“a national treasure” – Wynton Marsalis
Three-time Grammy winning composer and fiddler Mark O’Connor has created several arrangements of Christmas classics. Here, he fashions a wondrous mixture of both instrumental and vocal music in bluegrass and other American music genres. The show features fresh takes on traditional songs with a few original compositions included. His renditions are playful and joyous, but can be strikingly earnest too. Mark’s touring ensemble includes his wife Maggie O’Connor on fiddle and vocals. Additionally, he will bring a variety of guest musicians on each tour.
Having toured An Appalachian Christmas nine consecutive years, O’Connor and his ensemble have a dynamic energy on stage. Then, they bring their individual expertise to holiday themes and classics in the most delightful and musically satisfying way!
“…the reason we were all there was Mark O’Connor, in all his lyrical perfection. There is no more aching line in contemporary American music than the melody in his Appalachia Waltz. Also, the joy of his mandolin duet with his son in Macedonia, a song Mark wrote years ago, was pure delight. O’Connor is a composer and arranger of the highest order, creating intriguing harmonies and rhythms in recognizable folk music.
He elevates a music with humble beginnings to impeccable elegance, creating a whole different category. While the instrumentation is traditional in country music, his deft treatment of the songs and choice of performers brings out unexpected elements. He’s more than a performer; he’s a suitor to the music, to the instruments, a passionate devotee of traditional forms and tools. And, his adoration is evident in every note he writes and every chord he plays.” by Meg Currell EDGE Media Network Contributor
Recommended for fans of Sam Bush, Yo-Yo Ma, Nickel Creek and Edgar Meyer.
