Swannanoa 2008

Well, I signed up again for the Swannanoa Gathering Celtic Week, July 13-19, 2008. As usual, they have a wonderful teaching lineup, with Liz Carroll and Martin Hayes as the main attractions for Irish fiddlers. A very well known Irish musician and teacher told me privately that, although he has taught at most of the better known summer camps, Swannanoa wins hands down. He said that their accomodations and food are just outstanding, not to mention the wonderful energy of the campus and the amazing craic at the evening and late-night sessions. Here is a blurb from their website for this year's gathering:

"Celtic Week, July 13-19, will again run in our second week slot, with some exciting new faces and classes, including Patrick Street's fiddle and tenor banjo virtuoso, John Carty, and the return of Cape Breton fiddle taught by newcomer Kimberley Fraser. Although the staff is incomplete, we’re thrilled to welcome back the great Irish fiddlers Martin Hayes, Liz Carroll and Gerry O’Connor, Galway singer Sean Keane, powerhouse guitarist and singer John Doyle, Scottish fiddlers Pete Clark & Jamie Laval, Lúnasa flute player Kevin Crawford, uilleann piper Ivan Goff, Scottish folklorist Margaret Bennett, ex-Solas and Danu guitarist Donal Clancy, our Celtic Week Host, flute player John Skelton, Scots balladeer Jim Malcolm, Irish singer Aoife Clancy, mandolin/guitarist Eamon O'Leary, whistle player Kathleen Conneely, Scottish fiddler Jane MacMorran, harper Billy Jackson, bodhran player Stephanie Johnston Celtic fingerstyle guitarist Robin Bullock, Irish dance instructor Eileen Mulligan Evans and more."

As anyone can see, this is simply a treat for lovers of Celtic music.