Since its debut, global musical sensation Celtic Woman’s concerts continue to touch the hearts of a huge audience that spans the globe. Both an accomplished recording ensemble and a world-class performing collective, Celtic Woman celebrates Ireland’s rich musical and cultural heritage, while continuing its remarkable legacy of introducing some of Ireland’s most talented singers and musicians onto the world stage.
On Tuesday, April 16th, the Wharton Center will welcome Celtic Woman’s newest show, “Ancient Land,” which celebrates the group’s 13th studio album of the same name. East Lansing is one of almost 70 U.S. cities that are a part of this tour.
I interviewed Celtic Woman member Mairéad Carlin about the “Ancient Lands” tour, her musical roots, and her must-haves when traveling across the country and the world.
Stefanie Pohl: You’ve spoken about the presence of music during your childhood in Derry. Who would you say were your biggest musical influences growing up?
Mairéad Carlin: My dad was a professional bass player for most of his life so that definitely had a huge impact on the music I listened to as a kid. He was a big 60s fan- always playing The Byrds, The Beatles and acts like Sly and the Family Stone. He really molded my ear to good music. Although I still love all those bands now, over the years I’ve started to discover my own musical taste. I listen to music constantly – I never stop. From folk music artists like Laura Marling and The Staves to real rock ‘n roll acts like Band of Skulls. Good music is good music and I feel having a wider listening span can only help you grow as an artist.
Pohl: What were some of your earliest experiences of performing on stage?
Carlin: I started my first singing lesson at the age of four and my first competition at the age of five, so I have always been used to performing in front of large groups of people. My earlier professional experience in the industry came when I was 15 and won BBC Talent Young Singers competition. I got to record at Abbey Road for Sony Classical on Rachel Portman’s opera “The Little Prince.” That was the moment I realized this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
Pohl: Can you tell me about the new studio album “Ancient Land” and what it has been like to bring this new music on tour?
Carlin: It’s a very special album that was recorded in Peter Gabriel’s Real World studio in the U.K. It was an incredible experience recording it as we did most of it in the one room singing together with screens separating us. I think you can hear that connection through the music. It’s certainly the most earthy album we’ve ever recorded, and we really wanted to bring the music back to our roots. In all honesty, this is my favorite album we have ever done.
Pohl: How do you like spend your personal time when you’re on tour, and what are your must-haves when traveling?
Carlin: I work out a lot – it’s great for my mental well-being. I have my own little routine. I eat pineapple every morning as it’s a wonderful antiseptic for the voice *touch wood* I have never ever been sick on tour and I’ve been doing this for six years. We all like to spend time together when we can. We go to local restaurants, coffee shops, unwind with a little bit of shopping, write music together, and if the weather’s nice we go to the beach!
Pohl: What can fans expect from the show at the Wharton Center?
Carlin: It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that takes you on an uplifting journey through music, song, and dance. We’ve been receiving messages from fans who have been following Celtic Woman from the very beginning saying it’s their favourite show of all time – now that’s saying something! Ancient Land is a brand new show with new music and arrangements. It’s a real spectacle for the eyes and the ears; fabulous dancers, full band, bag pipes, amazing set and of course not forgetting the ballgowns. But also, for us the integrity of the group is as solid as ever and we, the four Celtic Woman feel so connected on and off stage. This is a great feeling. There’s a great deal of trust between us and we are the best of friends. I think this really translates in the show. Old fan favourites are back in with some new arrangements like “Orinoco Flow,” “Danny Boy,” and “Amazing Grace.” We just had to bring “Orinoco” back.
Pohl: What are three words you would use to describe the women of Celtic Woman?
Carlin: Honest, Grounded, Real.
Don’t miss the ladies of Celtic Woman when they arrive in East Lansing on April 16th at the Wharton Center. Click here for additional show and ticket information.