(Photo: Colin Gillen)
Dervish, acclaimed as one of the biggest names in Irish music internationally, will perform at Berea College’s Stephenson Memorial concert on Thursday Mar. 14 at 8 p.m. in Phelps Stokes Chapel.
Described as “an icon of Irish music” by the BBC and “the most soulful Irish traditional folk band playing today,” by Irish journalist and broadcaster Stuart Bailie, Dervish has played at festivals from Rio to Glastonbury. They come to Berea just in time to set the mood for St. Patrick’s Day.
Frequently performing to sold-out shows in the U. S., Dervish’s fan base reaches across Asia, Europe, and South America. During its 29-year career, Dervish has inspired many notable musicians, writers and artists including Nobel Prize-winning poet, W.B Yeats.
Current members of Dervish include Shane Mitchell on accordion, Liam Kelly on flute/whistle, Brian McDonagh on mandolin, Michael Holmes on bouzouki, Ireland Fiddle Champion Tom Morrow and singer and bodhran (drum) player Cathy Jordan. Together they create an electrifying sound that has captured the hearts and ears of so many.
Renowned for their live performances, which match dazzling tune sets with stunning interpretations of traditional songs, their recorded albums—13 to date—make up an extensive catalogue of Irish music.
In 2004, Dervish was given the Freedom of Sligo City award in a civic reception. This award is the highest honor given in their city and was even given to W.B Yeats. All six members of Dervish are steeped in the musical traditions of counties Sligo and Leitrim in northwest Ireland, noted for its Atlantic coastline, storied mountains and rural landscapes.
Berea’s convocation events, which are provided to both the campus and public communities, are a significant part of a student’s educational experience at Berea College. Visit the Convocation website for the schedule of all convocations this academic year. All convocations are free and open to the public.