The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra for a lack of a better word has had a rocky start to the year. The ASO, like many other ensembles, found themselves in contractual disputes with upper management.
The season was in serious jeapordy.
The two sides were able to come to an agreement and now, the Georgia-based ensemble's season is in full flight. On Dec. 20, the ASO will combine in a Christmas Special with one of the most famous acts in the world Celtic Woman at the Symphony Hall.
The orchestra will be led by conductor John Page.
Celtic Woman is a musical group comprising of five Irish women with a repertoire that ranges from traditional Celtic tunes to modern songs. Current members include three vocalists Lisa Kelly, Chloë Agnew, Lisa Lambe and the violinist Máiréad Nesbitt. Deirdre Shannon sang with the group during Ní Mhaolchatha's pregnancy in 2005-2006. Hayley Westenra, a New Zealander of Irish descent, sang with the group during its 2006-2007 tour as its sixth member.
Méav Ní Mhaolchatha and órla Fallon were two of the original members of the group, though both have since left to pursue other projects.
In a recent performance in New York's Radio City Music Hall that featured Celtic Woman the New York Irish Arts website wrote.
"Everything about Celtic Woman is quintessentially Irish and female: from the ethereal choreography and lighting to the floaty costumes and long locks, plus songs evoking pining across the sea or, at least, the distance between two hearts. Celtic Woman represents more a received notion of Irishness than a lived one for someone Irish born-a tourist board conspiracy, some might contend."
Celtic Woman- Caledonia
