19:06 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

This week especially, I want to thank the Patrons who make it possible to sit down with artists like House of Hamill and actually have room to ask fun questions about the music.

Patron perks include early access to episodes, and yes, an extended interview just for patrons. Head over to Patreon to see what’s waiting there.

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

In 2027, we're hiking the Isle of Skye. Two slots just opened up. If you’d like to join us, head on over to http://celticinvasion.com/. It is first come, first served.

And I can tell you we will be staying in Portree on the Isle of Skye and we’ll be hiking the Fairy Pools. Come join us!

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Celtic Christmas Music Podcast #92: Instrumental Christmas Music for Celts

Mitchell Petersen — Sun, 27 Sep 2026 13:14:22 +0000

What if Christmas had no lyrics? Just fiddles, whistles, pipes, and dulcimers dancing through your speakers? That's episode 92. And it is spectacular.

It’s Celtic Christmas Music #92

The Fire, The Rogues, The Jig is Up!, Cedar Dobson, The Lilies of the Midwest, Ashley MacIsaac, Maggie Sansone, Irish Christmas in America, Gaelynn Lea

0:07 – The Fire “The Jingle Bells Suite” from The Fire's Very Scottish Christmas

4:12 – WELCOME TO CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC

I am Marc Gunn. I am Celtic musician and podcaster. We are promoting Celtic culture through Christmas cheer. We want to bring a little magic and joy into your holiday season.

If you hear music you love, please support the artists. You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes as well as how to support this podcast at CelticChristmasPodcast.com

Here's a fun bit of Celtic Christmas history for you. In Ireland and Scotland, the Christmas season has always been as much about music as it is about food and family. Long before recorded sound, communities gathered in homes for what the Irish called a ceili and the Scots called a ceilidh. These weren't formal concerts. They were impromptu house parties. A fiddle came out. A whistle joined in. A bodhrán kept time. People danced, told stories, and played tune after tune deep into the night. The music was instrumental, informal, and joyful.

In Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, that tradition carried on through the Scottish diaspora. Christmas gatherings there still often feature fiddle players trading tunes by the fireplace. Episode 92 is a love letter to that tradition. No lyrics required. Just the music doing what it's always done. Bringing people together.

5:34 – The Rogues “Hellbound Sleigh” from Hellbound Sleigh

10:08 – The Jig is Up! “The Four Kings” from A Penny for the Wren

14:27 – Cedar Dobson “We Wish You a Merry Christmas / Trepak (The Nutcracker) / Jingle Bells / Auld Lang Syne” from A Whistle Wonderland: Christmas Melodies in a Celtic Style

18:46 – THANK YOU FOR SPREADING CHRISTMAS CHEER!

There's something truly special about music that needs no words. Celtic Christmas Music episode 92 is proof of that. Every fiddle run, every pipe melody, every whistle phrase says something words can't. Thank you for listening. You make this show worth making.

And a massive thank you to the Patrons who keep Celtic Christmas Music alive year after year. You are the reason this podcast exists. If you want to support the show and help us bring even more incredible Celtic music to the world. Here's your three-step plan:

Go to patreon.com/celticchristmas
Choose your pledge: $12, $8, $25, or $100 a month, for as long as you'd like to support the show
Keep listening to Celtic Christmas Music and know that you are the reason this magic exists

20:03 – The Lilies of the Midwest “Siobhan's Snowy Wedding” from Cats' Ceili

23:53 – Ashley MacIsaac “Fiddle Medley: March of the Cameron Men / The Glencoe March / Laddie With the Paddle Strathspey / Jenny Dang the Weaver Reel / Irish Reel” from A Cape Breton Christmas

33:16 – Maggie Sansone “Here We Come A-Wassailing / Bottom of the Punch Bowl” from A Scottish Christmas

36:48 – Irish Christmas in America “Mazurkas – Christmas in Spiddal, Twelve to a Bar” from A Long Way From Home

39:44 – CLOSING

40:24 – Gaelynn Lea “Wexford Carol / O Christmas Tree” from Deepest Darkness, Brightest Dawn

42:49 – CREDITS

Celtic Christmas Music was produced by Marc Gunn and our Christmas Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to subscribe to the podcast. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Here's something to think about this holiday season. Every time you buy a locally made product, support a small business, or choose a clean energy provider, you are casting a vote. Not at a ballot box. With your wallet. Big corporations spend billions buying political influence because they know consumer power works. Prove them right. Choose solar. Choose local. Choose companies that put people and the planet before profit. Your spending decisions shape the world more than you think. This Christmas, be intentional about where your money goes. Make it count. Find clean energy options in your area and switch today.

Promote Celtic culture through Christmas music at CelticChristmasPodcast.com.

Nollaig Shona Daoibh!

#celticchristmas #celticchristmasmusic

Celtic Music Magazine: Farewell to the Drunken Piper

Todd Wiley — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 13:00:57 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

It is Todd once again. Be sure to check out the Kickstarter for the Celtic Podfest. This week’s issue includes new episodes of our own Irish and Celtic Music Podcast and Pub Songs and Stories. The other highlighted podcasts are In Tune with Tradition and Copperplate Time. The articles this week are an interview with A.S. Fanning, The Prodigals claiming a Guinness world record, and the Georgina Campbell Irish Food and Hospitality Awards. We included a new list of albums. Also our spotlight shines on the Harpers Ferry Highland games taking place October 3rd and 4th at Sam Michaels Park in WV, with a kickoff party on October 2, at The Barn of Harpers Ferry. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

KICKSTART THE CELTIC PODFEST

The 2027 Kickstarter for the Celtic PodFest and Nerdy Arts Market is now live. We need you to make this a successful event. All you have to do is a make a pledge to support the festival. Any amount is great and will help us reach our goal. But you can get some great rewards when you pick a reward level.
We are currently at $2,886 of our $3,700 goal; that’s only $814 away. Also announced are our stretch goals:

- $6,000 — Bonus Concert for Backers
  Every supporter gets a second full concert delivered as a podcast, just for backers. More of that live festival magic, yours to keep.
- $7,000 — Bigger, Better Promotion
  We grow the advertising budget so more Celtic music lovers hear about the festival. A fuller room, a bigger day, and a stronger crowd for the bands you're helping fund.
- $8,000 — Celtic PodFest on Video
  We bring cameras to the stage. Each band gets 3 to 5 songs filmed live, so you can watch the festival, not just hear it. Backers get the video performances to keep.
- $9,000 — Band Interviews on the Podcast
  Short, fun interviews with each band, recorded around the festival and released on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. More stories, more spotlight, more love for the artists.
- $10,000 — Concerts for the World
  We release a full concert to the official Irish & Celtic Music Podcast for everyone, not just backers. The music travels far beyond one Sunday in Georgia.

As soon as we hit our goal, I will confirm with the artists I picked for this latest festival.

Make a pledge now!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST: FAREWELL TO THE DRUNKEN PIPER #776

Aaron Dolan, Blazin' Fiddles, Niamh Parsons, Flynn Cohen, The Sternwheelers, McFloosey, Téada with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, Clay Babies, Adagio Trio, Moor of Dundee, The Crazy Rogues, Celtic Cross, First Highland Watch, Gaelic Mishap, Dallahan

Raise a glass to our latest patrons of the podcast: Mark Huffman, Jammon, Maureen P Devine

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

PUB SONGS & STORIES #318: THOSE CHARACTERS DIED, HOUSE OF HAMILL STORY, VIDEO PUB SONGS

Sally Brown sails in from Balscadden Bay. Those characters died… again.. in song. And Malloy gets his story told. Pub Songs & Stories tries something new: video. Music from McFloosey, Marc Gunn, House of Hamill. This is Pub Songs & Stories #318.

Listen Here!

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

Ruin – by Syr
Devoted – by Andy Irvine
Vous reviendrez! – by Antoine Gauthier
The Four Seasons of the Emerald Isle – by Elian Whispers
Celtic Acoustic: Melodies of the Spring Square – by YUNOKIA
Bio (Live 2026) – by Aile
Tartan Rants and Rhapsodies – by Isabel Oliart, Sammy Wetstein, Anne Hooper
Tales of the Realm – by Ciara Quinn

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

IN TUNE WITH TRADITION – PERSPECTIVES ON SESSION ETIQUETTE IN IRISH TRADITIONAL MUSIC: PEOPLE FIRST, MUSIC SECOND

This episode of In Tune with Tradition was recorded in person in Miltown Malbay during Willie Clancy Week 2025, (shortly after the podcast was officially launched), where Clare fiddle player, teacher and broadcaster Joan Hanrahan joins Tara Connaghan for a warm, reflective conversation about what Irish traditional music sessions really are: shared spaces built on listening, trust, and people first. They talk through session etiquette, intergenerational learning, the role of repetition and repertoire, and why music can feel healing in moments of grief, joy, and everything in between.

Listen here

TEN MINUTES WITH… A.S. FANNING

DUBLIN-born, Berlin-based singer-songwriter A.S. Fanning returns to Ireland this month for his first headline tour here in nine years.
The former frontman of The Last Tycoons, whose brooding baritone has drawn comparisons with Leonard Cohen, Nick Cave and Scott Walker, released his fourth solo album, Take Me Back to Nowhere, in February, while a new B-sides EP, Unbearable Miracle, arrives on September 18…

To read more, go here!

COPPERPLATE TIME 550

BOTHY BAND, LIAM FLYNN, PLANXTY, MICK, LOUISE & MICHELLE MULCAHY, LAOISE KELLY & TIARNÁN ÓDUINNCHINN, McCARTHY FAMILY, THE BONNY MEN, DAITHI GORMLEY & ELAINE O’REILLY, THE DUBLIN TRIO, DANNY O’MAHONY & MICHEAL O’RAGHAILLAIGH, MARTIN HAYES & DENNIS, RALPH McTELL & LAIM O’FLYNN, JOHN McEVOY, DANU, JOHN DOYLE, ANDY IRVINE, 4 MEN & A DOG, PLANXTY

Listen to the Show

THE PRODIGALS CLAIM GUINNESS WORLD RECORD FOR LONGEST BAND RESIDENCY AT NEW YORK VENUE

New York's The Prodigals have officially earned their place in the Guinness Book of World Records as the title holders for the longest annual residency by a band. The Celtic punk legends have called Paddy Reilly's Music Bar on Second Avenue home for 29 consecutive years, dating back to their first performance on St. Patrick's Day in 1997.
The band recently celebrated their historic certification with a special Half-Way to St. Patrick's Day performance on Friday, September 18th at Paddy Reilly's, the venue that has been their base for more than 1,500 performances. The evening brought together longtime fans, former band members, and special guests from New York's vibrant Irish music community to honor this remarkable milestone…

To read more, go here!

IRELAND'S BEST FINE DINING RESTAURANT REVEALED AT GEORGINA CAMPBELL AWARDS 2026

Ireland has long maintained a reputation for high quality hospitality and it is safe to say the restaurant industry remains in good hands.
Some of the country's leading eateries and hotels have been crowned at Georgina Campbell's 2026 Irish Food and Hospitality Awards, with plenty of famous faces in the mix…

To read more, go here!

HARPERS FERRY HIGHLAND GAMES

Step into the heart of Celtic heritage at the Harpers Ferry Highland Games, a celebration of the ancient Scottish traditions that test strength, skill, and spirit. Hosted by the Harpers Ferry Celtic Culture Society, this festival welcomes all to experience the vibrant culture, music, and athleticism that define the Highland Games.
Join us at Sam Michaels Park in Jefferson County, West Virginia, for a weekend filled with tradition, entertainment, and community.

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

September 24, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast: Farewell to the Drunken Piper #776

Mitchell Petersen — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 11:00:41 +0000

Pipes, fiddles, and a touch of rebellion collide as Aaron Dolan's uilleann pipes open the show, leading into Scottish fire from Blazin' Fiddles and the timeless ache of Niamh Parsons' balladry. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #776. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Aaron Dolan, Blazin' Fiddles, Niamh Parsons, Flynn Cohen, The Sternwheelers, McFloosey, Téada with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, Clay Babies, Adagio Trio, Moor of Dundee, The Crazy Rogues, Celtic Cross, First Highland Watch, Gaelic Mishap, Dallahan

Marc Gunn, Aaron Dolan, Blazin' Fiddles, Niamh Parsons, Téada, Dallahan, Gaelic Mishap, McFloosey, Celtic Cross, Clay Babies

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

0:02 – Intro: Gaelic Mishap

0:09 – Aaron Dolan – “Farewell to Tir na nÓg” from Farewell to Tir Na nÓg

1:38 – WELCOME

3:32 – Blazin' Fiddles – “Sids” from Incendo

8:12 – Niamh Parsons – “Done with Bonaparte” from Heart's Desire

11:28 – Flynn Cohen – “Farrell O'Gara / Good Morning To Your Nightcap” from Dead String Rhythm

14:43 – The Sternwheelers – “Madam I'm A Darling”

20:00 – FEEDBACK

25:30 – McFloosey – “Sally Brown” from Balscadden Bay

28:11 – Téada with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra conducted by Karen Ní Bhroin – “Planxty Crilly | Micho Russell's | Patsy Geary's” (planxty/polka/slide) from Orchestrating 25

Pronunciation guide: Téada is “TAY – da.” Hear it here.

33:17 – Clay Babies – “Irish Border Collie” from In Other Words

35:47 – Adagio Trio – “Kelvin Grove” from Celtic Heart

37:46 – Moor of Dundee – “Loch Lomond” (feat. Dr. Mike Bogle) from Celtic Jazz from the Moor of Dundee Featuring Dr. Mike Bogle – EP

42:43 – THANKS

44:14 – The Crazy Rogues – “Empire of Sand” from Advanced Roguery

47:16 – Celtic Cross – “Right Now”

49:42 – First Highland Watch – “Godzilla” from Drunken Piper

53:42 – Gaelic Mishap – “Crew of the Damned and Dead” from From the Edge

58:05 – CLOSING

59:03 – Dallahan – “Beaton's” from Speak of the Devil

1:03:32 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

CELTIC PODFEST AND ARTS MARKET

The Kickstarter for the 2027 Celtic PodFest and Arts Market is now live. I need your help funding this festival. Your generosity will ensure not only that the festival happens, but that each of the artists at the festival get paid.

The event is currently scheduled for the last Sunday of February 2027, but it greatly depends on whether we can raise the money to fund it. And if you do decide to fund the festival, there are a bunch of great rewards including a flashback to one of my favorite shirt designs.

Head on over to our Kickstarter for the Second Celtic PodFest. You’ll find a link in the shownotes.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

Every episode takes more than good tunes. It takes an audio engineer smoothing out the rough edges, a graphic designer making the show look as good as it sounds, and enough server space to keep 700 – plus episodes online and playable. That's what your support covers.

Thank you to every patron who makes this possible. Beyond keeping the show running, patrons get early access to new episodes, a private community of fellow Celtic music lovers, and first dibs on Celtic Invasion Vacations announcements. It's a genuinely good crew to be part of.

Raise a glass to our latest patrons of the podcast: Mark Huffman, Jammon, Maureen P Devine

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

I am now accepting applications for people to join the Celtic Invasion of Isle of Skye hiking trip in 2027 at http://celticinvasion.com/

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Sarah Shorter emailed: “Hi Mark

I use podcast addict. A couple of weeks ago episodes 678ish to current dropped off the feed. I'm still getting new ones and I'm downloading the protest songs now. But I thought it might need bringing to your attention.”

Patrick Rieger sent St Patrick's Day Feedback from 2026: “Hi Marc,

My family and I marched in Pittsburgh's Saint Patrick's Day Parade again but this time for one of our other activities, representing the Amateur Astronomers Association of Pittsburgh. We were joined by three other members of the club. As far as I know, this is the first time in its 97 year history the club was represented in the parade, which itself started in 1869. The parade celebrates Saint Patrick and the Irish, but also Pittsburgh and its people, and the club is part of that.

The parade started at 10AM but since we were near the back, we didn't start moving until 11:30, so we had time to talk with other participants.. I love the variety of groups in the parade, One of our members brought a small telescope with a Sun filter so we could safely show people the Sun while we waited. The Saturday Light Brigade radio program likes to hear from people at the parade so I gave them a call.

Here are some photos. Yes, that is someone dressed as a pierogi on a scooter, pierogies are big in Pittsburgh. My wife and I carried the banner. It was a joy to be in the parade again, and I hope the club is willing for us to do it again next year.

We didn't go to any celebrations, they would be too crowded and too crazy. We went to one of our observatories where people brought games and snacked on pizza instead. I'll get back to the pub after the holiday.”

John L Pearson emailed about the Celtic Protest Songs episode: “Marc, I've been listening forever and have written you a couple other times over the years. I had to write and thank you for this great and necessary episode. Not only a necessary idea and thing to do in our current moment, but beautifully done. Great selection of songs, and I love the history and commentary you wove into the episode. I'm sure you'll get some feedback complaining that you shouldn't get political, but right now it is necessary. And really, it's hardly even political; it's just talking about the reality of the moment. Thanks as always for your great work and especially this inspirational episode. I do a little daily substack trying to stay engaged with all that is going on without letting it overwhelm me. I wrote tomorrow's post while listening to this episode! Slainte”

Pub Songs & Stories #318: Those Characters Died, House of Hamill Story, Video Pub Songs

Mitchell Petersen — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 11:00:04 +0000

Sally Brown sails in from Balscadden Bay. Those characters died… again.. in song. And Malloy gets his story told. Pub Songs & Stories tries something new: video. Music from McFloosey, Marc Gunn, House of Hamill. This is Pub Songs & Stories #318.

0:02 – This is PubSongs & Stories #318

0:20 – McFloosey “Sally Brown” from Balscadden Bay

3:01 – WELCOME TO PUB SONGS & STORIES

Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters. Discover the stories behind the songs from the heart of the Celtic pub scene. I am your bard, Marc Gunn, also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

If you’re new to the show, please follow us. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather.

3:22 – TODAY’S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY MY GUNN RUNNERS OF PATREON

The modern music business relies on the generosity of people just like you. That is a big part of how I’m able to produce this podcast and create new music every month.

Gunn Runners get episodes before anyone else. You also get a ton of exclusive MP3s, bootleg concerts, videos and lots more. All for as little as $5 per month. Here’s what’s

3:44 – NEW ON PATREON IN SEPTEMBER

PSS Video: “Dream Chaser” cover of Willie Nelson
Rough Cut and Lyrics: “Exterminate”
Blog: Latest Makeover of Album Pins
Kickstarter for the Celtic PodFest in on February 28, 2027.
Nerdy Wonderland Dec 6, 2026
Celtic Christmas Music launch

5:38 – UPCOMING SHOWS

Oct 3: LUG Con, Atlanta, Ga
Oct 31: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Atlanta, Ga
Nov 7: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Atlanta, Ga
Nov 6-8: CONjuration, Duluth, Ga
Nov 14: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Atlanta, Ga
Nov 28: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Atlanta, Ga
Dec 5: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Atlanta, Ga
Dec 6: Nerdy Wonderland, Avondale Estates, Ga

6:26 – PUB SONGS & STORIES VIDEO

Welcome to Pub Songs & Stories video edition. I perform a song live and then share the story at the end.

If there’s a song you’d like to see me perform, email follow@celtfather to make a live song request. Some, I will post here on the podcast. Some will be video only.

6:53 – Marc Gunn “Those Characters Died” from Sci Fi Drinking Songs (LIVE)

11:28 – PUB SONGS & STORIES VIDEO: OUTRO

14:45 – TODAY’S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com.

Come hike with me on the Isle of Skye in 2027.

15:44 – STORY OF THAT MAN MALLOY

19:19 – House of Hamill “That Man Malloy” from Wildfire

22:57 – STORY OF THAT MAN MALLOY: OUTRO

24:16 – CREDITS

Thanks for listening to Pub Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen.

Before we go — one more thought. Celtic music didn't come from concert halls. It came from kitchens, docksides, and village greens — places built by community, not convenience. That same spirit is what protects the land today. You don't have to fix the whole planet by yourself. Buy from a local farmer. Fix something instead of tossing it. Plant one thing that feeds a bee. Small, local, ordinary acts — that's how communities have always taken care of the places they love.

Sláinte, and thanks for listening.

Join the Quest and Sing Along at www.pubsong.com!

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #775 Celtic PodFest Kickstarter Bonus

Mitchell Petersen — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 14:44:12 +0000

We’re talking about the Kickstarter for the 2027 Celtic PodFest and sharing some music. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Marc Gunn, Olivia Bradley, May Will Bloom, House of Hamill, Kinnfolk, The Muckers

SUPPORT CELTIC PODFEST AND NERDY ARTS MARKET

A huge thanks to everyone who made a pledge to make the Celtic PodFest happen. We are close to hitting our goal. Most of the rewards won’t be available until the festival launches on Sunday, February 28, 2027 at The Lost Druid Brewery in Avondale Estates, Ga.

If you’re interested in some limited-edition swag, including CDs, album pins, and shirts, then make sure you visit the Kickstarter. You can still make some late pledges to the festival to make it a smashing success.

Head on over to our Kickstarter for the Celtic PodFest. You’ll find a link in the shownotes.

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

0:31 – Olivia Bradley – “County Down (feat. Dave Curley)” from Misty Morning Shore

5:54 – PODFEST & NERDY ARTS MARKET

7:58 – May Will Bloom – “I'll Tell Me Ma” from I'll Tell My Ma

10:17 – House of Hamill – “William Taylor” from Folk Hero

15:11 – SUPPORT THE SHOW

18:56 – Kinnfolk – “The Water's Rising” from Star Above The Mountain

24:37 – The Muckers – “Paddy on the Railway” from The Muckers

27:49 – CLOSING

28:40 – Marc Gunn – “Wild Colonial Boy” from St Patrick's Day

32:26 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

CELTIC PODFEST AND NERDY ARTS MARKET

Head on over to our Kickstarter for the Celtic PodFest. You’ll find a link in the shownotes.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

This week especially, I want to thank the Patrons who make it possible to sit down with artists like House of Hamill and actually have room to ask fun questions about the music.

Patron perks include early access to episodes, and yes, an extended interview just for patrons. Head over to Patreon to see what’s waiting there.

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

In 2027, we're hiking the Isle of Skye. Two slots just opened up. If you’d like to join us, head on over to http://celticinvasion.com/. It is first come, first served.

And I can tell you we will be staying in Portree on the Isle of Skye and we’ll be hiking the Fairy Pools. Come join us!

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Celtic Music Magazine: Spirits of the Highland Road

Todd Wiley — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 13:00:08 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

Hello fellow Celtophiles I is your intrepid editor, Todd, once again. Don’t forget to back the Celtic Podfest and Arts Market! In this issue we have a new issue there are new episodes of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast and Pub Songs & Stories. The other featured podcasts are Traveling in Ireland and Celt in a Twist. We have a list of new Celtic albums as well. The articles spotlighted are about Jane Gormley’s book A Seat by the Fire, the Truro Food Festival, and an interview with Irish singer Susi Pagel. The festival highlighted is Colorado Highland Games taking place September 26 & 27, 2026 at the Denver Polo Club in Sedalia, CO. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

KICKSTART THE CELTIC PODFEST

The 2027 Kickstarter for the Celtic PodFest and Nerdy Arts Market is now live. We need you to make this a successful event. All you have to do is a make a pledge to support the festival. Any amount is great and will help us reach our goal. But you can get some great rewards when you pick a reward level.
As soon as we hit our goal, I will confirm with the artists I picked for this latest festival.

Make a pledge now!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #775: SPIRITS OF THE HIGHLAND ROAD

TEUD: The Hebridean Fiddle Project, Juha Rossi, McFloosey, Jared Bogle, Jesse Ferguson, Celtic Underground, Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson, MacCumhaill and the Gang, Blackwillow Starling, Christine Collister, Bang on the Ear, Blaggards, Boiled In Lead, The Elders, Bill Mullen

A big thanks to our newest Patron of the Podcast: Jeannie Flannery

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

PUB SONGS & STORIES #317: BRING ME HOME, BOYS

A question about AI music. A debate over CDs, vinyl, and album pins. And a sci-fi drinking song that carries you home. Pub Songs & Stories returns with the tales behind the tunes, from the Celtic pub scene to a Celtic Invasion of Galicia. Music from Tara's Folk, Heather Dale, and Marc Gunn. This is Pub Songs & Stories #317.

Listen to the Show

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

Lynnhaven Bay – by Itinerant Band
On a Quiet Street Where Old Ghosts Meet – by Jay Michaels
In Other Words – by Clay Babies
Celtic Fantasy: Midnight Rain at the Skyport – by YUNOKIA

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

TRAVELING IN IRELAND – LEAP CARD IN IRELAND: WHAT VISITORS NEED TO KNOW

One of the easiest ways to save money during your Ireland vacation is to use public transportation whenever possible.
I outlined the multiple ways to get around Ireland here, and in this article I’m focusing on the Leap Card, a reusable travel card that can be used on many public transportation services in Dublin and other cities and towns across Ireland.
While a Leap Card can make public transportation easier and less expensive, choosing the right card for your vacation depends on where you are traveling and how often you will use it. Both the standard TFI Leap Card and the Leap Visitor Card are useful for tourists, they work differently and neither is a nationwide transportation pass.

Listen here

JANE GORMLEY BRINGS IRISH VOICES TO THE PAGE

FROM dairy farmers to mischievous 80-year-olds, Kildare writer and Craicly founder Jane Gormley has gathered the stories of ordinary Irish people in her new book, A Seat by the Fire.
Due out on October 26 through Cork-based publisher Mercier Press, the book brings together 22 stories from the people who have taken part in Craicly events over the past three years, alongside Gormley’s own writing.
As Gormley discovered while building Craicly, you don't need to be a professional storyteller to be a very good one…

To read more, go here!

CELT IN A TWIST: SEPTEMBER 15, 2026

So, that was Labour Day. We relish the last Summer Scraps from Alba’s Edge, Open the heavens with a Summer Storm from Patrick Mangan, tipple some Celtic Creole and Scottish Celtronica. You’ll even hear sounds from Finland and Galicia when you’ve got yer Celt In A Twist, this week with Patricia Fraser!

Listen to the Show

TRURO FOOD FESTIVAL RETURNS WITH MICHELIN-STARRED CHEF AND NEW EVENING FEASTS

More than 30 chefs, live music, street food and a series of new intimate dining events are heading to Truro this month as the city’s popular food festival returns.
Truro Food Festival will take over Lemon Quay from Wednesday to Sunday (September 23 to 27), promising five days of food, drink, live cooking and entertainment – with the main daytime festival free to attend…

To read more, go here!

BEHIND THE MUSIC – SUSI PAGEL

Northern Irish singer Susi Pagel has released her new EP, Worry Dolls, and the single Part Of Me'. We asked her the BIG questions . . .

To read more, go here!

COLORADO HIGHLAND GAMES

The Colorado Highland Games (formerly known as the Colorado Scottish Festival) is returning to the Denver Polo Club. Join us Saturday and Sunday, September 26th & 27th! Our Games is hosted by the St Andrew Society of Colorado where “the Scots are a Mile High” with 2026 celebrating our 62nd annual Highland Games!
Since 1963, the Games has brought traditional Scottish Heavy Athletics, piping and drumming, Scottish Highland and Country dancing, as well as lively and fascinating Celtic culture to our Colorado friends and neighbors. Enjoy Celtic music and entertainment, Dogs of the British Isles, British Car Show (Sunday), Celtic food and merchandise, historical re-enactment with the Renaissance Scots, research your Scottish heritage and find your Clan!
On Saturday, don’t miss the Bonnie Knees contest, and a 7pm concert (artist to be announced). For the very best Games VIP experience, join our Thistle Club! And be sure to try a bit of haggis and whisky tasting! Enjoy a day of Scotland in your own backyard!
Some of the entertainers performing are Skean Dubh, Indigent Row, Old Blind Dogs, Seven Nations, Cask & Chisel, Once Upon A Tune, and more!!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

September 17, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #775: Spirits if the Highland Road

Mitchell Petersen — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 11:00:35 +0000

From Scotland to Ireland to the American heartland, this episode moves through the many rooms of Celtic music without ever leaving home. Waltzes give way to reels, and quiet ballads open into full-throated anthems. Each artist adds a new voice to the chorus, and the hour closes on the sound of a beginning. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #775. — Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

TEUD: The Hebridean Fiddle Project, Juha Rossi, McFloosey, Jared Bogle, Jesse Ferguson, Celtic Underground, Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson, MacCumhaill and the Gang, Blackwillow Starling, Christine Collister, Bang on the Ear, Blaggards, Boiled In Lead, The Elders, Bill Mullen

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

0:02 – Intro: Cragganmore Distillery

0:10 – TEUD: The Hebridean Fiddle Project “Gaelic Waltzes” from TEUD

3:39 – WELCOME

5:30 – Dan Possumato “The Eavesdropper / The Diplodocus (feat. Kevin Burke & Kathy Fallon)” from An Teachín Gorm

An Teachín Gorm is Irish for “The Blue Cottage,” said roughly “on CHAH – keen GUR – um.”

8:31 – McFloosey “Shenandoah” from Fiacre's Fell

10:54 – Jared Bogle “Mr Standfast / The Trip to Durrow (Reels)” from The Old Road Home

14:25 – Jesse Ferguson “Who Would Not Fight for Charlie?” from Carried Forward

16:20 – FEEDBACK

19:46 – Celtic Underground “Come Back Paddy Reilly” from You Can Always Go Home

24:31 – Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson “The Westport / The Manchester” from Once Through the Hall

27:44 – MacCumhaill and the Gang “Willow Maid” from 2

MacCumhaill is pronounced “mac – COOL,” as in Fionn mac Cumhaill (Finn McCool).

33:15 – Blackwillow Starling “Fire Within” from Thornaeppel

36:59 – Christine Collister “The Mask” from I Am of Ireland / Yeats in Song

39:27 – THANKS

41:16 – Bang on the Ear “Heave Away” from Highland Road

44:18 – Boiled In Lead “Fast Reels” from King of the Dogwoods

47:51 – The Elders “Shores of Farewell” from The Spirits and The Sea

52:14 – CLOSING

52:55 – Bill Mullen “Rising O' the Moon” from The Beginning

55:39 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Here's something worth celebrating. In most of the world, clean energy is now the cheapest electricity ever produced. Solar and wind cost less to build and run than anything that came before, and those prices keep dropping. That means lower bills, cleaner air, and good jobs, often right in your own community. The future we've been hoping for is already showing up on the grid.

And here's the best part. You have a real say in how fast it arrives. So much of this is decided close to home, by city councils, county boards, utility commissions, and state representatives. These are the people who choose what gets built and how quickly your neighborhood feels the benefits. When you show up, they listen.

So vote in every election, especially the local ones. Get to know where the folks on your ballot stand on clean energy, and cheer on the ones moving things forward. Talk to your neighbors. Show up to a meeting. Every voice adds momentum, and momentum is exactly what turns a bright possibility into the world we live in.

The music will always be here. Let's build a future worth playing it in.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

CELTIC PODFEST AND ARTS MARKET

Head on over to our Kickstarter for the Second Celtic PodFest. You’ll find a link in the shownotes.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

Here's a HUGE thank you to all of the generous patrons of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Your support each month is what keeps this show alive. It pays our audio engineer so that every episode sounds its very best. It puts money straight into the hands of the independent artists featured on the show, because we buy their music. And it covers the server costs that carry these songs to listeners all around the world.

Becoming a patron is easy, and it comes with some wonderful rewards. You get a personal podcast feed to take the music with you. You get to vote in the Celtic Top 20 every week. And you join a whole community of Celtic music lovers who make all of this possible.

A big thanks to our newest Patron of the Podcast: Jeannie Flannery

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

I am now accepting applications for people to join the Celtic Invasion of Isle of Skye hiking trip in 2027 at http://celticinvasion.com/

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Patrick Rieger emailed: “A New Band! Devil Take the Women Hi Marc,

Some exciting news here in Pittsburgh for people who like Irish music. An Irish band formed just a few years ago, Devil Take the Women, the name taken from “Whiskey in the Jar”. The band is made up of Lauren on acoustic guitar and main vocals, Megan on fiddle and vocals, and Chris on the drums. The Irish bands and musicians I have seen and heard about in Pittsburgh have been around for many years. So to have a new band is pretty cool. My family and I, plus our friend Abby, saw Devil Take the Women for the first time on July 18 at Mullaney's Harp & Fiddle Irish Pub, and it was a great show. They have lots of energy, and a great stage personality. They throw in a few non – Irish songs from time to time, but most of the time it's Irish, which is good for us who have not been happy with the decline in the amount of Irish music played in the pubs for a number of years. We will be seeing them again, and hopefully get some more friends to join us.”

PATRICK REIGER

Martha Clancy emailed: “Hi Marc, I am a Celtic harpist Interested in your e – book about how to promote music in the digital age. You have actually featured me in the past.

I used to be able to make money with my CDs on Qvc network and other outlets but now find it very difficult. I have composed many songs in the traditional manner which I would like to promote and find a way to make an income stream with the music I’ve already produced. I have four CDs I have collaborated on several others. Someone has put much of my music on iTunes which you can search Martha Clancy and iTunes for but I don’t get any income from that.

My website is www.harpsounds.com

Pub Songs & Stories #317: Bring Me Home, Boys

Mitchell Petersen — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 11:00:06 +0000

A question about AI music. A debate over CDs, vinyl, and album pins. And a sci-fi drinking song that carries you home. Pub Songs & Stories returns with the tales behind the tunes, from the Celtic pub scene to a Celtic Invasion of Galicia. Music from Tara's Folk, Heather Dale, and Marc Gunn. This is Pub Songs & Stories #317.

0:02 – INTRO

0:20 – Tara's Folk “O'Neils” from remember how we fall

4:10 – WELCOME TO PUB SONGS & STORIES

If you’re new to the show, please follow us. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather.

5:01 – UPCOMING SHOWS

Sep 3-7: Dragon Con, Atlanta, Ga with Brobdingnagian Bards
Oct 3: LUG Con, Atlanta, Ga
Oct 31: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Atlanta, Ga
Nov 7: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Atlanta, Ga
Nov 14: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Atlanta, Ga
Nov 28: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Atlanta, Ga
Dec 5: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Atlanta, Ga
Dec 6: Nerdy Wonderland, Avondale Estates, Ga

6:02 – AI MUSIC

11:39 – Heather Dale “Pied Piper” from Fairytale

14:49 – CDS VS VINYL VS ALBUM PINS

25:16 – TODAY’S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com.

Come hike with me on the Isle of Skye in 2027.

26:22 – STUFF I LEARNED ON A CELTIC INVASION OF GALICIA

31:41 – STORY OF BRING ME HOME, BOYS

35:59 – Marc Gunn “Bring Me Home, Boys” from Sci Fi Drinking Songs

39:44 – CLOSING

This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I’m performing.

Finally, remember: summer is a reminder of what's at stake. Longer days, warmer nights, and the beauty of the natural world that Celtic music has celebrated for centuries.

Scientists are united: human activity is changing our climate, and we're already feeling it. But here's what the headlines don't always tell you. We have the tools to fight back. Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. You can reduce your waste, choose cleaner energy, and push your elected leaders to act. The outdoors we love, the rivers, the coastlines, the long summer evenings, are worth protecting.

Start a conversation today. The facts are out there, and the future is ours to shape.

Join the Quest and Sing Along at www.pubsong.com!

#pubstories

Celtic Music Magazine: A Bonnie Rogue’s Unexpected Voyage

Todd Wiley — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 13:00:57 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

Hello all Todd here once again. This week we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. From the Brushy Fork of John's Creek to the streets of Wexford Town, this collection spans reels, marches, shanties, and songs. A wounded hussar, a recruiting sergeant, and a man of the house all make an appearance, woven together by fiddle and voice from Ireland, Scotland, Québec, and beyond. The other podcast we showcase are The Scottish History Podcast & Gerry Quinn’s Irish Radio Show. The articles we feature are about Anne Donaldson’s debut novel, The Choir of Man, and “Other Voices: The Anam Sessions”. There is a list of albums released over the past week. The highlighted festival this week is the Circle City Irish Fest taking place September 18 & 19 at Edna Balz Lacy Park, in Indianapolis, IN. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #774: A BONNIE ROUGE'S UNEXPECTED VOYAGE

Alexis Chartrand & Nicolas Babineau, Hildaland, Jesse Ferguson, Celtic Underground, Marc Gunn, Matt & Shannon Heaton, Mick Flannery, Trí, The Leftovers, Mary – Kate Spring Lee, Derek Byrne, Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson, Hadrian's Wall, Adam Agee & Jon Sousa, Release the Craicen

Special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Fuzzy, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Rick Boyce, Round Rock Image Creators, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

CELTIC PODFEST AND ARTS MARKET

The 2026 Celtic PodFest was a tremendous success. Kinnfolk and The Muckers joined me for our first festival at The Lost Druid Brewery in Avondale Estates, Ga. The festival happened because of many of my listeners who pledged at our start-of-the-year Kickstarter. We had a great turnout, but we could’ve done better if we had planned it more than a month out.
There is now a Kickstarter Pre-Launch Page for our Second Celtic PodFest. You’ll find a link in the shownotes. This fundraiser will hopefully allow us to bring a second festival to you.
The Kickstarter will launch in September. Will you help?

JOIN THE CELTIC INVASION OF THE ISLE OF SKYE

Skye is not just one of the most-stunning destinations in Scotland. It is also a hiking Mecca. There are so many great places to head out into the wilderness and experience the incredible wilds of Skye.
In 2027, we're invading Skye with an emphasis on hiking. We'll be out hiking for 2-4 hours a day for at least four days.
Get ready for an exciting adventure filled with exhausting joy.

Learn more about the Celtic Invasion of Skye!

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

Leaving Home – by Tommi Atah
Este es mi silencio – by Almaira Vela
Arthur & Fairflower – by Dan Eyde
Celtica III – by Celtic Night
Hello 22 – by Kenn Gordon & 1916
Echoes – by Holler & Crow

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

THE SCOTTISH HISTORY PODCAST: 134 – THE BATTLE OF PINKIE & THE BATTLE OF STIRLING BRIDGE

This week in Scottish History sees TWO significant battle anniversaries!

Listen here

CORK AUTHOR EXPLORES IRISH EMIGRATION IN DEBUT NOVEL

ANNE DONALDSON'S debut novel, And They Never Looked Back, grew from her lifelong love of history and genealogy.
The story follows a family who leave the Irish midlands in the 19th century, crossing the Atlantic before travelling through the Erie Canal and settling in Escanaba, Michigan.
At the centre of the story is Anna, the last surviving member of her family, who finds letters from Ireland among her mother’s things and begins recording the story of her family and their new life in America…

To read more, go here!

GERRY QUINN'S IRISH RADIO SHOW SEPTEMBER 6 2026

Call in from Breege Rowley of Swinford, Co. Mayo, Ireland, writer and director of All Our Yesterday's

Listen to the Show

THE CHOIR OF MAN IS ONE OF THE BEST THINGS YOU WILL EVER SEE AT THE HALL FOR CORNWALL

In these somewhat dire times when around 60 pubs shut every month in the UK and, worse, when power hungry ego-crazed male leaders are seemingly hellbent on ruining the planet, there is no better time to see The Choir of Man…

To read more, go here!

IRISH HERITAGE SITES TAKE CENTER STAGE AS MUSIC SERIES ANAM SESSIONS RETURNS

The Office of Public Works and Other Voices have announced that “Other Voices: The Anam Sessions” will return this September, bringing four musical performances filmed inside some of Ireland's most storied heritage sites to a global audience. Now in its third year, the series pairs contemporary Irish musicians with historic settings to celebrate the living connection between music, culture and heritage…

To read more, go here!

CIRCLE CITY IRISH FESTIVAL

As the premier Irish Festival in Indianapolis, we invite you to weekend of high-energy live music, authentic food, and cold Irish beer. From our artisan vendors and cultural showcases to the chance to win BIG in our annual raffles, there is something for everyone.
Some of the entertainers you can see are Derek Warfield & the Young Wolfe Tones, Kennedy's Kitchen, 45 RPM, Laughing Jack, and more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

September 10, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #774: A Bonnie Rouge’s Unexpected Voyage

Mitchell Petersen — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 11:00:18 +0000

From the Brushy Fork of John's Creek to the streets of Wexford Town, this collection spans reels, marches, shanties, and songs. A wounded hussar, a recruiting sergeant, and a man of the house all make an appearance, woven together by fiddle and voice from Ireland, Scotland, Québec, and beyond.. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #774. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Alexis Chartrand & Nicolas Babineau, Hildaland, Jesse Ferguson, Celtic Underground, Marc Gunn, Matt & Shannon Heaton, Mick Flannery, Trí, The Leftovers, Mary – Kate Spring Lee, Derek Byrne, Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson, Hadrian's Wall, Adam Agee & Jon Sousa, Release the Craicen

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

0:02 – Intro: Royal Lochnagar Distillery

0:11 – Alexis Chartrand & Nicolas Babineau “Le Cyclone” from Le Cyclone

3:44 – WELCOME

6:32 – Hildaland “The Brushy Fork Of John's Creek” (feat. Ethan Setiawan & Louise Bichan) from Fiddle Tunes (feat. Ethan Setiawan & Louise Bichan) – EP

9:40 – Jesse Ferguson “Roddy McCorley” from Carried Forward

14:15 – Celtic Underground “Man of the House Reel” from You Can Always Go Home

15:47 – Marc Gunn “Bring Me Home, Boys” from Sci Fi Drinking Songs

19:32 – FEEDBACK

20:33 – Matt & Shannon Heaton “Two Cardinals” (march) from Whirring Wings

23:21 – Mick Flannery “Bonnie Rogue” from The House Must Win

25:57 – Trí “L'ennui / The Recruiting Sergeant” from 1919

31:06 – The Leftovers “Wexford Town” from Heart of Buffalo

34:35 – Mary – Kate Spring Lee “The Wounded Hussar” from Tunes in the Morning

38:12 – THANKS

40:18 – Derek Byrne “Mingulay Boat Song” (feat. Paddygrass) from The Unexpected Voyage

44:54 – Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson “The Pride of Clyde No. 1 / The Drummer Boy / The Pride of Clyde No. 2” from Once Through the Hall

48:44 – Hadrian's Wall “Glengarry to Maidstone” from Play Us a Tune

52:51 – Adam Agee & Jon Sousa “Coppers and Brass / Munster Buttermilk” from Ceol nag Carad

(Ceol na gCarad is pronounced “Kee – ohl nuh GAR – ad,” Irish for “music of friendship.”)

56:51 – CLOSING

58:01 – Release the Craicen “The Wellerman” from Live! Songs on a Boat

1:01:26 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Clean energy is now the cheapest power humanity has ever built. Solar and wind beat coal and gas on price, and last year they grew fast enough to cover the world's entire increase in electricity demand. The technology works. The costs keep falling. The only thing slowing it down is people who profit from the old way of doing things.

Fossil fuel interests spend enormous sums to protect their business. They fund campaigns, shape legislation, and stall the shift to cleaner, cheaper energy. That is not a market at work. That is a market being held back.

So here is the call to action: pay attention to who your representatives listen to. Ask them where they stand on clean energy. Vote like your electricity bill and your grandkids depend on it, because they do.

The sun keeps shining. The wind keeps blowing. Let's stop letting anyone stand between us and the cheapest, cleanest power ever made.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

CELTIC PODFEST AND ARTS MARKET

The 2026 Celtic PodFest was a tremendous success. Kinnfolk and The Muckers joined me for our first festival at The Lost Druid Brewery in Avondale Estates, Ga. The festival happened because of many of my listeners who pledged at our start – of – the – year Kickstarter. We had a great turnout, but we could’ve done better if we had planned it more than a month out.

There is now a Kickstarter Pre – Launch Page for our Second Celtic PodFest. You’ll find a link in the shownotes. This fundraiser will hopefully allow us to bring a second festival to you.

The Kickstarter will launch in September. Will you help?

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

Every week, the generosity of our patrons keeps this podcast alive. Your pledges pay our audio engineer, buy music directly from the artists we feature, and cover the server costs that carry the show to listeners around the world. It all adds up to a podcast that stays free and independent.

Becoming a patron comes with its own rewards. You'll get the show ad – free and early, a personal update from me every week, a spot in our community, and a hand in shaping which songs make the cut. Some folks join just to give back. Others come for the extras. Either way, you become part of the story.

Special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Fuzzy, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Rick Boyce, Round Rock Image Creators, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

I am now accepting applications for people to join the Celtic Invasion of Isle of Skye hiking trip in 2027 at http://celticinvasion.com/

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Celtic Music Magazine: The Wizard of Donegal Bay

Todd Wiley — Thu, 03 Sep 2026 13:00:01 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

Hello all, it is Todd once again. In this episode we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. A peeler's jacket, a wizard hiding in glass, and a cuckoo singing somewhere in May. This week runs from a French village to Donegal Bay, from the heart of Buffalo to a lay sung in old Gaelic. Fifteen artists, one hour, and not a dull mile in it. The other podcasts are Erin’s Isle & Celt in a Twist. The articles this week are about road bowling, Margam Park, & Gruffalo books being given to Scottish children. As usual we have a list of new albums released over the past week. The festival we highlight is the Longs Peak Scottish Irish Highland Festival taking place September 11 – 13, 2026 in Estes Park, CO. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #773: THE WIZARD OF DONEGAL BAY

Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson, Boxing Robin, Almost Seamus, Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal, Brian Quigley, Brobdingnagian Bards, Hildaland, The Leftovers, Tara's Folk, Ned Bigham, The Edinburgh Quartet & Màiri Macmillan, The McDades, Irish Millie, River Driver, MacCumhaill and the Gang, Trí

Special thanks to our newest Patron of the Podcast: Katy K

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

CELTIC PODFEST AND ARTS MARKET

The 2026 Celtic PodFest was a tremendous success. Kinnfolk and The Muckers joined me for our first festival at The Lost Druid Brewery in Avondale Estates, Ga. The festival happened because of many of my listeners who pledged at our start-of-the-year Kickstarter. We had a great turnout, but we could’ve done better if we had planned it more than a month out.
There is now a Kickstarter Pre-Launch Page for our Second Celtic PodFest. You’ll find a link in the shownotes. This fundraiser will hopefully allow us to bring a second festival to you.
The Kickstarter will launch in September. Will you help?

JOIN THE CELTIC INVASION OF THE ISLE OF SKYE

Skye is not just one of the most-stunning destinations in Scotland. It is also a hiking Mecca. There are so many great places to head out into the wilderness and experience the incredible wilds of Skye.
In 2027, we're invading Skye with an emphasis on hiking. We'll be out hiking for 2-4 hours a day for at least four days.
Get ready for an exciting adventure filled with exhausting joy.

Learn more about the Celtic Invasion of Skye!

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

Celtic Soull – by Melinda Rockell
OGHAM – by Swan montgomery and Bo Weinberg
In the Blink of an Eye – by Mundi
We Love a Good Shanty! – by Anton A
Untraditional – by The Diddley Idols
Freumhan – by Kenneth Nicolson
Empress of Fire – by Axe & Ale
Skaldesanger – by Merrigan
アラビアンナイト – by Bobby Cole

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

ERIN’S ISLE: MEET THE IRISH WOLFHOUNDS IN DUBLIN

Irish Wolfhounds are a part of ancient Ireland. Know for being huge, fierce in battle, dependable and loyal, when they aren’t hunting they really are gentle giants. Wayne McMahon knows all about them. You see, he owns 17 of the hounds and he brings them in to Dublin for tours at St.Stephen’s Green. They are magnificent! No one misses this crowd as it makes its way around the park.

Listen here

ROAD BOWLING BIDS FOR UNESCO HERITAGE RECOGNITION

ONE of Ireland's oldest traditional sports could soon receive official recognition as part of the nation's living cultural heritage, after the governing body for road bowling called for it to be added to Ireland's UNESCO heritage list.
Ból Chumann na hÉireann believes the centuries-old pastime deserves to sit alongside recognised Irish traditions such as hurling, harping and Uilleann piping.

To read more, go here!

CELT IN A TWIST: SEPTEMBER 1, 2026

Celtic comfort coming home to Celt In A Twist! You’ve Got A Friend in Australia’s Cloverhearts, Boiled In Lead slip in some jigs to start and The Real McKenzies give a surprising Celt Punk history lesson about Shackleton and the polar voyage of The Endurance! Dance, stroll, plug into the perfect soundtrack for your adventure. You might even learn something Celt In A Twist!

Listen to the Show

SPRAWLING WELSH ESTATE WITH GOTHIC CASTLE AND FAIRYTALE VILLAGE IDEAL FOR AN AUTUMN DAY OUT

The weather's turning cooler, the sunset is earlier and some days will be downright soggy, but there's no need to despair as autumn comes closer as sometimes it's a perfect time to visit some of Wales' best castles and walking destinations.

To read more, go here!

THOUSANDS OF SCOTTISH CHILDREN TO RECEIVE FREE GRUFFALO BOOKS

Thousands of children across Scotland are set to receive free books featuring one of the world’s best-loved storybook characters.
Scottish Book Trust is distributing 30,000 copies of The Gruffalo and related titles after receiving a major donation from author Julia Donaldson, illustrator Axel Scheffler and Macmillan Children’s Books.

To read more, go here!

LONGS PEAK SCOTTISH IRISH HIGHLAND FESTIVAL

For half a century, the Rocky Mountains have echoed with the sound of pipes, drums, and Celtic tradition.
In 2026, we invite you to join us for our 50th Anniversary—a landmark celebration of heritage, international performance, and the enduring spirit of the festival.
Experience a weekend filled with world-class music, Highland athletics, cultural traditions, and the unforgettable Estes Park International Tattoo. Explore the exciting new additions featured below, including the Sword Experience, the Hibernian Baker, and our new Ceilidh!
Some of the entertainers will be Swagger, Harp Twins, Sean Heely, Seamus Kennedy, and more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

September 3, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #773: The Wizard of Donegal Bay

Mitchell Petersen — Thu, 03 Sep 2026 11:00:34 +0000

A peeler's jacket, a wizard hiding in glass, and a cuckoo singing somewhere in May. This week runs from a French village to Donegal Bay, from the heart of Buffalo to a lay sung in old Gaelic. Fifteen artists, one hour, and not a dull mile in it. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #773. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson, Boxing Robin, Almost Seamus, Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal, Brian Quigley, Brobdingnagian Bards, Hildaland, The Leftovers, Tara's Folk, Ned Bigham, The Edinburgh Quartet & Màiri Macmillan, The McDades, Irish Millie, River Driver, MacCumhaill and the Gang, Trí

Marc Gunn, Cedar Dobson, Tara's Folk, Hildaland, Brian Quigley, The McDades, Irish Millie, Ned Bigham, Brobdingnagian Bards, Tri

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

0:02 – Intro: Robert Eby

0:18 – Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson – “The Peeler's Jacket / The Duke of Leinster” from Once Through the Hall

2:43 – WELCOME

5:09 – Boxing Robin – “Derriere Chez Nous / Chypre / Congo de Captieux” from Land of the

Noon – Day Moon

(pronunciation: deh – ree – EHR shay NOO / SHEEP – ruh / KOHN – goh duh kap – SYUH)

8:30 – Almost Seamus – “Danny Boy” from Almost Seamus

12:49 – Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal – “Sí Bheag, Sí Mhór” from From Kolkata to Dublin

(pronunciation: SHEE – vig, SHEE – vore; often anglicized “Sheebeg, Sheemore”)

15:21 – Brian Quigley – “Galway Bay” from Joys, Fears, Laughter, and Tears

19:31 – FEEDBACK

22:21 – Brobdingnagian Bards – “Paddy McCollough” from Songs of Ireland

25:46 – Hildaland – “The Brushy Fork Of John's Creek” from Fiddle Tunes – EP

28:53 – The Leftovers – “The Old Man” from Heart of Buffalo

33:10 – Tara's Folk – “Lockdown” from remember how we fall

36:35 – Ned Bigham, The Edinburgh Quartet & Màiri Macmillan – “Laoidh Dhiarmaid (the Lay of Diarmaid)” from The Heroic Ballads – Laoidhean nan Gaisgeach – EP

(pronunciation: LOY YEER – mij)

42:19 – THANKS

44:40 – The McDades – “Gardener's Child” from Thread The Light

48:41 – Irish Millie – “End Is Due” from Can You See Me?

52:32 – Blaggards “Leaving of Liverpool” from Live in Texas

55:59 – MacCumhaill and the Gang – “Wizard in Glass” from 2

58:17 – CLOSING

59:16 – Trí – “Fiddle without a bow” from The cuckoo sings in May

1:02:35 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember: clean energy is good news.

Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history.

That means lower bills for families like yours.

It means cleaner air in the towns we love.

You can be part of it. Ask your energy provider about renewable options today.

Every small step counts. A brighter future is ours to build, together.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

CELTIC PODFEST AND ARTS MARKET

There is now a Kickstarter Pre – Launch Page for our Second Celtic PodFest. You’ll find a link in the shownotes. This fundraiser will hopefully allow us to bring a second festival to you.

The Kickstarter will launch in September. Will you help?

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

Here's where your support goes. Every month, your patronage buys the music you hear on this show, straight from the independent artists who made it. It keeps our audio engineer polishing every episode until it shines. It pays the server bills that carry the podcast to listeners in every corner of the world.

None of it happens without you. So thank you. As a patron, you get episodes free of ads, music – only editions of the show for when you just want the tunes, and a vote in the Celtic Top 20 that shapes what everyone hears. Small thanks for keeping this whole thing afloat.

Want to be part of it? Come find your people at SongHenge.com.

Special thanks to our newest Patron of the Podcast: Katy K

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

I am now accepting applications for people to join the Celtic Invasion of Isle of Skye hiking trip in 2027 at http://celticinvasion.com/

CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC

The podcast is now being funded by you. Want Christmas music by Celtic musicians. Make a pledge.

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Troy of The Secret Commonwealth emailed a sad follow up back in March to the news about his friend who was illegally held in ICE custody: “Marc, thank you so much for sharing the fundraiser for my friend on your new episode.

It is with profoundly heavy heart that I have to tell you that my friend died last Sunday of a heart attack. He had been moved to a hospital in Mississippi and apparently suffered two successive attacks. His body is being returned now.

To say we are devastated and infuriated would be inadequate to describe our state of being. We had just been sending his lawyers important records and documents that we felt, along with his obvious serious health conditions, had a very good chance of securing his release. We'll never know now if that would have proven to be true, but we just needed him to endure a little while longer, which he ultimately could not. He died one month short of a year since being detained by ICE.

I have not yet publicly announced this in an update to our fundraiser because, frankly, it's still too fresh and painful to address. But any proceeds we've made will obviously now be put toward the cost of his funeral service.

Sorry to impart this bad news, but I mostly wanted to express my gratitude to you for your kind support on behalf of Pejman's family, my girlfriend (who was his dearest friend in the world and who spearheaded this fight for his freedom) and for me.

Best to you,”

Celtic Music Magazine: The Watchman’s Morning Light

Todd Wiley — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 13:00:40 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

It is Todd once again. From the Muskerry Gaeltacht to Glengarry County, this show gathers fiddle tunes, folk punk, and pub songs into a single hour. We meet the elder lass, chase a squirrel and a flogging reel, and raise a parting glass on the way home. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #772. The other podcast I bring to you The Scottish History Podcast & Copperplate Time. In addition to our articles for the week we also have information on supporting our second Celtic Podfest and the Celtic Invasion of the Isle of Skye. The afore mentioned articles are about Dermot O’Leary running a half marathon, the new sauna at Gleneagles, and Derry. In addition, we have a list of new albums. The Featured festival is the 52nd Virginia Scottish Games taking place September 5 & 6 at Great Meadow in The Plains, VA. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #772: THE WATCHMAN'S MORNING LIGHT

Hildaland, The McDades, Margaret Davis, Alexis Chartrand & Nicolas Babineau, Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca, Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald, Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer, Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal, Blackwillow Starling, Leevy, Bang on the Ear, Sean Griffin, Release the Craicen

Here’s a special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Fuzzy, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Rick Boyce, Round Rock Image Creators, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

CELTIC PODFEST AND ARTS MARKET

The 2026 Celtic PodFest was a tremendous success. Kinnfolk and The Muckers joined me for our first festival at The Lost Druid Brewery in Avondale Estates, Ga. The festival happened because of many of my listeners who pledged at our start-of-the-year Kickstarter. We had a great turnout, but we could’ve done better if we had planned it more than a month out.
There is now a Kickstarter Pre-Launch Page for our Second Celtic PodFest. You’ll find a link in the shownotes. This fundraiser will hopefully allow us to bring a second festival to you.
The Kickstarter will launch in September. Will you help?

JOIN THE CELTIC INVASION OF THE ISLE OF SKYE

Skye is not just one of the most-stunning destinations in Scotland. It is also a hiking Mecca. There are so many great places to head out into the wilderness and experience the incredible wilds of Skye.
In 2027, we're invading Skye with an emphasis on hiking. We'll be out hiking for 2-4 hours a day for at least four days.
Get ready for an exciting adventure filled with exhausting joy.

Learn more about the Celtic Invasion of Skye!

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

The Spirits and The Sea – by The Elders
Celtic Fantasy: Twilight from the Observation Deck – by YUNOKIA
A Storybook Story – by Crown of Clover
Demat – by Demat
Songs of Medieval Castle for Gothic Lute, Folk Flute and Celtic Violin – by Andrei Krylov
Sacred Chants – by Tal Barr
3 decades of unpublished stuff part 3 – by The Black Tartan Clan
3 decades of unpublished stuff part 4 – by The Black Tartan Clan
REMEMBER THE HEROS (AND ONE BAD VILLAIN – by Swan Montgomery

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

THE SCOTTISH HISTORY PODCAST: 131 – TWISH – THE CHASEABOUT RAID & THE TRIAL OF DEACON BRODIE

This week in Scottish History –
The beginning of the “Chaseabout Raid”, where Mary, Queen of Scots would chase her half-brother, the Earl of Moray around Scotland looking for a fight – but did they meet on the battlefield?
The beginning of the trial of Deacon Willam Brodie, the man it is said to have been the “real” Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.

Listen here

Dermot O’Leary Will Run Half Marathon To Support London’s Irish Community

TELEVISION favourite Dermot O’Leary is gearing up to run a half marathon for a charity which supports the Irish community across London.
The BBC Radio 2 and This Morning presenter, whose parents hail from Co. Wexford, will run the Royal Parks Half Marathon for the London Irish Centre (LIC) in October.
“I’m thrilled to be taking on the Royal Parks Half Marathon this October for the London Irish Centre,” he said today.

To read more, go here!

COPPERPLATE TIME 547

BOTHY BAND, MATT MOLLOY & TOMMY PEOPLES, MOVING CLOUD, KEVIN BURKE, GARADICE, MICK MULVEY & SHANE MEEHAN, ANGELINA CARBERRY & DAN BROUDER, NIAMH De BÚRCA, KEVIN CRAWFORD & CILLIAN VALLELY, EILIS KENNEDY, DAVE SWARBRICK, NIAMH Ní CHARRA, CHRISTY MOORE, JEZ LOWE & THE BAD PENNIES, PATRICK STREET, BOTHY BAND

Listen to the Show

I TRIED THE SERENE AND RESTORATIVE NEW WILD SAUNA AT SCOTLAND'S BEST HOTEL

I’ve tried loads of Scotland’s wild saunas, from one in Arran to another at the more incongruous location of Leith Links.
However, I should’ve realised that the newest addition, from five-star hotel Gleneagles, would be no ordinary example…

To read more, go here!

DERRY WITH A STORY TO TELL

DERRY, perched at the top of the country, overlooking Lough Foyle which opens onto the Atlantic, boasts a climate that could fairly be described as bracing.
With a sky that usually means mischief, the wind whips off the Atlantic like a grudge. It has a constant presence here in Derry – indeed there’s a rumour that one day the wind stopped blowing and everybody fell over.

To read more, go here!

52ND VIRGINIA SCOTTISH GAMES

The 52nd Virginia Scottish Games are coming Labor Day Weekend — September 5 & 6, 2026 — and it's going to be an absolute braw time! Highland dancing, heavy athletics, bagpipes, whisky tastings, Scottish dogs, sheepherding demos, and SO much more. Grab your tickets before they're gone!
Some of the entertainers you can see are Seven Nations, Seán Heely Celtic Band, Tinsmith, and more.

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

August 20, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #772: The Watchman’s Morning Light

Mitchell Petersen — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 11:00:11 +0000

From the Muskerry Gaeltacht to Glengarry County, this show gathers fiddle tunes, folk punk, and pub songs into a single hour. We meet the elder lass, chase a squirrel and a flogging reel, and raise a parting glass on the way home. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #772. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Hildaland, The McDades, Margaret Davis, Alexis Chartrand & Nicolas Babineau, Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca, Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald, Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer, Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal, Blackwillow Starling, Leevy, Bang on the Ear, Sean Griffin, Release the Craicen

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

0:02 – Intro: Na Geocaigh

0:10 – Hildaland “The Watchman's Polka (feat. Ethan Setiawan & Louise Bichan)” from Fiddle Tunes (feat. Ethan Setiawan & Louise Bichan) – EP

3:32 – WELCOME

4:58 – Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal “The Flogging Reel” from From Kolkata to Dublin

7:24 – Margaret Davis “Jock Stewart” from The Elder Lass

10:19 – Alexis Chartrand & Nicolas Babineau “La grondeuse” from Écoutez tous

13:14 – Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca “Onder de Linde (Unter den Linden)” from Fabula Feminae – EP

18:01 – FEEDBACK

22:23 – Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald “An Ceann Caorach (The Sheep's Head)” from Christina

“An Ceann Caorach (The Sheep's Head)” (Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald) – un KYOWN KOO – ruch, with the “ch” soft like the ch in “loch.” Audio for “ceann”: forvo.com/word/ceann/

25:24 – Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer “The Squirrel” from Come Bring With A Noise

30:03 – Blackwillow Starling “Lughnassadh Morning” from Thornaeppel

35:19 – THANKS

37:37 – Leevy “Where Have You Been” from Baile Mhúirne or the Soldiers March the Paps of Anú Baile Mhúirne (roughly BAL – yuh VOOR – nyuh, anglicized as Ballyvourney) and the Paps of Anú (Anú = uh – NOO).

44:33 – The McDades “Dance Around the Spinning Wheel” from Thread The Light

48:47 – Bang on the Ear “My Bonnie Lassie” from Highland Road

51:48 – Sean Griffin “Gypsy Girl” from People Are Mad

56:04 – CLOSING

56:32 – Release the Craicen “The Parting Glass” from Live! Songs on a Boat

1:00:35 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember: clean energy is good news.

Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history.

That means lower bills for families like yours.

It means cleaner air in the towns we love.

You can be part of it. Ask your energy provider about renewable options today.

Every small step counts. A brighter future is ours to build, together.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

A big Celtic thank you to the Patrons of the Podcast. Your support is what actually keeps this show alive. It pays our graphic designer and our audio engineer. It buys music from the artists you hear every week. And it covers the server costs that carry the show around the world. You make all of it possible.

This week I want to shine a light on one perk in particular: your vote. Patrons help choose the Celtic Top 20 and shape the Best Celtic Music of 2026. You can also get every episode early, plus music – only editions for when you want the tunes and none of my chatter.

If that sounds like your kind of community, come find us at SongHenge.com. There's a seat at the table with your name on it.

Here’s a special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Fuzzy, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Rick Boyce, Round Rock Image Creators, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

I am now accepting applications for people to join the Celtic Invasion of Isle of Skye hiking trip in 2027 at http://celticinvasion.com/

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Jeff Suggs emailed about how to shuffle music on Android: “Mark, I use the free version of Shuttle. It allows shuffling by album or by song. Keep up the good work on the Podcast”

Alexander Randall 5th emailed: “Good morning in balmy Great Britain. Ah ha! The music only is Thursday. Thank you for that. I’ll ignore what arrives early and capture the tunes on Thursday.

I work with words and the talk version interrupts my train of thought. I usually edit the show in my audio editor and take out the songs with singers. I like that music but i cant work with singing… Over time I mash up a dozen of your shows, (instrumental music only and then let that run for hours.

The music only version is just that much less editing to get to my goal.

Keep it up.

I love the show

I do listen to the word version sometimes just to hear if I made the comments section.”

Jim emailed back in February: “Dear Marc Gunn

I applaud your response to last week’s challenging criticism and offer my financial support (finally) for the podcast.

You will not be getting a photo showing what I’m doing while listening to the podcast because it’s my companion during house work.

As they say on Firefly, “See you in the verse”.

PS The Wicked Tinker’s “Aiken Drum” (Big Bottle of Bad Ideas) is not a contemporary rebel song, but may help illustrate your point.”

Celtic Music Magazine: Way Stations for Poets and Story Tellers

Todd Wiley — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 13:00:21 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

Hello faithful readers it is Todd once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish and Celtic Music Podcast. Where we gather a full hour of independent Celtic music spanning Ireland, Scotland, Brittany, and North America. Highlights include a McDades reel set, a Dervish collaboration with Glen Hansard, and a haunting Gaelic harp piece from Chloe Matharu to close. New voices meet familiar favourites across songs of home, loss, and the road. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #771. The other highlighted podcasts are In Tune with Tradition & Folk on Foot. We also feature our forthcoming Celtic Invasion Tour to the Isle of Skye. The other articles are about Limerick & the Edinburgh festival. The festival spotlight shines bright on the Peoria Irish Fest. It takes place August 28 – 30, 2026 at Riverfront Park in Peoria, IL. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #771: WAY STATIONS FOR POETS AND STORY TELLERS

Avourneen, The McDades, Tulua, Trouz Bras, Maggie MacInnes, Dervish, Glen Hansard, Jim Moray, Slugger’s Rule, Leevy, Sandra Sparks, Michael Robbins, Mànran, Ruairidh Gray, Some One’s Sons, Celtic Cross, Chloe Matharu

Here’s a special thanks to our three new patrons this month: Memory Harman, Allyson Woodard, and Kkleparek

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

Ginnungagap – by Valkruna
A Handful of Songs – by Gloucestershire Traveller Singers
Another Handful of Songs – by Gloucestershire Traveller Singers
Rainfall on the Wizard's Tower – by Strings & Swords
Fantasy Songs of the Rugged Coast for Medieval Lute, Celtic Guitar & Folk Flute – by Andrei Krylov
For the Love of Trees – by Clíodhna Ní Aodáin
Patouche Collective – by Patouche Collective

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

IN TUNE WITH TRADITION – PERSPECTIVES ON SESSION ETIQUETTE IN IRISH TRADITIONAL MUSIC : MUSIC IS A BIOLOGICAL NECESSITY

This episode explores how music can regulate the nervous system, build belonging, and help people feel safe in communal playing spaces. Tara Connaghan is joined by Louise Kelly, a consultant music therapist from the North of Ireland, TEDx speaker, and co-founder of Resilient Rhythms, whose perspective connects traditional music with anxiety, confidence, and connection.
We discuss why some players sit on the periphery, why others play loudly or keep leaving and returning, and how those behaviours can be understood through fight, flight, freeze, and fawn responses rather than judgment.

Listen here

JOIN THE CELTIC INVASION OF THE ISLE OF SKYE

Skye is not just one of the most-stunning destinations in Scotland. It is also a hiking Mecca. There are so many great places to head out into the wilderness and experience the incredible wilds of Skye.
In 2027, we're invading Skye with an emphasis on hiking. We'll be out hiking for 2-4 hours a day for at least four days.
Get ready for an exciting adventure filled with exhausting joy.

Learn more about the Celtic Invasion of Skye!

FOLK ON FOOT: JENN BUTTERWORTH AT WHITHORN

Come for a wild and windy walk in the Scottish borders with the brilliant guitarist Jenn Butterworth. We visit the remote farmhouse where she grew up, the pub where she worked as a teenager, the otter statue commemorating Gavin Maxwell and the ancient archaeological site which dates back to 397 AD and the founding of Scotland’s earliest Christian community. There’s time for plenty of music – both traditional and original.

Listen to the Show

LIMERICK FOR POETRY, PUBS AND HISTORY

A LETTER appeared once in the Irish Times from a gentleman in Dublin.
He wrote:
“I have just returned from a day trip to Limerick. Within five minutes of my arrival in the city centre two wild dogs ran by me and a drunken gentleman shouting obscenities in a butcher’s window collapsed, shattering the shop’s window.
I was impressed by the improvement since the last time I was there,
Yours etc, Adrian Weckler, Glasnevin”
Yes, Limerick does suffer from something of an image problem.

To read more, go here!

COUNTRY DIARY: DOWN THE ROAD FROM THE EDINBURGH FRINGE … A TRUE LOCAL TRADITION OF COSTUME AND WHISKY

While the Edinburgh festival grabs the headlines, just 10 miles away, one of Scotland’s most remarkable traditions takes place every August – the Burryman procession.
In this, part of the Ferry Fair, a local volunteer is covered in thousands of hooked burdock seedheads, which are attached in dense patches like Velcro. He spends up to 10 hours perambulating a seven-mile route around town, accompanied by two attendants, pausing at some 20 stops to collect charitable donations and accepting a libation of unmeasured whisky through a straw. This year’s procession is especially significant, as the identity of the Burryman is changing.

To read more, go here!

PEORIA IRISH FEST

Failte (Welcome)
It’s all about the music. Yes, and the dance. And the culture. But first and foremost, our event is a music festival.
Top groups from around the world join outstanding regional acts and up-and-coming groups to thrill our guests. And local favorites deliver knockout performances to their rabid followers, gaining new fans every time.
Mix in an idyllic riverside venue, loads of entertainment options for the whole family, and enough food and drink to satisfy an army, and it’s no wonder the Peoria Irish Fest has been going strong for 40+ years!
Some of the musicians appearing are Eileen Ivers, Screaming Orphans, Socks in the Frying Pan, The Andrew Finn Magill Trio, Sorcha, Bogside Zukes, Skibbereen, and many, many more!!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

August 20, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #771: Way Stations for Poets and Story Tellers

Mitchell Petersen — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 11:00:27 +0000

Way stations and burning gorse, motor cars and the islands of Loch Maree. Episode 771 gathers a full hour of independent Celtic music spanning Ireland, Scotland, Brittany, and North America. Highlights include a McDades reel set, a Dervish collaboration with Glen Hansard, and a haunting Gaelic harp piece from Chloe Matharu to close. New voices meet familiar favourites across songs of home, loss, and the road. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #771. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Avourneen, The McDades, Tulua, Trouz Bras, Maggie MacInnes, Dervish, Glen Hansard, Jim Moray, Slugger’s Rule, Leevy, Sandra Sparks, Michael Robbins, Mànran, Ruairidh Gray, Some One’s Sons, Celtic Cross, Chloe Matharu

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

0:02 – Intro: Luke Shosol

0:08 – Avourneen – “Far From Home South Shore” from Way Stations

3:29 – WELCOME

4:38 – The McDades – “Miri’s Reel/The Foolie/The Onlies’ Reel” from Thread The Light

10:33 – Tulua – “Dunlavin Green (Song)” from In The Snug

14:42 – Trouz Bras – “Ker Breizh” from Edge of the Spiral: Celtic Music of Brittany

18:20 – Maggie MacInnes – “Hì iùraibh i hoireann hoireann” from Uiseagan Bharraigh

24:02 – FEEDBACK

26:49 – Dervish featuring Glen Hansard – “Leave A Light On” from The Great Irish Songbook Vol 2: Poets & Storytellers

30:40 – Jim Moray – “Train On The Island” from Gallants

34:44 – Slugger’s Rule – “Johnston’s Motor Car” from Clusterfolk

36:35 – Leevy – “Sadhbh and the Burning Gorse” from Baile Mhúirne or the Soldiers March the Paps of Anú

40:04 – THANKS

43:02 – Sandra Sparks – Michael Robbins of The BorderCollies – “Temple Bar”

47:10 – Mànran (feat. Ruairidh Gray) – “Loch Maree Islands”

50:10 – Some One’s Sons – “The Chance to Feel Alive” from The Boom is Back

53:17 – Celtic Cross – “Toss It Back”

56:45 – CLOSING

57:29 – Chloe Matharu – “Òran a’ Ghearraidh Chruaidh”

1:01:46 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember this. Our Celtic ancestors lived close to the land.

They cared for it and passed it on. We can do the same today.

Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. Clean energy keeps that tradition alive.

Choose renewable power for your home. A well – tended world is a gift worth giving.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

A huge Celtic thank you to the Patrons of the Podcast. You are the reason this show comes out every single week. Your generosity keeps the music playing, pays for the audio engineering that makes each episode sound great, and puts independent Celtic artists in front of thousands of new ears.

Being a patron comes with real perks. You get early access to episodes before anyone else. You get music – only versions of the show with none of the chit chat. You get free music downloads, exclusive behind the scenes content, and a vote in the Celtic Top 20 that shapes what we all hear. Most of all, you get to be part of a warm, welcoming community of people who love this music as much as you do.

If you have been thinking about joining us, there has never been a better time. Come see what the community is all about at SongHenge.com. Sláinte!

Here’s a special thanks to our three new patrons this month: Memory Harman, Allyson Woodard, and Kkleparek

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Crystel y messaged on Patreon: “Hello again! I have continued to research keening and found this artist who I hadn't heard of before and was curious if you had ever come across her. I read that she died by suicide in the early 20 – teens but her son finished her last album called Biolingua and the song “Grief” takes my breath away. Her name is Eithne Ní Uallacháin and I found a couple of her albums on Apple Music. There is magic in her voice and lyrics; I'm not sure if there is a way to share her songs on the podcast but I thought you might enjoy her music regardless – I certainly do!

I hope you're well and thank you for all that you do to keep Celtic music and culture accessible and thriving! It means more to me than I can even put into words, especially lately.

Oh and to tie her music back to keening, someone in the UK did a podcast episode about her and discussed the song “Grief” as a possible iteration of modern keening :)”

Shel O’Toole Messaged on Patreon: “I enjoyed the show today Marc. I've been developing an assessment tool for my work and really struggling with it but I put the podcast this morning and I finally got it completed. Music helped clear my head and also helped me focus on the task”

Celtic Music Magazine: Dogwood King of Connemara

Todd Wiley — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 16:00:47 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

Intrepid readers it is Todd once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast where the Cuckoo sings in May and the King of the Dogwoods reigns over an hour built from polkas, ballads, and Gaelic song. This episode moves between Ireland, Scotland, and the wider Celtic diaspora, featuring both first – time voices on the show and beloved regulars who have shaped its sound for years. The other podcasts we showcase are the Scottish History Podcast & Copperplate Time. We have a new list of Celtic albums. The articles featured are about the contract to build a new city library in Dublin, Scots contending with clouds during the solar eclipse, & Cornwall coming together for a communal during the eclipse. The highlighted festival is Chicago Gaelic Park’s Irish Fest taking place August 21 – 23, 2026 at Chicago Gaelic Park in Oak Forest, Il. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #770: DOGWOOD KING OF CONNEMARA

Trí, Celtic Underground, Blackwillow Starling, Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson, Irish Millie, The Bilge Pumps, Callan, Boiled In Lead, Mairi McGillivray, Hadrian's Wall, Colin Steele, Sean Griffin, The Tan and Sober Gentlemen, John Doyle

A huge Celtic thank you to the Patrons of the Podcast.

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

THE HIGH MAN REVISTED – by SWAN MONTGOMERY
Aly Bain & Young Champions – by Aly Bain & Young Champions
Sampler – by Sophie Brown and Friends
Breath Of The Infinite – by Anu
Celtic Fantasy: Resonance of the Twilight Guardianv – by YUNOKIA
If It Was All a Dream -by Kye Goski
Woodland Festival – by Celtic Garden
The Spirits and the Sea – by The Elders

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

SCOTTISH HISTORY PODCAST 127 – ANDREW CARNEGIE & JOHN LOGIE BAIRD

This week in Scottish History
We celebrate the births of 2 fascinating men.

Listen here

PURCELL CONSTRUCTION APPOINTED TO BUILD NEW CITY LIBRARY IN DUBLIN

PURCELL CONSTRUCTION has won the contract to build a new city library in the heart of Dublin.
The Irish firm has been confirmed as main contractor for Phase 1 of the Parnell Square Cultural Quarter project, with construction due to begin in the weeks ahead…

To read more, go here!

COPPERPLATE TIME 545

BOTHY BAND, JOHN REGAN & PADDY GLACKIN, BRIAN CONWAY, PADDY KEENAN, CHRISTY O’LEARY & BERT DEIVERT, JOHNNY CONNOLLY, GERRY HARRINGTON, ROBBIE McMAHON, JOE COOLEY & JOE LEARY, KEVIN ROWSOME, MARCAS O’MURCHU & OISIN MacDIARMADA, LUNASA, SANDY DENNY, MICHELLE MULCAHY, KATE & ANNA McGarrigle, JOHN RENBOURN, FRASER FIFIELD, LIAM O’FLYNN, FAIRPORT CONVENTION, BOTHY BAND

Listen to the Show

SCOTS CONTEND WITH CLOUDS TO CATCH GLIMPSE OF RARE SOLAR ECLIPSE

Scots across the country have come out in the hope of witnessing a once-in-a-generation solar eclipse – but many were left disappointed when it was covered by a blanket of cloud.
More than 90 per cent of the sun was obscured by the Moon between about 6pm and 8.15pm on August 12, the most it has been blocked above UK skies since the total eclipse in 1999.

To read more, go here!

‘A MAGICAL EERINESS’: CORNWALL COMES TOGETHER FOR COMMUNAL MOMENT DURING SOLAR ECLIPSE

At 6pm the beach and village began to empty, and those in the know headed up the hill towards the old granite coastguard station on the headland.
“This is the best spot,” said Sennen Cove resident Lisa Redfern, who had built a pinhole camera for the eclipse out of an old Ryvita Thins box.
As the moon began to hide the sun and Redfern – just about – got her makeshift device to work, she felt a little emotional.

To read more, go here!

CHICAGO GAELIC PARK’S IRISH FEST

Get ready for a euphoric journey to the Emerald Isle at Chicago Gaelic Park’s Irish Fest, where the air will be filled with the enchanting tunes of Celtic music and the rhythm of dancing feet. This weekend-long extravaganza is lined up with an unprecedented ensemble of Irish bands, dance schools, and artists who will bring the true essence of Irish culture to the forefront.
Some of the entrainers you can see are Billow Wood, Cailíní Lua, Dennis Doyle, The Drowsy Lads, George Murphy & Friends, JigJam, Kieran Byrne, Kilmaine Saints, One for the Ditch, Socks in the Frying Pan, Waxie Dargles, & more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

August 13, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #770: Dogwood King of Connemara

Mitchell Petersen — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 11:00:06 +0000

The Cuckoo sings in May and the King of the Dogwoods reigns over an hour built from polkas, ballads, and Gaelic song. This episode moves between Ireland, Scotland, and the wider Celtic diaspora, featuring both first – time voices on the show and beloved regulars who have shaped its sound for years. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #770. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Trí, Celtic Underground, Blackwillow Starling, Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson, Irish Millie, The Bilge Pumps, Callan, Boiled In Lead, Mairi McGillivray, Hadrian's Wall, Colin Steele, Sean Griffin, The Tan and Sober Gentlemen, John Doyle

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

0:02 – Intro: Tom Field

0:10 – Trí “The Manchester / The Old Bush / The Banks of the Ilen” from The Cuckoo Sings in May

3:31 – WELCOME

5:12 – Celtic Underground “John Ryan's Polka / Hills of Connemara” from You Can Always Go Home

8:52 – Blackwillow Starling “Guardian of the Grove” from Thornaeppel

11:36 – Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson “The Peeler's Jacket / The Duke of Leinster” from Once Through the Hall

14:01 – Irish Millie “CINEMA” from Can You See Me?

17:34 – FEEDBACK

19:14 – The Bilge Pumps “Roll the Old Chariot Along” from Greatest Hits, Vols I – VII

21:58 – Callan “Amazing Grace” from Callan Song Book

25:24 – Boiled In Lead “The King of the Dogwoods” from King of the Dogwoods

28:47 – Mairi McGillivray “‘S Mòr mo Chùram” from Mo Thìr

31:46 – THANKS

33:41 – Hadrian's Wall “Check in with Toronto” from Play Us a Tune

36:43 – Colin Steele “Benromach” from Stramash II

43:20 – Sean Griffin “JFK” from People Are Mad

47:51 – The Tan and Sober Gentlemen “Rabbit” from Veracity

51:05 – CLOSING

51:56 – John Doyle “An Irishman's Epistle To The People Of America” from Free by Nature: Songs of the Irish in the American Revolution

56:50 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember: the sun and the wind never send you a fuel bill.

Last year, solar and wind grew fast enough to cover all of the world's new electricity demand, and they're still the cheapest new power ever built. Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history, and their costs keep falling while fossil fuel prices swing with every crisis.

Choose clean energy, and ask your leaders to do the same. Clean energy means lower costs, more freedom, and a planet that can actually breathe.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

If you have been thinking about joining us, there has never been a better time. Come see what the community is all about at SongHenge.com. Sláinte!

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Gwênlyn Glusman emailed: “Hi Marc,

Since you're planning the trip to Galicia, I thought you might be interested in episode #128 of the “Gaeilge Weekly” podcast – about Galicia, of course! It came out yesterday.

Note that each episode of the podcast comes in three versions: the “gnáthleagan” (standard) fully in Irish, the “níos simplí” (simpler) version, and the “i bhfad níos simplí” (even simpler) version. The simpler versions are slower and mix Irish and English.

Slán,

– – Gwênlyn (she/her)”

Celtic Music Magazine: Celtic Rover on These Waters

Todd Wiley — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 13:00:44 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

It is Todd once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other podcast featured are The Irish Pagen School Podcast & Celt in a Twist. We have included more new album releases. The articles this week are about Star Wars bung dubbed into Welsh, the economic boost for Northern Ireland from hosting the Fleadh, & a journey of recreation on a replica of a 10th century boat. The festival spotlight shines on the Milwaukee Irish Fest talking place August 13 – 16 at Henry Maier Festival Park in Milwaukee, WI. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #769: CELTIC ROVER ON THESE WATERS

Jim Moray, Seán Heely, Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald, Avourneen, Maggie MacInnes, Slugger's Rule, Nathan Gourley, Joey Abarta, and Owen Marshall, Skara Brae, Natalie Padilla, Kevin Meehan, Brad Tuck, Drumspyder, Highlander Celtic Rock Band Australia, MacCumhaill and the Gang

A huge Celtic thank you to every patron of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. You are the reason this show stays free, week after week, year after year. Your support keeps independent Celtic musicians in the spotlight and keeps this whole community thriving.

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

Celtandes – by The Lady Victoria
Live At Derby Irish Center – by Kenn Gordon & 1916
Argyle Street – by Tapper Harvie
Celtic Fantasy: Haven of the Honeyed Light – by YUNOKIA
Wilder Rose – by Yessica Woahneil
Turn the Tide – by Mystic River

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

THE IRISH PAGAN SCHOOL PODCAST: READING THE CAULDRON OF POESY

The Cauldron of Poesy is one of the most powerful and misunderstood texts in Irish spiritual tradition. In this video, Jon O’Sullivan of the Irish Pagan School reads the full translated poem and offers grounded insight into its meaning. Is it really about mystical energy centres – or something much deeper? Learn how this ancient wisdom speaks to growth, knowledge, and becoming your best self through sorrow and joy.
Includes full reading from the Liam Breatnach translation (Ériu, Vol. 32, 1981), and a practical interpretation rooted in native Irish Pagan practice.

Listen here

STAR WARS DUBBED IN WELSH FOR THE FIRST TIME TO CELEBRATE LANDMARK ANNIVERSARY

Star Wars is to be dubbed into Welsh for the first time as the classic film prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary next year.
Welsh language broadcaster S4C and Creative Wales announced the project, in partnership with Lucasfilm and Disney, at the National Eisteddfod on Tuesday.
The Welsh language version of Episode IV – A New Hope will broadcast on S4C and its platforms from Christmas Day…

To read more, go here!

CELT IN A TWIST: AUGUST 4 2026

Small pipes, Border pipes, Uilleann pipes, Northumbrian, Galician and of course, Highland pipes. Smoke 'em if you got 'em! This hour has plenty o' pipes and fiddles, banjos and some spicy zydeco accordion. Homegrown Celtic too from Haggis X-1, The Mahones and The McDades.Come get your weekly hit of Celtivity with Celt In A Twist!

Listen to the Show

FLEADH SET TO BRING £52M ECONOMIC BOOST TO NORTHERN IRELAND

HOSTING the 2026 Fleadh is expected to bring an economic boost of £52m to Northern Ireland.
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is underway in Belfast this week, with the city hosting the annual celebration of Irish music and culture for the first time.
The event, which runs from August 2 – 9, will draw hundreds of thousands of visitors to the city over the coming days.
It will also deliver “significant economic, cultural and tourism benefits across the North”, Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said.

To read more, go here!

THE 10TH CENTURY CELTIC VOYAGE TO THE ISLE OF MAN

People in Castletown have had a glimpse of life a thousand years ago after a 10th Century replica boat visited the Isle of Man's ancient capital.
The 12m (39ft) vessel is predominantly made of leather and is named after Saint Brioc, who travelled from Aberystwyth to Brittany in medieval times.
The 12-strong Breton crew, and a dog, are visiting Celtic nations on their epic journey towards the North Sea.

To read more, go here!

MILWAUKEE IRISH FEST

Each year, they depart from Ireland and lands beyond, some crossing the North Atlantic to American coastlines, some venturing even further. Colorful and charming, they travel in groups and as families, carrying a natural sense of return as they reach their destination.
We’re speaking of puffins, of course, but the very same could be said of those who make the journey to Milwaukee Irish Fest.
No matter where you’ve traveled from, sé do bheatha ‘bhaile (shay doh vaha wallya). Welcome home.
Entertainers you can see are Acme Fiddling Company, Ally the Piper, Atlantic Wave, Billow Wood, Blackthorn Folly, Caoimhe Ní Mhaolagáin, Ceol Cairde, Derek Byrne and Paddygrass, Eileen Ivers, Gaelic Storm, Hearthfire, Ogham, O'Darby, The Drowsy Lads, and many more!!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

August 6, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #769: Celtic Rover on These Waters

Mitchell Petersen — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 11:00:05 +0000

This week's journey rambles from an English rover to a horned god of the old woods, then across the black river to a Barra Gaelic song carried down through generations. Fourteen tracks of fiddle, whistle, pipes, and rowdy pub harmony travel from Boston to Newfoundland to the shores of Australia. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #768. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Jim Moray, Seán Heely, Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald, Avourneen, Maggie MacInnes, Slugger's Rule, Nathan Gourley, Joey Abarta, and Owen Marshall, Skara Brae, Natalie Padilla, Kevin Meehan, Brad Tuck, Drumspyder, Highlander Celtic Rock Band Australia, MacCumhaill and the Gang

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

0:02 – Intro: Ken Spencer

0:14 – Jim Moray “Spencer The Rover” from Gallants

4:25 – WELCOME

6:02 – Seán Heely “Cernunnos : An Dia Adharcach (The Horned God)” from Dramagical

15:02 – Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald “Ar Baile (Our Village)” from Christina

19:48 – Avourneen “Cunner Point Across the Black River” from Way Stations

24:27 – Maggie MacInnes “Nì Mhic Ailein, na bì' n èud rium” from Uiseagan Bharraigh

28:32 – FEEDBACK

29:28 – Slugger's Rule “Juice of the Barley” from Clusterfolk

32:22 – Nathan Gourley, Joey Abarta, and Owen Marshall “The Primrose Road / The Tramp / Martin Wynne's” from Copley Street 2

35:51 – Skara Brae “Craic Addict” from The Mists of Time

39:08 – Natalie Padilla “Seedskadee” from Paths and Places

42:15 – THANKS

43:44 – Kevin Meehan “The Glasgow Set” from Spanish Point

49:17 – Brad Tuck “I've Been Told” from On These Waters

53:11 – Drumspyder “The Dunmore Lasses” from Kenning

57:13 – Highlander Celtic Rock Band Australia “Reel Set” from Start the Fire

1:00:11 – CLOSING

1:01:10 – MacCumhaill and the Gang “Dreams of Nevermore” from 2

1:04:43 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember: the sun and the wind never send you a fuel bill.

Choose clean energy, and ask your leaders to do the same. Clean energy means lower costs, more freedom, and a planet that can actually breathe.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories, where I share stories behind my songs and those of other Celtic and folk musicians.

As with all things, it is important to support our community, whether that is local or in a small niche we love like “Celtic music”. Skip the big corporate businesses and bands. Instead, spend your money where it will make a difference. You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

A huge Celtic thank you to every patron of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. You are the reason this show stays free, week after week, year after year. Your support keeps independent Celtic musicians in the spotlight and keeps this whole community thriving.

Being a patron means more than helping the music along. You get the episodes early and ad – free. You get exclusive songs, behind – the – scenes stories, and a warm circle of fellow Celtic music lovers who show up every single week. You help decide which artists get heard, and you become part of something far bigger than a playlist.

If you have been listening for a while and wondering how to get closer to the music you love, there is a seat waiting for you. Come find your place at the table over at SongHenge.com.

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Celtic Music Magazine: Old Salt on the Highland Road

Todd Wiley — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 13:00:34 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

It is Todd here once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other podcast we feature are Traveling in Ireland & Copperplate Time. The articles we showcase are about the live broadcast of Belfast’s Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, a Cornwall village that is “like stepping back in time”, & the Irish Arts Center in New York. We have a list of new albums. The highlighted festival is the Goderich Celtic Roots Festival taking place at Lions' Harbour Park in Goderich, ON, Canada. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #768: OLD SALT ON THE HIGHLAND ROAD

Mary – Grace Autumn Lee, Open The Door For Three, Almost Seamus, Juha Rossi, Avourneen, Rogue Diplomats, TJ Hull and Amanda Caretta – Hull, The Bilge Pumps, Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca, Release the Craicen, Medusa's Wake, Bang on the Ear, Pressgang Mutiny, Maggie MacInnes, Marc Gunn, Almost Seamus, Avourneen, Rogue Diplomats, The Bilge Pumps, Medusa's Wake, Bang on the Ear, Cathinca, Juha Rossi

Thank you to all of our Patrons

Listen to the Show

Episode Photo

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

Cheek to Cheek – by The Derry Aires
The Harbinger Suite: Vol 1 – by The Harbinger Suite
Looking at the Stars – by Joseph Linahon
Put Your Paw in Mine – by Raven & Goose
Celtic Fantasy: Observation of the Astral Tide – by YUNOKIA
Whistle This – by Karen McChesney

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

TRAVELING IN IRELAND: MOTORHOME TRAVEL IN IRELAND: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU RENT

Motorhome and campervan travel in Ireland has grown a lot in recent years, and this guide covers what first-timers actually need to know: vehicle size, where you can legally park overnight, and the apps that make it easier. Whether you're weighing a motorhome trip against a rental car or already sold on the idea, this should help you figure out how to do it well.

Listen here

DETAILS CONFIRMED FOR LIVE BROADCAST OF BELFAST’S FLEADH CHEOIL NA HÉIREANN

DETAILS have been announced for the live coverage of the upcoming Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann which will be held in Belfast for the first time.
The annual celebration of traditional Irish music, song and dance gets underway from August 6 to 9, and TG4 will be broadcasting the action live from the city.
The Irish language broadcaster will broadcast live at 9.30pm on each of the four nights of the festival.

To read more, go here!

COPPERPLATE TIME 543

BOTHY BAND, MOVING CLOUD, DAVE SHERIDAN, DERVISH, CATHERINE McEVOY, BRENDAN McGLINCHEY, DUCK BAKER, ELAINE REILLEY & DAITHI GORMLEY, DEIRDRE SCANLAN/SOLAS, TRIAN, JACK TALTY, OPEN THE DOOR FOR 3, MACALLA, MICK CONNEELY & DAVE MUNNEELY, BILLY McCOMISKEY, ANDREW MURRAY, DERVISH, TIM BUCKLEY, THE ROCHES, BOTHY BAND

Listen to the Show

MOVE OVER PORT ISAAC, THIS PRETTY CORNWALL VILLAGE THAT’S ‘LIKE STEPPING BACK IN TIME’ IS WELL WORTH A VISIT

If you're planning a trip to Cornwall this summer, it's likely you'll be including a visit to a picturesque harbour town during your time there. While many visitors to the county often choose to visit famous towns such as St Ives, Padstow and Port Isaac, if you love the characterful feel of Port Isaac, but want somewhere with a little bit more of a chilled out vibe, we've got another town to put your radar – Polperro.
Located on the south-east coast of Cornwall, in-between Looe and Fowey, this car-free village is like stepping back in time to a more traditional Cornwall, which is steeped in rich maritime history, perfect for a day trip or a cosy weekend away by the sea.

To read more, go here!

IRISH ARTS CENTER UNVEILS ITS MOST AMBITIOUS SEASON YET FOR 2026-27

Irish Arts Center has announced a sweeping 2026-27 season that will bring some of Ireland's most celebrated living artists to New York. The programming arrives five years after the opening of the organization's new building on 11th Avenue and spans theatre, dance, music, literature, and visual art.
The centerpiece of the season is a double bill from Galway's Druid theatre company, presenting J. M. Synge's “Riders to the Sea” alongside Shakespeare's “Macbeth” from February 18 to March 21. The production served as the highlight of Druid's 50th anniversary celebrations in 2025 and earned a five-star review from The Guardian, which praised the show for “showcasing the artistry of this tight-knit ensemble and the excavatory lens of Hynes.” Director Garry Hynes returns to IAC following the sold-out run of Beckett's “Endgame” in 2025, this time leading a cast of 11 actors including Marty Rea as Macbeth and fellow Tony winner Marie Mullen as Lady Macbeth.

To read more, go here!

GODERICH CELTIC ROOTS FESTIVAL

The ultimate Celtic experience on the shores of Lake Huron
The entertainers you will see are Brian Taheny, Jess & Richard Arrowsmith, Maggie’s Wake, RUNA, Rakish, TULUA, & many more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

July 30, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #768: Old Salt on the Highland Road

Mitchell Petersen — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 11:00:49 +0000

Gather up your packs and lets hit the Highland Road. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #768. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Mary – Grace Autumn Lee, Open The Door For Three, Almost Seamus, Juha Rossi, Avourneen, Rogue Diplomats, TJ Hull and Amanda Caretta – Hull, The Bilge Pumps, Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca, Release the Craicen, Medusa's Wake, Bang on the Ear, Pressgang Mutiny, Maggie MacInnes

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

0:02 – Intro: James Stovehouse

0:08 – Mary – Grace Autumn Lee “Helen Burns': Black Pat's/Over the Moor to Maggie's (Reels)” from Eyre

4:52 – WELCOME

6:21 – Open The Door For Three “Farewell, Lovely Mary/The Lizzes” from A Prosperous Gale

11:11 – Almost Seamus “Old First Ward” from Almost Seamus

14:28 – Juha Rossi “Miss MacDermott (Princess Royal)” from O'Carolan Tunes on Mandolin

17:07 – Avourneen “Stony Steps” from Way Stations

22:00 – FEEDBACK

25:18 – Rogue Diplomats “Mary Mac / Drunken Sailor” from Whiskey Picnic

28:30 – TJ Hull and Amanda Caretta – Hull “The Bunch of Keys” from Tippy Taps

32:31 – The Bilge Pumps “Old Salt” from Greatest Hits, Vols I – VII

36:57 – Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca “Lyke – Wake Dirge” from Fabula Feminae – EP

41:49 – THANKS

43:38 – Release the Craicen “Ode to Our Lost Fiddler / St. Anne's Reel” from Live! Songs on a Boat

48:04 – Medusa's Wake “Irish Sky” from Rascals and Rogues

52:23 – Bang on the Ear “The Black Tar Fiddle Set” from Highland Road

56:22 – Pressgang Mutiny “TEU” from Departure

1:01:15 – CLOSING

1:02:07 – Maggie MacInnes “Toiseach na Tràghad” from Uiseagan Bharraigh

1:06:23 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember: plastic isn't just a waste problem, it's a climate problem. Most plastic is made from oil and gas, and producing it releases greenhouse gases at every step. This July, take part in Plastic Free July. Swap single use plastics for reusable bags, bottles, and containers.

Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. Cutting plastic is another way to shrink demand for the fossil fuels behind it. Reduce your waste this month, one choice at a time.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week, including this one. Your support doesn't just fund the show, it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers

Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes. Audio engineering. Stunning graphics. Weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine. Show promotion. And most importantly, buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists like the ones you heard today.

And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:

Early access to episodes
Music – only editions
Free MP3 downloads
Exclusive stories and artist interviews
A vote in the Celtic Top 20

All of this lives over at SongHenge.com.

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Isobel McMahon messaged on Patreon: “I appreciate this clear statement on AI.”

Jordan Reeder sent a photo: “Hi, just wanted to show what I was doing while enjoying the awesome music on the podcast… one of these days I’d love to submit some of my music. Maybe after I chop my way through this pile of firewood!

Alex Meyers emailed from Toronto: “Politically neutral Irish music does not exist. Hi Marc, I started listening to the podcast seven years ago as I took my newborn son for long walks with wireless speakers perched on his stroller so he could listen too. Now with two boys we frequently listen while we have breakfast.

In a recent episode you responded to yet another listener who told you to stick to music and leave the politics alone. I am always impressed by how resolute you are in the face of these cynics, you never try to soften the message of peace, compassion, and inclusion.

Also, I've always found it hilariously ironic that someone would say “leave out the politics” about IRISH music, 1/3 of all Irish songs are about oppression and kicking out the British. Have these people never listened to The Wolfe Tones or The Cranberries?

Speaking of which, I highly recommend you check out the Irish rap group Kneecap. They perform in Irish/Gaeilge and English and deserve massive credit for popularizing Gaeilge. They are firmly on the side of the oppressed from Ireland to Palestine and their latest album is “Fenian”, which should tell you something about their politics.

Keep up the great work!”

Celtic Music Magazine: Water Bound for Ireland

Todd Wiley — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 13:00:18 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

It is Todd again. This week we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. We have also included episodes of Folk on Foot & Jock’s Celtic Calamity. The articles are about Ireland’s cultural heart, historic Scottish pub Joseph Pearce on Elm Row’s reopening, and a cottage on Welsh’s clifftops. We have a list of new albums. The festival we highlight is the Dublin Irish Festival taking place July 31 – August 2, 2026, at Coffman Park in Dublin, OH. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #767: WATER-BOUND FOR IRELAND

Arise & Go, Boxing Robin, Blackwillow Starling, Tulua, Dervish featuring Cathy Jordan, Leevy, Colin Steele, CaliCeltic, The Tan and Sober Gentlemen, River Driver, Dropkick Murphys, Sean Griffin

A special thanks to our newest Patron: Manuel Duarte

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

Naebams Bouzoukis – by the naebams band
In The Wild – by Kenn Gordon & Raven
We Are Gordons – by Kenn Gordon & Raven
Medieval Bard Songs in the Gothic Castle – byAndrei Krylov
A Little Shire for a Big Hobbit – by Atmospheric Mood
Liffey EP – by Liffey
Fairy Tales – by Jura Dja
Dark Fairy – by Gary Stadler & Ffion Elisa
Green Field Promise – by Polly Musichantres
Celtic Fantasy: Study on the Celestial Branch – by YUNOKIA
Tríd an bhForaois Tine – CHARITY FOR THE FONTAINEBLEAU FOREST – by Tristan an Arzhig
Keltic Drive – by Keltic Drive
Essential Arthur – by Arthur Davenport

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

FOLK ON FOOT: BOB COWEN AND JOHNNY FLYNN AT THORNBOROUGH HENGES

We’re going back to Neolithic times with the award winning author Rob Cowen (“Common Ground” and “North Road”) and his friend the actor and singer Johnny Flynn. For two thousand years the Thornborough Henges in what is now Yorkshire were used as ceremonial spaces and later became Bronze Age burial grounds. As we walk through these enormous circular monuments, Rob explains why he’s fascinated by their history and Johnny sings songs of burial and deep time. The pair reflect on their approach to creativity and shared passion for music.

Listen here

WHERE THE WILD ATLANTIC MEETS IRELAND'S CULTURAL HEART

IF YOU come by the Rosslare ferry, you arrive at the outskirts of Tipperary and a sign declares: “Welcome to Tipperary. You’ve come a long way”. But you've still some way to go before reaching Galway.
On the Wild Atlantic Way, Galway is about an hour’s drive from Shannon Airport. Ireland West Airport Knock is also around an hour away by road. Or fly to Dublin and enjoy one of Ireland's finest cross-country drives, taking nearly three hours across the heart of the country.
As the song says: “From Bantry Bay up to Derry Quay, and from Galway to Dublin town.”

To read more, go here!

JOCK'S CELTIC CALAMITY: SHOW NO 592

Crawford and Vallely, Corrina Hewat, Conal Ó Gráda, Simon Thoumire, Jim Sutherland, Paolo Nutini, The Glengarry Bhoys, Laurence Nugent, Isaac Alderson, Dave Curley, Tarahan, Alana Wilkinson, The East Pointers , Bua, Chris Stout, Catriona McKay, Blazin' Fiddles, Brian Finnegan, Ali Levack, Gina Jeffreys, Brendan Quinn, Anna McGarrigle, Kate McGarrigle, Craobh Rua, Ímar, Kathleen MacInnes, Hanneke Cassel, The McGoldrick Family, Karen Marshalsay, Seamus Egan, Barrule , TRIP, The Canny Band

Listen to the Show

FIRST LOOK INSIDE HISTORIC SCOTTISH BAR AHEAD OF IT REOPENING AFTER MAJOR REFURBISHMENT

A much-loved Category A listed Edinburgh pub will reopen following a major refurbishment by Heineken-owned Star Pubs.
The investment has turned Joseph Pearce on Elm Row into a ‘top-class’ neighbourhood pub with a stunning new décor.
The landmark pub formally opens its doors at 12pm on 24 July following nearly seven weeks of closure for the extensive works. Edinburgh born-and-bred Paul Henderson – a local resident and former regular – is moving from a career in social care to take the reins as the new operator running Joseph Pearce on behalf of Star Pubs.

To read more, go here!

LITTLE COTTAGE ON TOP OF WELSH CLIFFTOPS WHERE DAREDEVILS COME FROM ACROSS THE WORLD TO THROW THEMSELVES OFF

If location is king to create a memorable property then this pretty white-washed stone cottage can easily accept a crown for being a beachside beauty but with a truly unique neighbour.
The cottage can boast a wonderful location on the cliff-top above Abereiddy beach, a quiet cove on the north Pembrokeshire coast but it's not just a mesmerising sea view as a backdrop and rugged rocks in the foreground at this traditional Welsh cottage, or the one minute walk to the beach, that make its location exceptional.
On the far side of the small cove, accessed via a wooden bridge is a man-made feature that has been overwhelmed by nature to create a place where people come from countries around the world not just to visit but to experience.

To read more, go here!

DUBLIN IRISH FESTIVAL

Experience the music, dance and culture at the award-winning Dublin Irish Festival, July 31 to August 2, 2026. Since 1988, the first weekend in August has been reserved for what is now one of the largest Irish Festivals in the world. This annual event transforms the city of Dublin, Ohio, into a lively and colorful tapestry of beloved Irish traditions. Within the swell of music and dance, festival-goers can also explore the richness of Irish culture through savory foods, delicious Irish whiskeys, history re-enactors, hands-on workshops and several athletic demonstrations.
Some of the entertainment acts you will see are Eileen Ivers & The Brigideens, Gaelic Storm, SCYTHIAN, Ally the Piper, Fanore, The Prodigals, All Those Who Wander, Brigid's Cross, & more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

July 23, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #767: Water-bound for Ireland

Mitchell Petersen — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 11:00:35 +0000

A playlist that goes from the Snug all the way to the Shannon. Blackwillow Starling brings Lughnasadh morning vibes, River Driver takes us to Donegal Bay, and Leevy delivers that Top Road energy. Plus new music from Sean Griffin to close things out. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #767. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Arise & Go, Boxing Robin, Blackwillow Starling, Tulua, Dervish featuring Cathy Jordan, Leevy, Colin Steele, CaliCeltic, The Tan and Sober Gentlemen, River Driver, Dropkick Murphys, Sean Griffin

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

0:02 – Intro: Emily Huffman

0:10 – Arise & Go – “Munlochy Bridge / The Editor's Favourite / Portencross Castle / MacKinnon's Other Rant / Attwood O'Connor's / Dr. Alasdair MacKenzie's / The Lassie's Fashion / The Primrose Lass” from Moments of Light

5:48 – WELCOME

7:13 – Boxing Robin – “The Scots Guards Set” from Land of the Noon – Day Moon

11:17 – Blackwillow Starling – “Lughnasadh Morning” from Thornaeppel

16:33 – Tulua – “Ebb and Flow / Dawn of Dara / Scartaglen (Waltz / Jigs)” from In The Snug

21:54 – Dervish featuring Cathy Jordan – “The Broad Majestic Shannon” from The Great Irish Songbook Vol 2: Poets & Storytellers

26:04 – FEEDBACK

27:53 – Plastic Free July

30:46 – Leevy – “The Top Road Band” from Baile Mhúirne or the Soldiers March the Paps of Anú

34:45 – Colin Steele – “Elgin Laddie” from Stramash II

39:49 – CaliCeltic – “The Humours of Whiskey – Stick to the Craytur – Paddy's Panacea” from West of Shannon

44:21 – THANKS

46:11 – The Tan and Sober Gentlemen – “Waterbound” from Veracity

48:28 – River Driver – “Donegal Bay”

52:34 – Dropkick Murphys – “Chesterfields and Aftershave” from For The People (Expanded Edition)

56:59 – CLOSING

57:42 – Sean Griffin – “People Are Mad” from People Are Mad

1:00:44 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. Cutting plastic is another way to shrink demand for the fossil fuels behind it. Reduce your waste this month, one choice at a time.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:

Early access to episodes
Music – only editions
Free MP3 downloads
Exclusive stories and artist interviews
A vote in the Celtic Top 20

All of this lives over at SongHenge.com.

A special thanks to our newest Patron: Manuel Duarte

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Jonathan Dyer emailed: “Hey Marc, Thank you thank you.

Lovely programme as always (I’m currently listening … as far as Dál Riata so far… whilst sending the final DDP and artwork off for the album. So it’s really finished.… and trying not to melt in the unseasonably weather that we’re really not cut out for. Much love”

John Mahony messaged on Patreon: “Mark, thanks and bravo for the stand on AI. It seems it's getting harder and harder to avoid, let alone the impact on the environment and people's jobs in other fields. Let's keep finding ways to support real people making real music! Slainte!”

John Sharkey White, II messaged in response to the Plastic Free July PSA: “Hi Mark, I was listening to one of your latest podcasts and, as a physician, thought I could add to your discussion of plastics. I wanted to share some important health information about plastic containers. New research shows that tiny pieces of plastic — called microplastics — may be getting into our bodies more than most people realize.

What Are Microplastics?

Microplastics are very small plastic pieces, usually smaller than a pencil eraser. They break off from larger plastics over time. Scientists have found these particles in human blood, lungs, liver, and even in unborn babies. This means most people are already being exposed.

How Do They Get Into Our Bodies?

Plastic food and drink containers are one of the main sources. When plastic containers get scratched, worn out, or heated up, they can release tiny particles into your food or drink. Bottled water and packaged foods are also common sources. Plastics also contain added chemicals — like phthalates and bisphenols — that can leak into what you eat and drink.

Why Does It Matter?

Scientists are still learning how harmful microplastics really are, but early studies suggest they may cause inflammation, cell damage, and problems with the immune system. Some research also points to possible links with heart disease and reproductive health. Most experts agree that more studies are needed before we fully understand the risks.

What Can You Do?

The good news is there are simple steps you can take to lower your exposure:

Switch to glass, stainless steel, or ceramic containers when you can
Never microwave food in plastic — heat causes plastic to release more particles and chemicals
Use a reusable stainless – steel water bottle instead of single – use plastic bottles
Cut back on bottled water
Try to buy food with less plastic packaging
Throw away old or scratched plastic containers
Dust and vacuum your home regularly — microplastics can float in the air too

You probably can't avoid microplastics completely, but these small changes can

make a real difference while scientists continue to study the long – term effects.”

Celtic Music Magazine: Streams of Whiskey

Todd Wiley — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 13:00:54 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

It is Todd once again with your weekly newsletter. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Streams of whiskey. A waltz in the Gaelic tongue. A flame called Lasair burning through it all. This week's episode takes you from Loch Maree to the streets of Toulouse, fifteen artists strong. Let's go. It's the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #766.The other podcasts featured are Celtic Source & Celt in a Twist. Our articles this time around are about Afro-Gaelic music, King Charles’s visit to the Isle of Man, and Harris Distilleries new Whiskey. Per usual we have a list of new albums. The spotlight shines on the United Irish of Dayton Festival. The festival takes place July 24 – 26, 2026 at the RiverScape MetroPark in Dayton, OH. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST # 766: STREAMS OF WHISKEY

The Here & Now, Trouz Bras, Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca, Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal, Mairi McGillivray, The McDades, Ned Bigham, The Edinburgh Quartet & Màiri Macmillan, Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer, Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald, Hildaland, Mànran, Seán – Pól Ó Peatáin, O'Konrads band, Jiggy, Tara's Folk
A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Fuzzy, Gary R Hook, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Rick Boyce, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

À l'accordage ! – by Level Encre
Ravenmere – by Anu
Celtic Healing: Spark of the Inner Crystal – by YUNOKIA
Across the Giant's Causeway – by Shepherd's Pipes

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

CELTIC SOURCE: THE OLDEST WELSH FAIRYTALE EXPLAINED: ELIDY…

The story of Elidyr and the Tylwyth Teg is the oldest Welsh fairy tale on record. It tells of a boy's journey through ancient liminal spaces, encountering a deep realm of where the fairies have their own high ideals and ethics. But what does this story actually mean? What does it tell us about encounters with the extraordinary, about truth, childhood, and lost wisdom?

Listen here

AFRO-GAELIC BEATS TO BRING AFRICAN AND IRISH RHYTHMS TOGETHER IN HAMMERSMITH

A UNIQUE musical collaboration celebrating the shared rhythms of Africa and Ireland is set to take to the stage at the Irish Cultural Centre in Hammersmith this month.
Afro-Gaelic Beats, curated by Osibisa frontman Gregg Kofi Brown, will see African grooves combine with Irish traditional music in a special concert on Saturday, July 18.

To read more, go here!

CELT IN A TWIST: JULY 14, 2026

Join us for some fresh greens this week from The Cloverhearts, The Ollam, Edmonton family band The McDades and Scots bard Cabbie Drennan with a drink along, sing along. Check out Celt In A Twist with Patricia Fraser at a new time, new day and new station; FM96.1, Tuesdays at 9pm.

Listen to the Show

KING CHARLES SURPRISES LOCALS BY SPEAKING MANX DURING HISTORIC ISLE OF MAN VISIT

King Charles showcased his linguistic prowess during his inaugural visit to the Isle of Man as monarch, even joking about “massacring” the Manx language.
He addressed the island’s parliament, Tynwald, in the ancient Manx tongue, which is currently experiencing a revival.
Acknowledging “Manx Language Year – Blein ny Gaelgey,” he lightened the mood by quipping: “So I very much hope I have not succeeded at this point in massacring this wonderful celebration of your language…!”

To read more, go here!

HARRIS DISTILLERY TO RELEASE ISLE OF HARRIS WHISKY – AN ‘EXCITING NEW CHAPTER’ FOR ISLAND BUSINESS

After more than a decade of distilling, Isle of Harris Distillery has announced the launch of a new signature single malt Scotch whisky that captures its distinctive island character.
Proudly made entirely on the Isle of Harris, the new core expression encapsulates the lightly peated, fresh and vibrant island style created by the team of local distillers and blenders behind Isle of Harris Gin and The Hearach Single Malt Whisky.

To read more, go here!

UNITED IRISH OF DAYTON CELTIC FESTIVAL

Saturate your senses in the sights, sounds, and tastes of our Celtic heritage. Discover the magic that keeps people returning to Dayton’s Celtic Festival year after year. Come and experience the rich traditions that we Celtic folk hold dear to our hearts.
Some of the entertainment acts you will see are Gaelic Storm, Socks In the Frying Pan, Bastard Bearded Irishmen, Dogwood Road, Larry Fortson, Father Son and Friends, The Roving Rogues, and many more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

July 16, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #766: Streams of Whiskey

Mitchell Petersen — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 11:00:58 +0000

Streams of whiskey. A waltz in the Gaelic tongue. A flame called Lasair burning through it all. This week's episode takes you from Loch Maree to the streets of Toulouse, fifteen artists strong. Let's go. It's the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #766. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

The Here & Now, Trouz Bras, Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca, Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal, Mairi McGillivray, The McDades, Ned Bigham, The Edinburgh Quartet & Màiri Macmillan, Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer, Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald, Hildaland, Mànran, Seán – Pól Ó Peatáin, O'Konrads band, Jiggy, Tara's Folk

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

0:02 – Intro: Amy Bradley

0:10 – The Here & Now – “Lovely Miss Gunning” from Ladybird

4:37 – WELCOME

6:16 – Trouz Bras – “Quand J'etais Jeune / Birthday Dance” from Edge of the Spiral: Celtic Music of Brittany

12:58 – Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca – “Dúlamán” from Fabula Feminae – EP

15:41 – Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal – “The Flogging Reel” from From Kolkata to Dublin

18:08 – Mairi McGillivray – “‘S Mor mo Churam” from Mo Thìr

21:07 – FEEDBACK

24:36 – The McDades – “Gaelic Waltz Part 1” from Thread The Light

26:08 – Ned Bigham, The Edinburgh Quartet & Màiri Macmillan – “Laoidh a' Choin Duibh (the Lay of the Black Dog)” from The Heroic Ballads – Laoidhean nan Gaisgeach – EP

31:15 – Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer – “Kahlua” from Come Bring With A Noise

35:22 – Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald – “A' Mheanbh – chuileag (The Midge)” from Christina

38:07 – Hildaland – “Sandy's Waltz (feat. Ethan Setiawan & Louise Bichan)” from Fiddle Tunes (feat. Ethan Setiawan & Louise Bichan) – EP

41:19 – THANKS

43:18 – Mànran (feat. Ruairidh Gray) – “Loch Maree Islands” from single

46:17 – Seán – Pól – “The King of The Fairies” from single

49:30 – O'Konrads band – “Streams of Whiskey” from Streams of Whiskey

52:05 – Jiggy – “Lasair”

56:32 – CLOSING

57:31 – Tara's Folk – “How many Roads” from remember how we fall

1:01:45 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. Cutting plastic is another way to shrink demand for the fossil fuels behind it. Reduce your waste this month, one choice at a time.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

We’re approaching 21 years of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Since day one, this show has relied on the generosity of kind people like you. You inspire me to keep hunting down new music, interviews and stories from our community. So I can keep sharing this show with you. I am so grateful to you. Thank you so much.

As a patron, you get episodes before regular listeners. You get patron – only episodes like the Highlight Reel that came out last week. You get to vote in the Celtic Top 20 to help us collect the absolute best songs and tunes of the year into one magnificent end – of – year episode. And you keep this show running.

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Fuzzy, Gary R Hook, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Rick Boyce, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Ashley Paskill emailed in response to my question of how you celebrate Celtic culture through music. She wrote: “I listen to Celtic music in the car. When I give people rides, we get to share the music! It is always so powerful to hear friends mention how particular songs meant so much to them growing up and connect with them on that level.”

Heidi Murphy sent a picture: “Sorry. Just found this note. So I'm attaching that picture now. It's 2026 and this year I celebrated by going to see Danu and then by playing bodhran and tin whistle at home. Let me just say Danu was magnificent. LOVED it!!!”

Kelly Garrod emailed: “Hi Marc,

The music featured on your podcast has always been wonderful with good information from your comments. I prefer listening to the version with comments rather than the music only. I believe you do a good job of featuring wonderful Celtic music, featuring new artists that I might otherwise never hear while providing comments on both the music and views of the world. The comments are concise, do not distract from the overall experience of the podcast and relevant to many of the stories in the music you feature.

This is to let you know that I appreciate your political comments with your perspective on various topics. In today’s political world, I believe it is important to articulate those viewpoints on any platform we have. Since I keep a low social media profile, and have limited options, I am pleased to support one that I regularly support.

As a Patreon of your podcast for many years, I plan to keep supporting your work for many years to come. Please keep doing the good stuff you are doing! Thanks”

Celtic Music Magazine: Fortune’s Stormwrecked Fairies’s

Todd Wiley — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 13:00:19 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

Hello all, it is Todd once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other podcasts featured are Traveling in Ireland & Jock’s Celtic Calamity. The articles we spotlight are about an appeal to save a catholic church, your chance to live in a Welsh Castle, & saving the Christmas lights at Angarrack. The highlighted festival is the Madison Irish Fest taking place July 10 – 12, at Fête de Marquette, McPike Park in Madison, WI. We have also included more new Celtic albums. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #765: FORTUNE’S STORMWRECKED FAIRIE’S

Tulua, Alisa Marie, Maggie MacInnes, Alexis Chartrand & Nicolas Babineau, Jim Moray, Avourneen, Seán – Pól O Peatáin, MacCumhaill and the Gang, Christine Weir, Colin Steele, Slugger's Rule, Tan & Sober Gentlemen feat. Mason Via, Bang on the Ear, Some One's Sons, Margaret Davis, Marc Gunn, Tulua, Alisa Marie, Maggie MacInnes, Jim Moray, Avourneen, Christine Weir, Colin Steele, Bang on the Ear
A special thanks to our Celtic Legends who pledge $30 or more per month: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Fuzzy, Gary R Hook, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Rick Boyce, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

Music for the Church of the Wailing Banshees – by Chris Crilly
Tales of the Forest – by Anu
Greatest Australian Songs Volume 1 – by Stringybark Band
Greatest Australian Songs Volume 2 – by Stringybark Band
Medieval Fantasy Tavern Music Collection for Dnd & Rpg – by Andrei Krylov
Songs of Lughnasadh – by Chuck Bramlet
Celtic Healing: Illumination of the Azure Grotto – by YUNOKIA
Train Tracks (Songs of the Rails) – by Vox Nimbus

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

NATIONAL LEPRECHAUN MUSEUM TALKING STORIES

Welcome to the next and final episode of Season 3 of the National Leprechaun Museum's podcast, The Storytellers.
In Episode 13 of this season we discuss the next category of story required by the Filí (the bards) to know to earn their title. This category is Births!

Listen here

TOWN IN IRELAND BANS DRINKING IN PUBLIC PLACES AS OF TODAY 7/7/2026

A TOWN in Ireland has banned public drinking from today.
New alcohol bye-laws for Tuam in Co. Galway came into effect this morning, making it illegal to drink alcohol in public places.
Galway County Council have introduced the new legislation, formally titled the Control of Consumption and Possession of Alcohol in Public Places Bye-Laws 2026, following concerns flagged around the impacts of alcohol being consumed in public areas…

To read more, go here!

COPPERPLATE PODCAST 319

GERRY DVER, TEADA, BEN LENNON & TONY O’CONNELL, DAN BROUDER & ANGELINA CARBERRY, NORAH RENDELL, PATSY MOLONEY & JOHN REGAN, RONAN BROWNE & PETER O’LOUGHLIN, DAVE SHERIDAN, BOBBY CASEY, TIM DENNEHY, BOBBY & SEAN CASEY, KEVIN ROWSOME, CIARAN GALVIN/DANU, SORCHA COSTELLO, MICK O’BRIEN & CAOIMHIN O’RAGHALLAIGH, CAOIMHIN O’FEARGHAILL & PADDY TUTTY, JOHN & JACINTA McEVOY, & SÉAMUS ÓROCHÁIN & BRID O’DONOHUE

Listen to the Show

NOT SHREWSBURY, LEOMINSTER OR ROSS-ON-WYE — THE FAIRYTALE TOWN NEAR WALES WITH ONE OF UK'S BEST HIGH STREETS

Many of are spending considerable sums on expensive holidays this summer but you can enjoy an equally enchanting experience right here in the UK. With an abundance of spectacular locations to explore, there are lots of delightful towns perfect for a brief getaway but this treasure, not far from the Welsh border, merits being at the absolute top of your itinerary.
This ancient market town is packed with character and as you wander through its centre you'll discover a stunning blend of medieval, Tudor and Georgian architecture. It has been recognised by The Guardian among Britain's 10 “best independent high streets”, not solely for its appearance, but for being “full of cool independents rather than the usual chains”…

To read more, go here!

New initiative encourages children to explore Isle of Man's libraries

Families are being encouraged to explore the island's public libraries this summer through a new literary adventure celebrating reading, Manx culture and language.
The new Library Discovery Trail (Cassan Cronnee Lioarlan) has been created through a partnership between the island's six public libraries in Douglas, Ramsey, Peel, Port Erin, Castletown and Onchan.

To read more, go here!

CLEVELAND IRISH CULTURAL FESTIVAL

John O’Brien, Sr. gathered a group of friends and founded Cleveland Irish Cultural Festival in an effort to showcase, and thereby preserve the many traditions of his native land. Enlisting a group of incredibly dedicated volunteers, John realized his vision for Cleveland Iirsh Cultural Festival in 1982. During its two day run, that first festival drew more than 3,000 visitors.
The festival committee met soon after the crowds dispersed to evaluate and develop the event for the following summer. Their continual dedication has since produced one of the premier Irish festivals in the United States. The exponential growth of the festival stands as testament to this. In 1985 the event expanded to three days. In 1991, it finally outgrew the small wooded venue used during its first 9 years, and so relocated to The Berea Fairgrounds.
Some of the entertainment acts you will see are Ally the Piper, Brigid’s Cross, The Elders, The High Kings, Reverie Road, and many more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

July 9, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #765: Fortune’s Stormwrecked Fairie’s

Mitchell Petersen — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 11:00:29 +0000

Grab your pint and settle into the snug, because this week's show is stacked with fairies, rovers, and one seriously stormwrecked lass. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #765. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Tulua, Alisa Marie, Maggie MacInnes, Alexis Chartrand & Nicolas Babineau, Jim Moray, Avourneen, Seán – Pól O Peatáin, MacCumhaill and the Gang, Christine Weir, Colin Steele, Slugger's Rule, Tan & Sober Gentlemen feat. Mason Via, Bang on the Ear, Some One's Sons, Margaret Davis

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

0:02 – Intro: Morgan Ging at Ballykeefe Distillery

0:47 – Tulua – “Michael Relihan's / Rigney's / Cap and Bells (Reels)” from In The Snug

4:07 – WELCOME

5:30 – Alisa Marie – “King of the Fairies: Ambient Forest Mix” from King of the Fairies: Ambient

Forest Mix (2 – Track Single)

7:41 – Maggie MacInnes – “Nì Mhic Ailein, na bì' n èud rium” from Uiseagan Bharraigh

11:46 – Alexis Chartrand & Nicolas Babineau – “Soucy” from Écoutez tous

15:21 – Jim Moray – “Fortune Turns The Wheel” from Gallants

18:16 – FEEDBACK

25:54 – Avourneen – “Lakes of Killarney” from Way Stations

30:03 – Seán – Pól O Peatáin – “Amergin”

34:34 – MacCumhaill and the Gang – “Andy's Bar” from 2

42:05 – Christine Weir – “Stormwrecked” from single

46:35 – Colin Steele – “Declaration of Arbroath” from Stramash II

55:18 – THANKS

57:11 – Slugger's Rule – “I'm a Rover” from Clusterfolk

59:53 – Tan & Sober Gentlemen feat. Mason Via – “Rock Salt and Nails”

1:03:13 – Bang on the Ear – “XX (Twenty)” from Highland Road

1:06:17 – Some One's Sons – “The Boom is Back (Radio Edit)”

1:09:40 – CLOSING

1:10:46 – Margaret Davis – “Seagull of the Land – Under – Waves” from The Elder Lass

1:13:32 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. Cutting plastic is another way to shrink demand for the fossil fuels behind it. Reduce your waste this month, one choice at a time.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends who pledge $30 or more per month: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Fuzzy, Gary R Hook, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Rick Boyce, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Laura Grantham replied to my email about ‘How do you celebrate Celtic culture through music?’. She wrote: “I practice my Irish by listening to Celtic Music as gaeilge at least once a week”

Kent Hansen emailed: “Dear Marc and Todd,,

I've been listening to the Irish and Celtic music podcast for years now using Podbean as my pod catcher but every once and a while it doesn't seem to get the current show, right now the most recent one they have is April 2nd.

I realize that there's other ways to listen to the podcast but I'm also trying to listen to every old one I can and I still have a couple of hundred to go through and I'd hate to start over. Not sure how any of that works, but in the very least I thought you should know.”

And finally, just after our July 4th celebrations…

Patrick VanHorn emailed: “Keep speaking up for America. Hi Mark, I’ve been a listener for years, albeit always for free. But today, after listening to episode 749 – Celtic Protest Songs – I knew I had to finally become a paid subscriber. Thank you for introducing me to new Celtic performers. And thank you for speaking up for America. Slainte!”

CASTRO DE BARONA

Celtic Music Magazine

Todd Wiley — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 13:00:10 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

Hello all, it is Todd once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. We do have a Highlight Reel for our patrons. The other podcasts featured are Traveling in Ireland & Jock’s Celtic Calamity. The articles we spotlight are about an appeal to save a catholic church, your chance to live in a Welsh Castle, & saving the Christmas lights at Angarrack. The highlighted festival is the Madison Irish Fest taking place July 10 – 12, at Fête de Marquette, McPike Park in Madison, WI. We have also included more new Celtic albums. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST HIGHLIGHT REEL 5.3 – 752-757

Cherish The Ladies, Release the Craicen, Heather Dale, Eimear Arkins, The Bow Tides, Arise & Go, Wolf Loescher, Arise & Go, Carroll Sisters Trio, Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal, Mànran, Dropkick Murphys, The Here & Now, Santiago Molina, Cedar Dobson, The Irish Lassies, Bealtaine, Sora, Boxing Robin, Gillian Boucher & Bob McNeill, & Fialla

A special thanks to our Patrons!!!

Listen to the Show – (Patrons Only)

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

Worth The Risk – by The Consequences
The Last Druid – by Celtic Melodies
North-West Passage – by North of Argyll
The Price for Progress – by CK Fusion
The Road To The Hall – by David Duncan Mackay
Living My Life – by Diaspora
Angufied – by Captain Angus
This Is How I Fight – by Mîndäl
Celtic Healing: Light of the Violet Trance – by YUNOKIA
In The Stillness Of The Stars – by Margee Minier-Tubbs, Premik Russell Tubbs

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

TRAVELING IN IRELAND: SIP YOUR WAY AROUND THE RING OF KERRY: A WHISKEY LOVER’S GUIDE TO IRELAND’S MOST SCENIC DRIVE

The Ring of Kerry is famous for dramatic coastlines, mountain passes, colorful villages, and unforgettable views. It's one of Ireland's most iconic driving routes – and for good reason. But beyond the photo stops and scenic overlooks is another experience that rewards travelers willing to slow down…

Listen here

APPEAL TO SAVE BIRMINGHAM'S HISTORIC IRISH CATHOLIC CHURCH

FOR MORE than 175 years, St Joseph's Catholic Church in Nechells has stood as a symbol of Birmingham's Irish story.
Built to serve Irish families who fled the Famine, the church has welcomed generations of people, and has marked countless baptisms, weddings and funerals.
But now the historic church is falling apart.
A structural inspection has found its bell tower to be unsafe, leaving the main entrance closed and repairs costing up to £350,000.

To read more, go here!

Jock's Celtic Calamity: Show No 589

Cróga, Admiral Fallow , The Black Family, Pipers, Sam Barber, The Tannahill Weavers, Ryan Young, Laurence Nugent, Isaac Alderson, Dave Curley, Tallymoore, Blackwater Céilí Band, Scythian, Damien O'Kane & Ron Block, Anúna, Michael McGlynn, Méav Ní Mhaolchatha, Buíoch, Hannah Read & Michael Starkey, The Longest Johns, Charlie Oriain, Wayne Gratz, Cloudstreet, Beltaine, Ashley Davis, Ceolbeg, Fay Hield, At The Racket: John Carty, The Selkie Girls, Cara, Niall and Cillian Vallely, Qristina & Quinn Bachand, Paula Macaskill, Tabache

Listen to the Show

COULD YOU LIVE IN A 200-ROOM CASTLE? THE NATIONAL TRUST IS OFFERING A CHANCE TO MOVE IN

Have you ever wanted to live in a 200-year-old gothic castle with dozens of acres of gardens and woodland to roam around?
The National Trust is offering a rare opportunity to live and work in one set on the edge of Eryri National Park in north Wales…

To read more, go here!

FAMOUS CORNWALL CHRISTMAS LIGHTS AT ANGARRACK AT RISK AFTER STORM GORETTI DESTRUCTION

It's famous far beyond Cornwall, but at serious risk after Storm Goretti. ‘This is something truly special for our community and beyond, and we don't want to lose it'…

To read more, go here!

MADISON IRISH FEST

Madison Irish Fest has long celebrated Irish culture in song, dance, crafts and spoken word. The Fest this year features a strong line-up of Celtic music favorites from Wisconsin, the US, and Ireland. Bands include Irish traditional music, Irish rock and Irish Blue Grass.
Join us for a spectacular celebration of Irish culture and dance at the Madison Irish Fest – on the Main and Cabaret stages – at McPike Park during the Fête de Marquette celebration.
Some of the entertainers you will see are 3 Pints Gone, Conor Mallon Band, Jeff Olson, Lillies of the Midwest, Lochanside, SlipJig, The Kissers, and more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

July 2, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Celtic Music Magazine: Dancing in Belfast

Todd Wiley — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 13:00:52 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

Hello our wonderful readers, it is Todd once again with your weekly dose of Celtic news. IN this issue we a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other podcast we showcase are Erin’s Isle & Celt in a Twist. The articles highlighted are about the island of Jersey, Maggie O’Farrell, & The island of Little Haven. Per usual there is a list of new Celtic albums. The featured festival is the Kincardine Scottish Festival & Highland Games taking place July 3 – 5, at Victoria Park and surrounding areas in Kincardine, Ontario, Canada. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #764: DANCING IN BELFAST

Alexis Chartrand & Nicolas Babineau, Mary Beth Carty, Trouz Bras, Ned Bigham, The Edinburgh Quartet & Màiri Macmillan, Hildaland, Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca, Dervish featuring Aoife O'Donovan, Blackwillow Starling, Darren Flynn, Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald, Celtic Cross, Bang on the Ear, Shades of Green, MacCumhaill and the Gang, Margaret Davis

A special thanks our Celtic Legends: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Emma Bartholomew, Fuzzy, Gary R Hook, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Rick Boyce, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

Off The Floor – by Roblo's Rock
Sunset Magic Tales of the Gothic Medieval Castle – by Andrei Krylov
The Return to Camelot – by Tales of Avalon
The Iron Path – by Techcowgirl
Bodhránaidheacht 1 – by Feirdia Ní Mhocháin
Gweiddi Dros Ynys Môn – by Ceoltóir Doinsiún
The Mystic Muses: Live from New Zealand 2026 – by Melissa Cox
Celtic Healing: Whispers of the Amethyst Lake – by YUNOKIA
Folk Songs and Dances – by Mattea Saayman

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

ERIN’S ISLE: SAVING DONKEYS & CHANGING LIVES IN IRELAND

Ireland’s donkey sanctuary is not an easy place to get to. Liscarroll is 100 miles from Galway and 48 miles from Cork. But that is where the donkeys have room to run and where they they can retire in safety.
There are about 150 donkeys living there. And these are just a part of the overall rescue effort that houses 1500 donkeys at the sanctuary’s collective properties around the country. But Liscarrol is where you can visit those fuzzy-faced donkeys.

Listen here

AN ISLAND ADVENTURE IN GLORIOUS JERSEY WHICH WAS WELL WORTH THE WAIT…

JERSEY is an island that I have always wanted to visit.
I have friends, you see, who have been there and have fed back glorious reviews.
One friend in particular spent a very long chunk of time living there, having visited for a holiday from Ireland and deciding to stay. That was a few years ago now, but it has always stuck in my mind.
The fact that my friend, who likes a lot of the same things that I do in life – including, although not necessarily in this order, seafood, beaches, family time, wine and holidays, was so enamoured with this island that she chose to stay for a significant amount of time, entirely off the cuff, well I’m not ashamed to say that that left me with serious FOMO…

To read more, go here!

CELT IN A TWIST JUNE 23, 2026

Dervish draws deep from the well of Irish tradition on their latest collection from The Great Irish Songbook Volume 2. Meanwhile The Ollam take trad someplace else entirely, featuring John McSherry and groovemonster Joe Dart. This hour features fresh track from Trouz Bras, North America's keepers of Breton music heritage and Newfoundland's Rum Ragged take us down The Road To Lushes Bight. Lard Tunderin', it must be Celt In A Twist!

Listen to the Show

MAGGIE O'FARRELL ON HOW FAMILY HISTORY INFORMED HER NEW NOVEL: ‘THESE ARE MY PEOPLE'

On 16 March, just after 8:30am, I switched on Radio 4’s Today programme and there, live from Los Angeles, waiting for a limo to take her to the post-Oscars Vanity Fair party, was Maggie O’Farrell. I can’t say I know her very well, but I know her somewhat better than I do Jane Fonda, Nicole Kidman, Mick Jagger, Timothée Chalamet, Sam Altman, Larry David, Javier Bardem and all the rest of the A-listers she would soon be moving amongst…

To read more, go here!

THIS FISHING VILLAGE HAS A SANDY COVE, SEASIDE PUB AND SEAFOOD SANDWICHES

Found in a scenic fold of Pembrokeshire’s craggy coastline, Little Haven isn’t trying to impress you, and that’s exactly why it does.
This tiny fishing village has an unpolished charm, with lovely pubs, seafood sarnies, and a pretty cove that fills and empties with the tide. In the warmer months, locals and visitors spill out onto the slipway with ice creams and pints, giving the place a low-key buzz…

To read more, go here!

KINCARDINE SCOTTISH FESTIVAL & HIGHLAND GAMES

Celebrating over 25 years, our award-winning festival has welcomed thousands of visitors from all over North America to the beautiful lakeside town of Kincardine to join us in celebrating all things Scottish.
Proud to have received the Tourism Recognition Certificate from the Municipality of Kincardine!
Some of the entertainers you will see are 54·40, Schiehallion, Glengarry Bhoys, & more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

June 25, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Céad Míle Fáilte

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #764: DANCING IN BELFAST

Alexis Chartrand & Nicolas Babineau, Mary Beth Carty, Trouz Bras, Ned Bigham, The Edinburgh Quartet & Màiri Macmillan, Hildaland, Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca, Dervish featuring Aoife O'Donovan, Blackwillow Starling, Darren Flynn, Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald, Celtic Cross, Bang on the Ear, Shades of Green, MacCumhaill and the Gang, Margaret Davis

A special thanks our Celtic Legends: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Emma Bartholomew, Fuzzy, Gary R Hook, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Rick Boyce, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

Off The Floor – by Roblo's Rock
Sunset Magic Tales of the Gothic Medieval Castle – by Andrei Krylov
The Return to Camelot – by Tales of Avalon
The Iron Path – by Techcowgirl
Bodhránaidheacht 1 – by Feirdia Ní Mhocháin
Gweiddi Dros Ynys Môn – by Ceoltóir Doinsiún
The Mystic Muses: Live from New Zealand 2026 – by Melissa Cox
Celtic Healing: Whispers of the Amethyst Lake – by YUNOKIA
Folk Songs and Dances – by Mattea Saayman

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

ERIN’S ISLE: SAVING DONKEYS & CHANGING LIVES IN IRELAND

Ireland’s donkey sanctuary is not an easy place to get to. Liscarroll is 100 miles from Galway and 48 miles from Cork. But that is where the donkeys have room to run and where they they can retire in safety.
There are about 150 donkeys living there. And these are just a part of the overall rescue effort that houses 1500 donkeys at the sanctuary’s collective properties around the country. But Liscarrol is where you can visit those fuzzy-faced donkeys.

Listen here

AN ISLAND ADVENTURE IN GLORIOUS JERSEY WHICH WAS WELL WORTH THE WAIT…

JERSEY is an island that I have always wanted to visit.
I have friends, you see, who have been there and have fed back glorious reviews.
One friend in particular spent a very long chunk of time living there, having visited for a holiday from Ireland and deciding to stay. That was a few years ago now, but it has always stuck in my mind.
The fact that my friend, who likes a lot of the same things that I do in life – including, although not necessarily in this order, seafood, beaches, family time, wine and holidays, was so enamoured with this island that she chose to stay for a significant amount of time, entirely off the cuff, well I’m not ashamed to say that that left me with serious FOMO…

To read more, go here!

CELT IN A TWIST JUNE 23, 2026

Dervish draws deep from the well of Irish tradition on their latest collection from The Great Irish Songbook Volume 2. Meanwhile The Ollam take trad someplace else entirely, featuring John McSherry and groovemonster Joe Dart. This hour features fresh track from Trouz Bras, North America's keepers of Breton music heritage and Newfoundland's Rum Ragged take us down The Road To Lushes Bight. Lard Tunderin', it must be Celt In A Twist!

Listen to the Show

MAGGIE O'FARRELL ON HOW FAMILY HISTORY INFORMED HER NEW NOVEL: ‘THESE ARE MY PEOPLE'

On 16 March, just after 8:30am, I switched on Radio 4’s Today programme and there, live from Los Angeles, waiting for a limo to take her to the post-Oscars Vanity Fair party, was Maggie O’Farrell. I can’t say I know her very well, but I know her somewhat better than I do Jane Fonda, Nicole Kidman, Mick Jagger, Timothée Chalamet, Sam Altman, Larry David, Javier Bardem and all the rest of the A-listers she would soon be moving amongst…

To read more, go here!

THIS FISHING VILLAGE HAS A SANDY COVE, SEASIDE PUB AND SEAFOOD SANDWICHES

Found in a scenic fold of Pembrokeshire’s craggy coastline, Little Haven isn’t trying to impress you, and that’s exactly why it does.
This tiny fishing village has an unpolished charm, with lovely pubs, seafood sarnies, and a pretty cove that fills and empties with the tide. In the warmer months, locals and visitors spill out onto the slipway with ice creams and pints, giving the place a low-key buzz…

To read more, go here!

KINCARDINE SCOTTISH FESTIVAL & HIGHLAND GAMES

Celebrating over 25 years, our award-winning festival has welcomed thousands of visitors from all over North America to the beautiful lakeside town of Kincardine to join us in celebrating all things Scottish.
Proud to have received the Tourism Recognition Certificate from the Municipality of Kincardine!
Some of the entertainers you will see are 54·40, Schiehallion, Glengarry Bhoys, & more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

June 25, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #764: Dancing in Belfast

Mitchell Petersen — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 11:00:00 +0000

From Québécois fiddle fire to a Highland fairy lullaby, this week's Celtic journey takes you from County Clare to Brittany and beyond. New music, fresh voices, and a few surprises. This is the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #764 – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Alexis Chartrand & Nicolas Babineau, Mary Beth Carty, Trouz Bras, Ned Bigham, The Edinburgh Quartet & Màiri Macmillan, Hildaland, Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca, Dervish featuring Aoife O'Donovan, Blackwillow Starling, Darren Flynn, Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald, Celtic Cross, Bang on the Ear, Shades of Green, MacCumhaill and the Gang, Margaret Davis

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

0:07 – Alexis Chartrand & Nicolas Babineau “Lebreux” from Écoutez tous

3:11 – WELCOME

4:14 – Mary Beth Carty “Mary Anne” from single

7:59 – Trouz Bras “Life is for Living” from Edge of the Spiral: Celtic Music of Brittany

11:57 – Ned Bigham, The Edinburgh Quartet & Màiri Macmillan “Bàs Osgair (the Death of Oscar)” from The Heroic Ballads – Laoidhean nan Gaisgeach – EP

16:59 – Hildaland “The Watchman's Polka (feat. Ethan Setiawan & Louise Bichan)” from Fiddle Tunes (feat. Ethan Setiawan & Louise Bichan) – EP

20:21 – FEEDBACK

21:26 – Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca “Onder de Linde (Unter der Linden)” from Fabula Feminae – EP

26:13 – Dervish featuring Aoife O'Donovan “Jackie” from The Great Irish Songbook Vol 2: Poets & Storytellers

29:36 – Blackwillow Starling “Woodland Green” from Thornaeppel

32:16 – Darren Flynn “Pinebox” from (single)

35:52 – Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald “An Greusaiche (The Cobbler)” from Christina

39:26 – THANKS

41:43 – Celtic Cross “Dancin' Belfast” from Dancin' Belfast – Single

45:16 – Bang on the Ear “My Bonnie Lassie” from Highland Road

48:15 – Shades of Green “I'm Drunk (Yo – Ho!)” from Single

50:46 – MacCumhaill and the Gang “Crathadh t'Aodaich” from 2

53:49 – CLOSING

55:18 – Margaret Davis “Highland Fairy Lullabye” from The Elder Lass

58:55 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Clean energy isn't just good for the planet. It's good for your wallet. Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. Now is a good reminder of what we stand to lose — and what we're fighting to protect.

The science is clear. Human activity is driving climate change. Record heat. Rising seas. Disappearing seasons. And yet too many politicians would rather protect billionaire energy interests than help working families lower their bills.

Real change starts when we stop letting the ultra – rich write our energy policy. Support clean energy. Reduce your waste. Talk to your elected leaders. Every choice moves us toward a future that's more affordable, more free, and a planet that can actually breathe.

The power to fix this is ours. Let's use it.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

These musicians are not part of some corporation. They are small indie groups that rely on people just like you to support their music so they can keep creating it. Please show your generosity. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

This show exists because of you. Every episode… the music, the production, the Celtic Music Magazine, the effort to find and support independent artists from around the world. It all runs on the generosity of our Patrons of the Podcast.

Your support pays for audio engineering and graphics. It helps us buy music directly from independent Celtic artists. It keeps this community growing week after week.

And in return, you get something good. Early access to episodes. Music – only editions. Free downloads. Exclusive content. And the power to vote for your favorite tracks, which shapes the show in a real way.

A special thanks our Celtic Legends: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Emma Bartholomew, Fuzzy, Gary R Hook, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Rick Boyce, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Celtic Music Magazine: Celtic Blood and Burning Roads

Todd Wiley — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 13:00:41 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

Todd here again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other showcased podcasts are Celtic Source & Copperplate Time. The articles featured are about an activist being honoured, a young poet and spoken worf, & Tartan Army. We have new albums as well. The highlighted festival is the Ohio Scotish Games taking place June 26 -27 at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds in Berea, Oh. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #763: CELTIC BLOOD AND BURNING ROADS

Sean Heely and Beth Patterson, The Byrne Brothers, serious kitchen, Jared Bogle, Matt and Shannon Heaton, Ockham's Razor, Runa, Hounds of Finn, The Horsenecks, Skyrie, Vicki Swan and Jonny Dyer, Jarmila Xymena Gorna, The McDades

A special thanks our newest Patron of the Podcast: John W

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

The Dream – by Anu
Dance of the Spiritwild – by TOFIE
Tree of Life (Sketches 2026)j – by Owen Vaughan Hanner
The Quiet Collection: Celtic – by Bill Lollar
Tales From The Glen – by Bang On The Ear
Secret Oaks – by Secret Oaks

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

Celtic Source 78: The Oldest Welsh Fairytale Explained: Elidy…

Get the short guide ‘The 5 Keys of Celtic Myth' here: https://celticsource.online/the-5-keys-of-celtic-myth/ The story of Elidyr and the Tylwyth Teg is the oldest Welsh fairy tale on record. It tells of a boy's journey through ancient liminal spaces, encountering a deep realm of where the fairies have their own high ideals and ethics. But what does this story actually mean? What does it tell us about encounters with the extraordinary, about truth, childhood, and lost wisdom?

Listen here

ACTIVIST HONOURED FOR ‘DEDICATING LIFE' TO IRISH COMMUNITY IN BRITAIN

COMMUNITY activist Angie Birtill has been honoured for ‘dedicating her life to community, solidarity and social justice’.
Born into a Liverpool Irish family in the 1950s, where her Co. Meath-born mother was working as a nurse, Ms Birtill has gone on to become one of the longest-standing activists among the Irish community.
In the 1970s, Ms Birtill moved to London, where she was elected a councillor in Kilburn and later joined the London Irish Women’s centre in Hackney.

To read more, go here!

COPPERPLATE TIME 540

BOTHY BAND, GATEHOUSE, BRIAN CONWAY, SEAN TYRRELL, KEVIN GLACKIN & RONAN BROWNE, SEAN TYRRELL, McCARTHY FAMILY, TOMMY McCARTHY & LOUISE COSTELLO, PATSY MOLONEY, ROSIE STEWART, BOTHY BAND, PADRAIG RYNNE, DEZI DONNELLY, LISA KNAPP, JACK E McAULEY, RALPH McTELL, BERT JANSCH, BOB DYLAN & JOHNNY CASH, TIM O’BRIEN, GOITSE, THE VOICE SQUAD, BOTHY BAND

Listen to the Show

POETRY IS MY THERAPY – I HOPE PEOPLE HEAR MY ACCENT AND FEEL INSPIRED

A young poet who calls the spoken word her “biggest form of therapy” says the growing popularity of sharing poetry online is because people “have a lot to say”.
Georgia Griffiths, 26, from Merthyr Tydfil, said writing poetry helped her to make sense of the world in today's “very political climate”.

To read more, go here!

TARTAN ARMY'S ‘NO SCOTLAND, NO PARTY' CHANT WILL ‘NEVER BE FORGOTTEN' IN US CITY

The Tartan Army have been well received after they based themselves in Providence for the World Cup. The skirl of bagpipes has become a familiar noise in the US city after thousands of members of Scotland fans flocked there for the World Cup.
A representative from a Rhode Island visitors' organisation joked she can hear bagpipes “in my sleep” as buoyant punters base themselves in the New England city during the tournament.

To read more, go here!

OHIO SCOTTISH GAMES & CELTIC FESTIVAL

GATES OPEN FRIDAY AT 4:45PM AND SATURDAY AT 7:30AM FOR MORNING COMPETITION. ENTERTAINMENT BEGINS AROUND 10:30AM
The Ohio Scottish Games and Celtic Festival is held on the 4th Saturday every June.
The Games runs under The Scottish American Cultural Society of Ohio, Inc (SACSO).
Established in 1977, this long standing event is presented by members of The Ohio Scottish American Cultural Society of Ohio, an organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of their proud Scottish Heritage and ancestry.
The Ohio Scottish Games and Celtic Festival highlights the traditional dance, music and athletics of the ancient highland games while celebrating the cultural of the Celtic nations. This event is for the enjoyment of all Scots and friends as well as to introduce the Scottish Arts and traditions to the community.
Some of the entertainers you will see are The Prodigals, Sweet Killarney, Trio 42, Geordie Symes' Pirates Smallpipe Group, & more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

June 18, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #763: Celtic Blood and Burning Roads

Mitchell Petersen — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 11:00:32 +0000

Celtic music is always burning somewhere. Today we fan the flame with new sounds from Sean Heely and Beth Patterson, The McDades, Skyrie, and a whole lot more. This is the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #763 – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Sean Heely and Beth Patterson, The Byrne Brothers, serious kitchen, Jared Bogle, Matt and Shannon Heaton, Ockham's Razor, Runa, Hounds of Finn, The Horsenecks, Skyrie, Vicki Swan and Jonny Dyer, Jarmila Xymena Gorna, The McDades

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

0:06 – Sean Heely and Beth Patterson “Aux Nachitoches” from Stir the Blood to Fire

3:32 – WELCOME

7:58 – The Byrne Brothers “Waikiki Reel (Finn Byrne) Seanamhac Tube Station Reel [Traditional]” from Living the Dream

11:27 – serious kitchen “wind that shakes the barley” from on the mash

15:42 – Jared Bogle “The Orphan / The Black Rogue (Jigs)” from The Old Road Home

19:02 – Matt and Shannon Heaton “P Joe Hayes #2/Cottage in the Grove/Mother and Child (reels)” from Whirring Wings

23:05 – FEEDBACK

24:02 – Runa “For All That You Do Set” from When The Light Gets In

29:35 – Hounds of Finn “Where It Burns” from Gravity Pulls

34:06 – The Horsenecks “Jinny Lin's Tune” from In the West

36:42 – THANKS

37:43 – Ockham's Razor “Murmuring” from Secrets and Silence

42:00 – Skyrie “Solid Ground” from Hunger Road

47:01 – Vicki Swan and Jonny Dyer “Pyramid Bourrée” from Come Bring With A Noise

50:48 – Jarmila Xymena Gorna “Escape – Dihangfa” from Single

56:24 – CLOSING

57:46 – The McDades “The Lily of the West” from Thread The Light

1:01:57 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Clean energy is the single most powerful tool we have to fight climate change. Solar, wind, hydro – every kilowatt of clean power displaces the fossil fuels warming our planet. The big picture matters. So do the small choices you make every day.

This week's tip comes from the 5 Rs of Sustainability: Refuse. Before you buy something new, ask yourself if you actually need it. Every item you don't buy is one that never had to be made, shipped, or eventually thrown away. Refusing is the most underrated act of sustainability there is. Start there. Your wallet and the planet will both thank you.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

CHANGE IN WHO IS PLAYED ON THE PODCAST, NO AI MUSIC, FOCUS ON PERFORMING BANDS

Something important happened recently. I received my first – ever submission from a Celtic “band” that was 100% AI – generated.

Honestly? It sounded good. And I was grateful the artist, Emma Rove, was completely open about it. The music and the vocals were AI. I couldn't tell.

But from the early days of this podcast, my goal has been to promote indie Celtic artists. I'm updating that for the future. My goal is to promote performing indie Celtic artists.

This actually works well for me. I'm not a fan of most “Celtic Music” on YouTube. It's usually electronic and orchestrated. Not my thing.

So if the artists aren't performing, I probably won't play them on the podcast.

Hopefully that makes for a better show all around. Thanks for your support.

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

This episode exists because of our amazing Patrons of the Podcast. Every month, they chip in to keep this show running – covering audio engineering, graphic design, Celtic Music Magazine, and letting me go out and buy music directly from independent Celtic artists like the ones you just heard.

Want in? It's simple. Step one: head to SongHenge.com. Step two: pick a support level that works for you. Step three: start enjoying the perks. That means early access to new episodes, music – only editions with no talking, free downloads, exclusive content, and even voting rights to help shape the show.

Slàinte to every single Patron. You make this possible.

A special thanks our newest Patron of the Podcast: John W

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Celtic Music Magazine: Socks in the Frying Pan Interview

Todd Wiley — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 13:00:56 +0000

Céad Míle Fáilte

It is Todd once again with your weekly news from the world of the Celts. In this issue we have new episodes of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast & Pub Songs & Stories. The other featured podcasts are In tune with Tradition & Jock’s Celtic Calamity. The articles are about a new podcast for Foinneóg: 75 Bliain Ag Fás, RTÉ producer Cliodhna Ní Anluain’s new book, and the St. Magnus Festival. The festival we spotlight this week is the Halifax Celtic Cultural Festival, Which takes place June 17 – 21, 2026 at the Halifax City Hall in Wednesday for the flag raising, followed by The Old Triangle for Giving Celtic Context, then at Spatz Theater Thursday – Sunday. All in Halifax, Nova Scotia. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #762: SOCKS IN THE FRYING PAN INTERVIEW

Socks in the Frying Pan, Téada, Amadan, Old Man Flanagan's Ghost, The Celtic Kitchen Party, Brobdingnagian Bards, The Gothard Sisters

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Fuzzy, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff A, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

Irish Piano Music for Saint Patrick's Day – by James Woodward
Blarney Stoned – by Blarney Stoned
Tha Mi Saor (I Am Free) – by Karen McChesney
Celtic Acoustic: Lanterns of the Hidden Alley – by YUNOKIA
The Last Horizon – by Old Gods Covenant
Roses – by Stephanie Irvine
Twilight in the Valley – by The Undead Association
Sunny – by Fae Wiedenhoeft

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

Pub Songs & Stories #316: Pub Songs at Renaissance Festivals

A solo bard on the Renaissance stage. A band called May Will Bloom joining the revelry. And the Georgia Renaissance Festival, alive with Celtic folk magic. Music from Marc Gunn, Bealtaine, Skara Brae

This is Pub Songs & Stories #316

IN TUNE WITH TRADITION: I REALLY LOVE IRISH MUSIC

Join Tara Connaghan as she chats with Four Men and a Dog bodhrán player, Gino Lupari. Explore the rich culture of Irish traditional music sessions, the importance of etiquette, and how to improve as a musician. Insights from a seasoned Irish musician sharing stories, tips, and the essence of session camaraderie.

Listen here

FOUNDERS, ICONS & KEY FIGURES

A chairde,
We are delighted to launch Foinneóg: 75 Bliain Ag Fás. A brand new podcast brought to you by Comhaltas, dropping every Wednesday ahead of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.
Hosted by Máire Ní Churraoin, each episode will feature stories, music, memories and conversations from across the Comhaltas Community.
Episode 1: Available Now

Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

JOCK'S CELTIC CALAMITY: SHOW NO 586

Altan , Jenna Reid, Duncan Lyall, Horslips, Arcady, Sandy Denny, Seth Staton Watkins, Amaidí, The Poozies, Blazin' Fiddles , De Dannan, Maggie MacInnes, Gerry O’Connor, Katie Macfarlane, Donnacha Doyle , The Fiddle Case, Open the Door for Three, Silly Wizard , Sian, Daimh, Coda, Boys of the Lough, Ye Vagabonds, The New England Irish Harp…, Natalie MacMaster & Donnell, Aoife Granville, Bob Fox, The Mischa Macpherson Trio, The Bee Eaters

Listen to the Show

RTÉ PRODUCER MARKS A CENTURY OF IRISH RADIO WITH NEW BOOK

AS RTÉ celebrates 100 years, radio producer Cliodhna Ní Anluain has written about the sounds and stories of Ireland through a century of change.
Ní Anluain, who has worked in radio at RTÉ since 2000, is the author of On Air, a new illustrated history of Irish radio, set to be published on October 30.
The book arrives as Ireland's national broadcaster marks the centenary of 2RN, the station that first went on air in 1926 and evolved into today's RTÉ Radio.

To read more, go here!

THE ST MAGNUS FESTIVAL AT 50: ‘AN EVENT THAT'S ALIVE TO ITS SURROUNDINGS'

Over five decades, Orkney’s St Magnus Festival has evolved by remaining responsive to place, to artists, and to audience, writes its artistic director Alasdair Nicolson

To read more, go here!

HALIFAX CELTIC CULTURAL FESTIVAL 2026

Welcome
Thanks for joining us during our annual gathering to celebrate Celtic heritages through the cultural expressions of music, song, dance, languages, genealogy, arts and crafts, and histories.
Some of the entertainers you will see are Alycia Putnam & Family, Beòlach, Callehan, Corbies, Kitchen Criminals, The Foleys, and more!!!!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

June 11, 2026

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

#celticmusicmagazine

Marc Gunn

Celtic Music Magazine: Occasional Scotland

Céad Míle Fáilte

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC & CULTURE ONLINE?

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

Slainte!

TELL A FRIEND

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #781: Occasional Scotland

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

CELTIC PODFEST AND NERDY ARTS MARKET

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Celtic Christmas Music #94: Light a Candle in the Window

2026 FUNDRAISER FOR CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC

WELCOME TO CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

Celtic Music Magazine: Celtic Halloween Interview with Louise Bichan

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Slainte!

TELL A FRIEND

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #780: Celtic Halloween Interview with Louise Bichan

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

CELTIC PODFEST AND NERDY ARTS MARKET

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Pub Songs & Stories #319: The Dead Won’t Rest: Unquiet Grave and Binnorie-O

Celtic Christmas Music Podcast #93: Celtic Christmas Carols & Songs with Irish & Celtic Music Podcast

2026 FUNDRAISER FOR CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2023

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Celtic Music Magazine: Unquiet Spirits Arise

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Slainte!

TELL A FRIEND

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #779: Unquiet Spirits Arise

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

CELTIC PODFEST AND NERDY ARTS MARKET

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

Celtic Music Magazine: Ravens with a Celtic Heart

Céad Míle Fáilte

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC & CULTURE ONLINE?

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

Slainte!

TELL A FRIEND

Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #778: Ravens with a Celtic Heart

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

CELTIC PODFEST AND NERDY ARTS MARKET

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC
& CULTURE ONLINE?