Celtic band returns for Swan Valley concert

Celebrate an early St. Patty's Day with the internationally renowned Celtic band Men of Worth on Sunday, March 5, 3 pm at the Swan Valley Community Hall. A program of Alpine Artisans' 2 Valleys Stage, this duo will entertain and amuse. Tickets are available at the door: Adults $14, Seniors $12 and students are free. Refreshments will be served.

Men of Worth was formed by James Keigher (Ireland) and Donnie Macdonald (Scotland) in 1986. Both exiles, it was through the Celtic music scene in Southern California that James and Donnie first met, and within a couple of years, a partnership developed that was both simultaneously serious and fun.

Geographical changes now find James and Donnie living in Southern Oregon and Northern California respectively. Whilst remaining true to their Gaelic roots, Men of Worth have evolved as entertainers. Success breeds success, and a natural progression toward education and travel has sealed an exciting and pioneer era for the versatile duo.

Together, Men of Worth blend their voices with harmony and support their collection of songs with their varied selection of instruments. They have a very simple approach to their presentation, and in keeping with tradition, remain true to the music and story. Their show is a unique combination of humor, exciting tunes and soulful, heartfelt ballads. With twelve albums to their credit, Men of Worth continue the very tradition from which they have evolved.

Men of Worth are an international act, and have earned much respect and success in over 30 years of touring together. Cultural presentations in schools have received rave review by students and teachers alike, and they will be spending two days in our four local schools giving in-school concerts and workshops in each.

Donnie Macdonald comes from the Isle of Lewis, one of the Hebridean Islands off the west coast of Scotland. Writing tunes and original songs in both his first language, Gaelic, and in English, Donnie presents the music from his native Scotland with passion and humor. Donnie performs on vocals, octave mandolin, tenor banjo, concertina and bodhran

James Keigher comes from County Mayo in the west of Ireland. He is a singer, writer and collector of traditional and contemporary folk music. James was raised in Charlestown, a small rural community setting, steeped in traditional music and stories. He performs on vocals, guitar, mando-cello and bodhran.