Vote For Máiréad in the IMA

Máiréad Nesbitt Nominated “Top Solo Performer in Concert” For Irish Music Award

I would like to congratulate Máiréad for her nomination in “Top Solo Performer in Concert,” Lynn and Lisa in "Best Female Vocalist" and Celtic Woman in “Top Traditional Performance Show” in the 2010 Irish Music Awards.

Máiréad has been nominated for the 2010 Irish Music Award “Top Solo Performer in Concert.” Last year she won “Top Fiddle” but a winner may not be nominated for the same category two years in a row. So this year fans nominated her for “Top Solo Performer in Concert.

VOTE NOW

This is one award where you, the fans, get to speak up and make your vote count.

How To Vote

All voting is done through the Irish Music Association Forum, so you must register on the forum to vote. There are two types of voting:

Free Members Voting - All Voting Ends On January 12, 2011

May only vote once per category

Log onto the Irish Music Association website
(Copy and paste link in your browser)
http://www.irishmusicawards.com/
In navigation menu, click Irish Music Association
Click the sign “Forum”
On the right side near the top, you will see where it says “register” Click that and follow instructions.
If you are already registered, go to next step
Under “Free Member” you will see a category “2010 Irish Music Awards Public Voting”
Open it and you will see all the categories
You may vote in each one by selecting the artist and click “submit’

Members Voting - All Voting Ends On January 12, 2011

You may vote with free members and again with paid members

Log onto the Irish Music Association website
(Copy and paste link in your browser)
http://www.irishmusicawards.com/
In navigation menu, click Irish Music Association
Click the sign “Forum”
Under “Paid Members Only” you will see a category “Paid Members Voting for 2010”
Open it and you will see all the categories
You may vote in each one by selecting the artist and click “submit’

How To Join

In navigation menu, click Irish Music Association
Click the sign “Join”
You have different levels of memberships, but you can join as a Patron for $15.00 and you will receive a free shirt or mug when you join.

Presentation:
When: January 26, 2011
Where: O’Malleys Pub in Weston, MO, USA.

All Voting Ends On January 12, 2011

Get your family and friends to vote

Máiréad Enjoying Australia's Wildlife

These are a few wonderful pics that Máiréad shared with us on Twitter. It sure does look like she is having such fun.

Australia Interviews

I will post interviews here as they are available. Copy and paste the links in your browser window

Celtic Woman talks with Jason Morrison - October 18
http://www.2gb.com/index2.php?option=com_newsmanager&task=view&id=7246&sms_ss=facebook&at_xt=4cbccd5bd8d2039c%2C0

Celtic Woman talks on U2e Newstalk - October 18
http://www.2ue.com.au/blogs/2ue-blog/celtic-woman-return-to-sydney/20101019-16rwa.html

Video Diaries
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ya5_nm0tOjk
http://sharing.theflip.com/session/748e4f370cd95057be152caff4a4ac48/video/22814021

Celtic Woman Releasing New CD

Hey everyone, Celtic Woman will be releasing a new CD called “Lullaby” which you can get through your local PBS telethons. Check your local PBS station to find out when it will be aired in your area. Help support these wonderful ladies and buy a copy for yourself and friends. This will make a wonderful Christmas present.

Copy and paste this link in your browser window for more information
http://www.celticwoman.com/

Máiréad Nesbitt Nominated “Top Solo Performer In Concert” for Irish Music Award

First, I would like to congratulate Máiréad for her recent nomination as “Top Solo Performer in Concert” in the 2010 Irish Music Awards. This is a title that she deserves as we all know that she goes above the norm of any performer and always gives her fans the best.

It is almost upon us again. Máiréad has been nominated for the 2010 Irish Music Award “Top Solo Performer in Concert.“ Last year she won “Top Fiddle” but a winner may not be nominated for the same category two years in a row. So this year we nominated her for “Top Solo Performer in Concert. These are only nominations, so nothing else needs to be done at this time.

I will post updates on Pixie Land
http://www.maireadnesbittpixieland.com/News.html

Oxfam Ireland Unwrapped

Every year Máiréad’s fans come together to help raise money for a worthy charity that she supports called Oxfam Ireland Unwrapped. There are a few weeks left so if you are interested, please go to this link to read more. Thank you

Copy and paste this in your browser
http://www.maireadnesbittpixieland.com/Oxfam-Ireland-Unwrapped.html

Máiréad Nesbitt, an untouchable artist!!

There are many fiddle players today and some are better than others. Of course, there is Máiréad Nesbitt, but along with her are Cora Smyth, Nollaig Casey, Natalie MacMaster and Jessie Burns. In my opinion, these are the top fiddle players in the world. I have had the honor to see Máiréad perform 13 times so far and Natalie and Jessie perform once. Now I think the ultimate show would be to see all five together. What a dream. I do not care where, I would travel for that show. I mean, come on, the five best fiddle players in the world come together for a one night show. I AM THERE!!

Not taking anything thing away from the others, but Máiréad is my true favorite. Guess that is why I have seen her 13 times and still counting. Just her alone, I have traveled from Ohio to New York, Texas, New Mexico, Virginia, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania. I will do it again next year.

But what is it about her that keeps her fans coming back for more? I would say that it involves many different qualities that seem to excel her above others.

Ever hear about multi-tasking? That is Máiréad. She does not just get on stage and play the fiddle. Máiréad has mastered it to a point that no one else can touch. It is like some of say we cannot chew gum and walk at the same time. Máiréad not only plays such flawless music, she does it while dancing about the stage. Chewing gum and walking at the same time? She did that while “learning” to walk. Now look at what she can do. Many artists are judged by their ability to play notes that sound good to our ears. I have heard a few compare her to Charlie Daniels. Are you serious? It should be a crime to mention her name in the same sentence as him.

Would you rather listen to someone play the fiddle who loves what they are doing or someone who just goes through the motions? When a person has love in their heart and they love what they do, than it flows through their daily functions. Máiréad has said before that she speaks through her fiddle. It is her way of communicating or her way of singing. What she does is not a job or a task. She has passion and that is what makes her music so unique.

So what makes her so different than others? Why have I chosen to support her by creating Pixie Land? Well, it is just the way her music has touched my soul and literally brought tears to my eyes because she has brought such peace within me. I love music and follow several artists, but no one has ever affected me like Máiréad. So creating Pixie Land is my way of saying thank you to Máiréad and to share with others what she has given to me. Máiréad is not only the best fiddle player, she is the greatest artist of all time. I mean that from the depth of my heart. When you believe in someone as much as I do for Máiréad and her music, than you want to tell the world!! In comes Pixie land!!

Celtic Woman Add Additional Date To Australia Tour

Celtic Woman are heading for Australia with such demand that an additional date was added to Melbourne. The Australian Girls Choir has also been added to several shows. Tickets are still available, so get them while they last.

http://www.mynewsletterbuilder.com/email/newsletter/1410479997

http://www.maireadnesbittpixieland.com/TOUR.html

Tour Coming To A Close

It is that time again when the United States tour is coming to a close. This Sunday is the last show before they head home for a short break. Than they head off to Australia for a six show tour. I hope everyone had a chance to catch a show this summer. Keep watching Pixie Land fansite for the 2011 tour dates. I will post them as they become available. I would also like to invite you to join Máiréad’s Fan Forum as we also keep up on dates as they become available. The link is at the right under Máiréad’s Sites.

Hope everyone likes the new look to my blog. I felt it needed a change.

Jimmy Hendrix Effect

This was taken in Bangor, Maine on July 28, 2010. When I saw this photo it immediately went on my desktop. Of course we know this is her finale when she is giving us her Jimmy Hendrix effect. We all remember it clearly.

Dublin Irish Festival - August 2010

Last weekend was the Dublin Irish Festival. There were many great artists and exhibits. I took many pictures and videos and you can check them out at this link.

Copy and paste this link

http://www.maireadnesbittpixieland.com/Dublin-Irish-Festival.html

Philadelphia: Just Keeps Getting Better

It is always an experience riding a bus to a show because each time it is a little different. But I do wish Amtrak would come through Columbus because I would use it. I start off my weekend by heading to the station two hours early. After I am there I find out the bus broke down in Indiana and is now two hours behind. So my two hour wait now turned into four hours. I am beginning to have second thoughts about my student discounts on Greyhound. Is it really worth it?

When I arrive In Philadelphia, Mike is already waiting at my hotel for me. Time is very critical because we planned to head out and listen to the sound check. My lateness into the city did not help matters at all. When we do connect up, we quickly head towards the venue and was very pleased that we were not late. Everyone else is already there so we engage is some small talk as we wait to hear what the ladies will be singing at the sound check. I see no reason to cover the songs since Mike already did in his review, but I must say that it sounded beautiful to me.

After about an hour we head over to Olive Garden to meet up with Kelly and the others. I have Mike drop me off at the hotel because I have yet to clean up after the long bus ride. The Olive Garden is only a few blocks from the hotel so I tell him to go on over and I can walk over. I clean up and gather all my things that I need for the show because I did not plan to return to the hotel after dinner. I make it to the Olive Garden and all eyes are on me. I just had to make the joke that it seems like everyone is waiting on me today. They already placed their order and I quickly get mine in. Not real hungry so I order stuffed mushrooms and a salad.

As I am talking to Annie, I discover that she was the one I was talking with at my second show in Cleveland in the spring of 2009. This was also the very first time I met Máiréad. I knew she looked familiar but was not sure where I have seen her. At this time I knew nothing about the forums or any forums members. I talk to her for awhile and than listen to Kimberly (KAJ) as she tells me about some of the movies she has seen. I could tell that Kimberly was very excited about meeting Chloë. Very happy that she got her wish later that night.

It is now time to head off to the Mann Center. We arrive a little early so I head over to will call to get my ticket. Did not want to take the chance of our great postal service losing them so will call was the best option. The others head on into the theatre and I soon follow. This is my first time at the Mann Center and I notice that the pavilion is larger than Bethel Woods so if it rains the ladies will stay dry.

First thing I do is locate my seat. Not the best seat in the house but not bad either. I had a new shirt made and this one was bright yellow. Earlier when I was coming in, one of the staff members comments about my shirt. On the back is my favorite pic of Máiréad that she signed the week before in Bethel Woods (the one I have as my avatar and also use for Pixie Land). So I knew I would stand out. I talk to the couple next to me for a few minutes and than get up to find the others. My phone rings. Dave calls to see what is going on. I talk with him for a few minutes as I am searching for the others. Seems like we all got separated because I did run into other members and they were also searching. I give up and head back to my seat.

I again start talking to the couple next to me and this is their first CW show. I soon realize that they have not seen SFTH DVD at all because she continues to talk about the castle. So I bring them up to date on their new releases and explain to them about Powerscourt. They ask me how many shows I have attended and I tell them that this is my 13 show. She goes, “you’re like a deadhead than?” Hey, it works for me. I have been called a groupie and deadhead many times. I enjoy following the ladies at their shows and would attend more if I could. Will never catch up with Scott and Mike, but I am very pleased with what I have and cherish each and every moment.

Before the show I informed those around me that I clap and stand a lot so be prepared. They did not mind and told me to have fun. That I intended to do. But what was great is at intermission I quickly moved down to front row two seats over from Mike. Now I had the best seat in the house.

Again, I am not going to go through every song, but will touch on a few. Each show Chloë seems to always bring a smile to me with some of the little things she does. When she finished “When You Believe,’ she did this little kick with her leg along with a cute giggle before she turned around to leave the stage. I do love the version of “My Heart Was Home Again’ with Lisa and Lynn, but I do not think I can ever hear this song again without seeing Alex performing it. Lisa and Lynn both have such beautiful voices and I love all their songs and have favorites with them. But this song will hold a special part in my heart with Alex.

I heard something on “You Raise Me Up’ from Lynn that I never heard before. She hit a high note that had such a beautiful sound to it. I know I would have caught this in the past because it did stand out and sounded so, so perfect.

I am so amazed with Máiréad. I still cannot figure out how she can move and dance while playing such flawless music. That is what excels her above all other musicians. If you are sitting center stage, watching her is like watching a tennis match because your head will continue to move left to right and back again. She never ceases to amaze me and how talented and diversified she really is. You just have to love her!

I was waiting for Orinoco Flow once again because the new harmony is so beautiful. It is a four part harmony where the first three are done individually by Lisa, Chloë than Lynn. The fourth part is all three. Now here is something that blew me away. Later that night at the M&G I spoke with Chloë about the change to Orinoco Flow. She told me that one day they were just messing around and did that. It was NOT planned at all. They liked it and decided to use it. I told her that we love it and to leave it in. So it goes to show that things happen that were not even planned. Great work ladies.

The M&G was large tonight and we did our usual of hanging out to the end. We wait patiently to hear who we get and as Máiréad and Chloë’s names are mentioned, the crowd went wild. Seriously though, we would love all four because each one is special and unique in their own way. We were happy for Kimberly because now she gets to see Chloë and we were also hoping for Máiréad. I am just a few people behind Kimberly and she was very eager to get up to the table. When she makes it, we stand out of the way so she can have her time to talk to Chloë. It was so nice.

After a few minutes the line starts to move again but we give Kimberly her time with Chloë. When I get to the table I move past Chloë and head over to Máiréad. I tried to make sure I did not forget anything this time. We chat about a few things and I ask her about the crystal fiddle I gave her in the spring. Never saw her in the spring so did not have a chance to follow up. She loved it. She has it at home in a glass case. I try to find things that I think she will like and I am pleased that she likes it. We again talk about Pixie Land and I give her some Máiréad cards and Pixie Land cards for her and the girls. I’ll tell you, it is hard to pull away from her because she makes me feel so relaxed when I talk to her. And I can tell she is very sincere in all she says.

I move back over to Chloë and her beautiful eyes just look up at me as we start talking. This is where I mention Orinoco Flow and learn of the new harmony. I chat with her for a few minutes and again, she makes it hard to pull away. But I know it is time to move on and I shake their hands once again and tell them I will see them in Albuquerque.

I was so worked up after this M&G because I felt that it went so beautifully. Many fans got their dream and for myself, this may have been my second favorite M&G. Of course, my first was in Columbus last year as I had my first M&G with Máiréad. That one will always hold a special part in my heart.

Now I wait for my next show in Albuquerque. I will be there both nights and looking forward to it. I am trying to use my creative side and “make’ something special for Máiréad that I know she will love.

Recent Concert Photos

Saratoga (SPAC) July 26, 2010

Bangor, Maine July 28, 2010

Bethel Woods - July 24, 2010

After a very interesting ride in, Dave picked me up at the station and as always, I find it very interesting to meet other forum members. We chat for a bit as we head off to my hotel. It was three hours before check in and just wanted to see if I could check in early. Was informed they are getting the rooms together and to come back in 30 minutes. Kelly (Scuilly) and her husband Christopher come down stairs and we have another great first time meeting. We decide to get something small to eat so we head next door to what may be the only diner in this small town.

I love salads so thought I would get a taco salad and that would hold me over until our tail gate party at Bethel Woods. A few minutes later we get our meals and sitting before me was the biggest salad I have seen. There goes my small snack. It was very good but could not eat it all. Chris had a burger and fries and that even filled his plate. The prices were reasonable and the portions were not small here. Was not hard to leave full. Goes to show that these country restaurants still believe in providing a hefty meal for a great price. After the show we all met up again and eat at the only diner in town. Everyone’s plate had the hungry man’s portion.

We head back to the hotel so I can check in and clean up for the show. Sitting in the lobby waiting for Scott and Mike to arrive, we go through our photos for the night’s show and I show everyone the small porcelain boxes I got for Máiréad and Kelly shows us these cute little animals she got for each of the girls. I know the girls get swamped with gifts over a tour and I know I am guilty as one of those who takes part in overloading Máiréad with gifts. No good with graphics or poems, so I try to search for a gift that she may like. For myself, it is just my way to say thank you for all she has given her fans.

Dave saves the best for last. He pulls out his beautiful and thoughtful project that he has been working on the last several months. As many know, he has taken all the reviews from the spring shows and combined them into a book to give to each lady. This is what I mean by providing such a thoughtful gift. Not only did he put a lot of time into each book, each one looked professionally done. I know the ladies would love their gift.

After Mike and Scott arrive and we chat a bit, we head off to the venue about 3:00 to try and catch any interviews conducted with Thunder 102 and hope to spend some time going through the grounds that held the biggest and most notable music event in the history of America. We take our cameras and head on in. After snapping a few pictures, we head out back in hopes of hearing a sound check. This was just a small treat of what we are about to experience in a few hours. Some was a little hard to hear because the venue was also playing music through their patio speakers, but we managed to hear some beautiful music going on down there.

We have some idle chat and watch the carts move about and soon see a cart pull up with two women sitting backwards on the cart. I quickly notice blonde hair up in a ponytail and as they stand up I see Máiréad and Lynn move on inside with expressions on their face of enjoyment. Later that night Lynn even mentioned that she was born in the wrong time.

No one is hungry after we each tried to eat small for lunch, but we all know how that turned out. So we purchase a ticket and move on to the museum. Let me tell you, well worth the money paid for admission. Such a great volume of information by audio, video and so many tangible items from the 60’s. I stood there just gazing at the 45’s (that is a small record with one track on each side, for those who may not know what it is). I was only nine years old in 1969 but I grew up listening to many of these artists and was deeply amazed with how much was in this museum.

As I move about I did notice that the choir was also in there. I am standing in the bus watching a video and after I leave someone asked me if I knew who was standing right behind me. Oh yea, I knew. That is why my heart was racing.

About time for the show so we head back to the cars and drop off our cameras and collect our things for the M&G. Dave and I each had two seats for this show. Of course, he had second row center and of my two, the best one was section three about seven rows back just a bit to the left of center. Not bad and had great view of the ladies. Kelly had a seat right next to me so we quickly get involved with a couple next to us. This was their first show in two years and they just got the SFTH DVD, so they knew nothing of this show. They did not even know about Alex. Well, we quickly got them up to date and prepared them for a show of their life. Kelly ran over and got a “Fiddler Crossing” sign from Mike to give to them. They were just in heaven with the sign.

The show started and Kelly and I did our best to keep those in our area clapping. Maybe it was meant for us to be spread out in this show. Gives us more chances to talk to new fans and share information with them.

Not sure why they took Lynn out of Goodnight My Angel but was still a beautiful song. Another of my true favorites.

Fields Of Gold is such a beautiful song when performed by Lisa. I may have been the only one who gave her a standing ovation, but she deserves it.

My Heart Was Home Again was performed by Lynn and Lisa. They really did a wonderful performance but I have to admit something. Two songs tonight brought tears to my eyes. This was one of them (the other was Amazing Grace). When I was listening, I watched Alex performing this. Though it was Lynn and Lisa on stage, I watched Alex on stage. My memories of Alex took control and I once again saw Alex on stage singing. It was so touching and emotional for me.

Now I am glad that I refused to read reviews until my first show this summer. I did not want to know how the changes were made without Alex and wanted to be surprised. I thought I could deal with it better. Anyway, I am glad I did that. I am sitting here listening to Orinoco Flow and all the sudden this four part harmony comes up. WOW, I just about lost it. On top of that, Kelly is next to me hitting me so I knew it blew her away too. I am not in no way minimizing any other part of tonight’s show, but this was the best part of the show. I wanted to hit replay and hear it again. Cannot wait for Philly. Seriously everyone, This change was totally Angels singing from above. Not reading reviews provided me with a surprise that I remembered all night.

During the intermission we discover that three seats are empty next to Dave so Kelly, Chris and I quickly take them over. Still did a lot of yelling and after I left the show I noticed my throat was a little sore from all the yelling that I was doing. Well worth it.

A few things really stood out in this show. Each girl seemed like they had this extra burst of energy and it blew me away. Lynn was fabulous on the stage. Seriously, she was so full of smiles tonight. Do not get me wrong, she is always full of smiles, but there was just something different tonight in her smiles. She already has such a beautiful smile, but I am not sure how to explain it. It is like the ghosts from Woodstock were once again on stage through these ladies.

I will admit that I was not sure how to react to tonight’s show. As it got closer I really started to miss Alex even more and even spoke to Dave about it. Alex will always be missed and I still got to see her perform tonight through the wonderful memories I have of her. It just goes to show that these ladies are so talented and each one has that special and unique gift that they will always keep us wanting more. That is just one of the qualities that makes us keep coming back for more.

Máiréad and Lynn, Máiréad and Lynn, Máiréad and Lynn. That is what I kept telling myself over and over. Than Rachel walks in and announces that Máiréad and Lynn will be at the M&G. YES! I have yet to meet Lynn and wanted so much to meet her. I pull out my items for the girls, including my IOH items to have Lynn sign. I make my way around to the table and start talking to Máiréad. I talk about Tinkerbell and than I talk to her about Pixie Land. I show her the little porcelain boxes that I got her. There are seven boxes with each letter of her first name. After I bought them I tried to paint the accents on the A and E, but it looked so tacky that I wiped it off. Not sure how long I was talking to her but I glance over at Lynn and she is waiting patiently for me. I again brought the line to a stop. Sorry everyone. As I move over they both comment about my Alex button. She will always be part of CW.

I get to Lynn and I think I took my stupid pills. Here I am finally getting a chance to talk to her and I waste it talking about how I have missed her at the M&G. What was wrong with me? I wanted to talk to her about her love for animals since I am also an animal activist. But did I? No, I did not. After we talked a bit she asked me where I was from and I told her Ohio. She was so sweet as she told me to be careful on the streets. Seriously, I think each of these ladies have been blessed with so much compassion for others.

I finally move on because I again was holding up the line. These ladies make us feel so welcome that time just never crosses our mind because we feel such comfort as we talk to them. But I still forget things.

Tonight’s show was full of energy and as we the fans continued to show our appreciation, it seemed like all four ladies just returned with even more love. Though there were many small changes, the impact on me was an overwhelming warmth on my soul. Truly a spectacular show!!

Philly, here I come.

Songs From The Heart Summer Tour Underway

The summer tour has started in Canada and they will return to the states on the 23rd. of this month. It is really hard to believe that this is their sixth year touring in the states, the first was in 2005 when they promoted their first DVD which was recorded at The Helix in the fall of 2004.

I hope everyone has a chance to make a show this summer as you will find nothing else that touches your heart as the ladies. Máiréad and each one of these talented performers loves to interact with the fans. Though I was told they can only see out a few rows because of the lights, you will see many smiles and a lot of eye contact. It is not uncommon for them to look right at you and smile. Even Máiréad with all her dancing and moving about the stage even finds it in her heart to look at each fan and provide them with the most welcoming smile.

I have my first show for the summer in Bethel Woods and will post my review to share with others. If anyone has a review of a show that they would like me to post, send me an email and I will post it for you.

pixie.land@yahoo.com

New Pixie Land fansite

Hello Máiréad fans. I have a few things to update on so let me get started. First, I recently built a new “Pixie Land” site. The reason for this is because the hosting site I originally was on was very limited. Check out the new site and I think you will like it better. Add Pixie Land to your favorite list and continue to check up because I will not only post new information but I will keep all older stuff too. The new site is:

http://www.maireadnesbittpixieland.com/

You will also see at the right and also on Pixie Land that I have five sites that I use to share with fans about Máiréad’s career.

Fansite
http://www.maireadnesbittpixieland.com/
Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=186194221569
Blog
http://www.rick60.blogspot.com/
YouTube Channel
http://www.youtube.com/user/TheRick1960?feature=mhw4
Twitter
http://twitter.com/_PIXIELAND

As we know, the ladies are currently in Australia doing promos for their fall tour in October and November. I have many videos and adding more on Pixie Land. You may find it here:

http://www.maireadnesbittpixieland.com/Australia-Tour.html

The summer tour in the U.S. starts next month and many have already reserved seats. If you plan to attend and have not yet got your tickets, I would not wait too long. Tickets go fast.

As many know, Máiréad’s forum holds a Máiréadfest every tour. This year it will be in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Take part of this and show your support for Máiréad. If you have not joined her forum, go to this link and sign up today.

http://maireadforum.com/forum/index.php

Have a safe summer and hope to see you down the road. Until then, keep sharing Máiréad with others.

Alex, We Will Miss You

I am going to side track for a moment because this is something that is important to share with you. Wednesday was a sad day for many. We received the news that Alex is taking a break to spend time with her family. She will be dearly missed. With her angelic voice and passion to sing, I know we will see her again down the road. I, for one, will continue to follow her career. I am not just a Celtic Woman fan but also an Alex Sharpe fan. Best wishes to you Alex and you will always be in my prayers.

Máiréad on Ron and Don Show

Check out the recording of Máiréad on the Ron and Don Show yesterday. There is only audio since she was not live in the studio. I would have no problem listening to her play for three hours. Actually I have listened to her play for more than three hours before. Her music is just that great!! To get past all the other stuff, move ahead to 31:00 minutes.

http://www.mynorthwest.com/?nid=577&a=17306

Spring Tour About Over - SUMMER IS COMING

Well there are only nine shows left on this tour. It has been a long road and these ladies deserve a break. As much as we love them, they need their rest and time with family.

Summer tour opens July 12th. in St. John, New Brunswick. So if you were not able to attend a spring show, you still have the summer. See the link on the right for Songs From The Heart tour dates.

Máiréad Nesbitt and Cora Smyth

I really enjoy all of Máiréad’s music. She is a highly talented lady and perfects all she does. The first video is “Strings Of Fire” and the second video is “Celtic Violin Dueling.”

PIXIE LAND Fan Site

PIXIE LAND fan site is now going. It is just a way to show honor for all that Máiréad has done for her fans. I did include a guestbook if anyone wants to leave a comment, but it will be monitored daily. I will delete anything that is inappropriate. So check it out and pass the link along to others.

http://maireadnesbittpixieland.weebly.com/

Máiréad - HAPPY BIRTHDAY

I would like to wish you a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY. Enjoy the warm Florida weather and celebrate this day, for it is the day the world was given an Angel from above.

My Favorite Photos Of Máiréad

2009 Irish Music Association Winners

Congratulations to Máiréad and Celtic Woman for their 2009 Irish Music Association Awards

Máiréad won “Top Fiddle” with 49% of votes. She defeated Liz Carroll (25%), Martin Hayes (15%) and Natalie MacMasters (12%).

Celtic Woman won “Top Group” with 48% of votes. They defeated The Chieftains (28%), Gaelic Storm (19%) and The Wolfe Tones (6%).

"TOP FIDDLE"

"TOP GROUP"

“THE BEST OF THE BEST“

"VOICES OF ANGELS”

Máiréad Received Her IMA Award

Last night Bob Reeder presented Máiréad and the Celtic Woman with their Irish Music Association awards. Máiréad won "Top Fiddle" in January, a title well deserved. A video and photos of the persentation will be posted on the IMA website soon. I will post links as soon as they are on the site.

Some Of My Autographed Pictures

Thought I would share some of my items that Máiréad has autographed for me. Of course I cannot show everything because I do have many items. If you look further down at another post you will see the "Fiddler Crossing" jacket that I am wearing. I also have that signed, she signed my Máiréad teddy bear that I got from Lisa Kelly's Fan Club store and other things. Before i go to a show I will save some photos that are my favorites and make copies to take to the show. These here are some of my favorites. But let's be honest, Máiréad cannot take a bad photo.


I just love this expression. This photo ranks up in my top five favorite photos.

The paper you see at the corner of this photo was my very first autograph from Máiréad.

The card you see with this photo is something I had made up at KINKOS. It has her website and forum address on it. The back side includes a few facts about her. When I talk to people I give them a card so they can learn more about her. And believe me, I love to share Máiréad and her music with everyone.

Photos From My Shows

Thought I would share photos from a few of my shows. I like to take my camera so I can get pictures of the other fans and the venues. The first photo was from my second show in Cleveland from 2009. Playhouse Square in Cleveland makes up several theatres in a small area. Last year I saw them at the Palace Theatre, which is the last one in the photo. This year I saw them at the State Theatre, which is the one at the front of the picture.

The next picture is from Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. This is also from the Isle Of Hope tour and I was the only one at this show from Máiréad’s forum. I still had my Fiddler Crossing sign and was in the front row. There was no meet and greet at this show.

These two photos are from the Isle Of Hope show in Columbus, Ohio. The gentleman in the photo with me is Scott. Mike (Mr. Peabody) is the one snapping the photo. I love that jacket and had to show it off. What made it great was the Fiddler Crossing sign on it.


This was my second from last Isle Of Hope show in El Paso, Texas. From left to right is Glenn (Rotten Rebel), Scott (Moscapoet), Tony (ALCAN1), Mike (MrPeabody) and myself. Again, all of us just had to show off our jackets. My last show was Albuquerque, New Mexico the next day. Máiréad signed my jacket so now I have it put away. It is now priceless.

This is my first Songs from The Heart show in Roanoke, Virginia. I was there for the first three nights. The addition of Anthony was perfect. He comes out in the lobby after the show and I had the chance to get this photo. Not a bad picture for a camera phone.



So far I have a total of 11 shows. Seven are from the Isle Of Hope and four from Songs From the Heart. I was honored to talk to Máiréad at every meet and greet from last year. I cannot ask for anything better than that. And let me tell ya, she is so sweet and kind.

Wish I was able to attend more shows this spring, but I will make sure I go to some in the extended tour. Their music is too beautiful to wait.

Autograph Signing at Radio City on 3/13/09

A Show So Perfect - Cleveland

I envy Mike and all the shows he has attended. Unless I hit the lottery, I will never have that many shows under my belt. But I do my best to attend as many as I can. If I was able, I would attend every show of the tour. Celtic Woman have a special place in my heart and they are worth watching them perform one more time. This was my 11th. Celtic Woman show, the 4th. for Songs From The Heart.

I started my day with John (starman) as he picked me up when he came through Columbus on his way to Cleveland. It was a nice day for traveling and I know the ladies have to be glad that winter is behind them. But when we left Columbus it was warm. Not so in Cleveland. I grew up by the lake and it does get colder with the cold Canadian wind coming off it. Never thought of checking the weather because it was a lot cooler. We got to Cleveland about 3:30 and checked into the Wyndham, the same hotel the ladies were staying at. Though I did not see them, I would have respected their privacy if I did see them.

The venue was only a few hundred yards from the hotel so that was very convenient. Of course I always wear one of my special made Máiréad shirts. I plan to have a few new ones made for my next show.



One thing I like to do at every show is talk to others. I started with the couple next to me. He told me the first time they heard of Celtic Woman was when they were on Dancing With Stars. Most people I talk to say they found them on PBS, so this was the first with Dancing With Stars. He told me that they really love the Celtic Woman and that this was their first show. I went into explaining how much of a treat they are going to experience. The videos are great, but nothing beats a live performance.

I also make a point to look around and see how things look. The theatre was full. If there were any empty seats, I could not see any. This is what I like to see. I know my very first show in Columbus last spring was a sell out. While waiting in the lobby, I heard a few people get turned away who were inquiring about tickets. Ohio cannot get enough of Celtic Woman.

Though there were some faces I did not recognize, I did see many I knew. Between Máiréad’s forum and Celtic Woman Forum, we had the first five rows. With all of us, I knew we could not only let the girls know that we love them and our stronger numbers would help motivate the audience.

About that time the lights went down and of course, you know the rest. It is time for Máiréad to enter for her part on Níl Sé'n Lá and I hear something that I have not heard on the three previous shows. The audience breaks out in a large applause during the song.

Going through song by song seems repetitious, but I will mention my favorites. I have said it before and I will say it again, I have never heard anything so beautiful as Lisa‘s version of Fields Of Gold. She can turn water into wine as she puts her heart into this song. I become so mesmerized that I become totally oblivious to everything around me.

Isle Of Hope, Isle Of Tears is my favorite group song. This song has so much meaning behind it and one can truly feel the depths of this song through each word. I am pleased that they kept it for this tour and would like it to remain for future tours.

Many fans are split with Alex’s solos, but I still favor You’ll Be In My Heart. I have heard the version by Phil Collins and he has nothing on Alex. I admit that prior to Celtic Woman I listened to a lot of rock and some country. Celtic Woman has changed my preference for music, but it is the ladies, not the songs. Many of the songs performed by Celtic Woman touch my soul because of their voices. You’ll Be In My Heart is one example. Only Alex can sing this song with beauty like a rainbow.

I want to briefly touch on what I mentioned in the above paragraph. Since I became a Celtic Woman fan, I have checked out many of their songs by other performers. I have to admit that the other performers do not stand up to my standards. I hope I say this correctly so everyone understands, but the reason I love the Celtic Woman is because they can take underrated songs and turn them into a masterpiece, That is something no one else can do. If the Celtic Woman sing it, than I know before I even hear it that it will be perfect. Their voices are just that good.

Another example is When You Believe. Chloë performs this song with such a high quality that is flawless. One thing I love about Chloë’s voice is that it is soft and yet she has the ability to hit any note with perfection. She hits that high note like it is nothing to her. Mariah and Whitney, step back because Chloë Agnew does this like no other.

I fell for Lynn’s voice the very first time I heard it. When she sings My Lagan Love I just do not know how to explain how so beautiful she sounds. I have one word that I believe describes Lynn as she sings My Lagan Love and that is Angelic. She just blows me away with a sound of an angel singing from Heaven.

And now my lovely Máiréad. Can I really pick a favorite? Each of her songs has a special part that exhibits Máiréad’s exceptional talent with her fiddle and the way she speaks through it. I love the way she can make the bow burn as she hits notes with lightening speed, but I find a real love for her slow songs. When she opens with You Raise Me Up and throughout the song, I love to look at her eyes. I have found that Máiréad speaks not only with her fiddle, but also with her eyes. When she plays it is like she is carefully listening to each note and it shows through her eyes.

During the intermission the couple next to me got up and I just thought they were stretching their legs. Throughout the first session, I continued to hear them talking. Found that to be disrespectful. I got up and went over to talk to Mike and Thomas. I asked him if he counted the 13 spins. Of course, I knew he would not have missed them. When I sat back down I started to talk to the ladies seated behind me. They wanted to know where I got my shirt with Máiréad on it. I informed them that I have my shirts made by a local business. We than proceeded to talk about the girls. They did not know all the names so I explained who each was. Just as the second session was about to start a new couple came and sat down next to me. I briefly got to speak to the lady and she told me the other couple left. I found that to be odd. She told me that she is an Irish dancer and she was very vocal and active all through the second half. After the show I got to speak to her a little more and she said they switched with the other couple. Well, they got the better deal because the best seats are near the stage. I gave her one of my cards with Máiréad’s information and told her to check out her website and forum.

After the show I went to meet some more people. I introduced myself to Rich Ropes and his son. Spent time talking to a few others while waiting for the meet and greet. I thought this was an excellent show and thought each lady was very active with the fans. As always, many smiles and looks. Starman and I were in the 5th row, but I would not say we went unnoticed. We got some looks and many smiles. I think one reason we got some looks was because we were standing out. It did bother me that many fans in rows 2 - 4 stood very little. I do not mean that no one stood, because there were some, but it was clear enough that the ladies had clear view of us in the fifth row.

I love all five ladies and I cherish seeing each one. I was hoping for Máiréad because I wanted to see how she liked the crystal fiddle I gave her in Roanoke. I wanted Lynn to come out because she is the only one I have not seen. I still have IOH stuff for her to sign. Plus, I want to meet Lynn. She is so sweet and I just want to see her. But after Mike got down with his little show, I made it to Alex and Chloë. To very nice and lovely ladies. But as always, I forget what I want to say and end up talking about something else.

I really take it hard after the shows. My CW withdrawal sets in every time, but usually does not hit hard until the following morning. These ladies are five of the most talented and sweet people on this planet and their shows really touch the depth of my soul. It is hard to end something so beautiful. I will attend a few of the extended tour shows, at any cost.

2010 IMA Nominations

It is time to nominate Máiréad for the 2010 Irish Music Association award again. I plan to push hard on this just like last year. But Máiréad cannot be nominated for "Top Fiddle" this year because the rules state that winners cannot be nominated in the same category. That stinks. So since I believe that Máiréad is Top Fiddle, I will not nominate anyone for that category. I would be fooling myself to think anyone else is as good as Máiréad. But I did nominate her for "Top Performeer in Concert."

Changing Blog

I have decided to redo this blog and change many things. After that, I will be promoting it to bring in Mairead fans

Changed FB Group Name

I changed the name of the face book group I have for Mairead. It is now called PIXIE LAND because I feel it fits her better.

Next month is my last show for this spring. It is not known if they will return in the fall, but I really hope they do. I do not want to wait a whole year to see them again. That is way too long.

IMA Presentation

I have been working with Bob Reeder, IMA Director, hoping to arrange the presentation of Mairead's award in St. Louis on March 30. It would be nice to see this happen. The Celtic Woman will also receive their award on this date. These ladies earned these awards and it would be great to know they have been presented to them.

Working on my FB group for Mairead. I think it will be a lot better than the way I have it now. My goal is to create a fan site for her. It will be much more in depth than the FB group, so I want her to say it is alright first. I respect Mairead and think that is fair.

Songs From The Heart tour has begun.

I had the opportunity to see the first three shows in Roanoke. I must say that they were the best I have seen so far. These wonderful ladies just blew me away with their beautiful voices. Máiréad, as always was electrifying. I cannot get over how great she is on stage and in person. When I listen to her all my worries go away. This is my review that I wrote on her forum.

My writing skills are not the best, but thought I would just write a short version of my experience in Roanoke. I always know how I feel, but not the best in expressing it in words.

I had the great honor to sit before these wonderful ladies once again. That almost never happened if it was not for the kind heart of a friend and forum member. Thank again Mike. You made another dream come true. I am just going to touch on the show and the after show.

I now have ten shows under my belt. Each one is as exciting as the other. I sit there on the edge of my seat scanning the stage and looking at how it was designed. I already knew we would not open with Mairead and The Sky and The Dawn and The Sun. That is one of my favorites and I believe it is a perfect choice to open a show. Mairead will always have her majestic beauty in my mind of those times when she would open and appear as a silhouette in the rising cloud. My first night I am sitting next to Jason and we are just waiting impatiently (like anyone could have patience for this) for the lights to go down and Mairead to enter with The Call. Of course, now we know that The Call was not the opening song. But I do like the way they opened it. The Sky and The Dawn and The Sun opens slowly as Mairead’s image moves across the stage in the dark. Same tonight. The ladies enter with candles and I could see their images move across the stage with grace and beauty. They continued to keep that image. Different song, but still just as beautiful.

Each show had something to offer. No two shows will be the same. It does not take long for the ladies to see us sitting down in the front. One thing that I love about these talented artists are the way they interact with the fans. Not many performers do that and that is just one of the several reasons they excel above others.

Anyone can tell that Lynn is a perfect choice for the Celtic Woman. Thank you David! She is very shy but she is getting better. Last year Lynn would look out into the audience, but mostly in the distance. Very little eye contact for those in the front row. I already noticed at the first three shows that Lynn is better with those in the front row. Just wish I could get her at a M&G.

Alex is one of those that I just fell for her voice and show performance immediately. Her new song, “My Heart was Home Again,” is so beautiful. Another perfect addition to the Celtic woman.

Chloe has grown so much over the last few years. I just love to watch her on stage. She is so perky and think it is so cute to watch her jump and skip about the stage. Her voice is so soft yet very powerful. I enjoy watching her sing. She hits the high note in “When You Believe,” perfectly. Just like Lisa on “The Voice,” Chloe takes her stand and gives it her all. I love it!

Lisa, oh Lisa. So many perfect solos. Her two new additions of “The Moon’s a Harsh Mistress” and “Fields Of Gold” are just, well, it is Lisa and I do not really know how to explain how beautiful her voice is.

I admit that I do not know a lot about Irish music. I also do not know a lot of Irish performers. But so far I have seen eight exceptionally talented women from Ireland that possess talent with a heart of love and compassion. When I talk to others about the Celtic Woman, one of the things that I mention is that they are down to earth ladies.

But I am a Mairead fan and I do not mean to undercut the other four fabulous ladies because I believe in my heart that all five are a critical part of this group and each one is just as important as the next.

Mairead just makes me MELT!!! I love instrumental music but never listened to a fiddle player much. In walks Mairead. She is just so interactive and watching her play “Coast Of Galicia” and “Granuaile’s Dance while at the same time giving us fans her unlimited expressions of smiles and eye contacts. I would sit and watch her move back and forth across the edge of the stage making sure she acknowledges each and every fan. Very pleased with the decision to play both of these songs in this tour.

“Mo Ghile Mear” is another of my favorites. I like the changes they made. Mairead of course does her part still, but I like the addition of everyone else being included. This is a true finale. Everyone throughout the show is given their own part in the finale. Great addition. I Love It.

Anthony is also an asset to the group. First of all, I love the sound of the bagpipes. Walking down the center isle on Amazing Grace really added to the song. This gave Anthony his own entrance for the song and it let him stand out as a critical part of the song. Again, love it.

I was all built up for the M&G. My heart sank when I heard Mairaed would not be at the M&G. But I will not complain. Every M&G I have had has had Mairead. I have been blessed. I bought Mairead a crystal fiddle and was upset that I could not give it to her, but I knew that it would still make it to her.

But any of the lovely five is a blessing to me. Chloe is so sweet and I just love her. I did have the chance to meet her last fall. But I got a new one. Have yet to meet Lisa (and Lynn, come on down). I was very, very excited to meet Lisa. Lisa is always full of smiles and she is no different now. Don’t get me wrong, Chloe is also a model of beautiful smiles.

I finally get to the table and some lady just steps in my way and decides to fix the curtain around the table. Come on lady, at least say excuse me. When I start to talk to these wonderful ladies I am in awe, as always. I planned to ask them about an old song that is in my top five favorites, “The Soft Goodbye.” I learned that night that Chloe, Lisa and Lynn have also preformed that song. I did not know that. I hope it is on tape somewhere and does surface. Lynn is a perfect addition for the song.

I still get a little carried away on the autographs, but I think I plan to tone that down. I would like to spend more time talking with these great ladies.

Songs From The Heart is a beautiful show and those three nights will always be part of my life.

But the three days in Roanoke had so many great moments. I got to meet new friends, such as John, Thomas, Jim, Don, Scott (all 3) and Jason. But I also got to see some that I met last year such as Scott (MP), Mike, Scott and Cindy (and they are a perfect couple), Dwight, and Dave. Thank you for a great time.

I learned a lot this week. Jim, Don, Dave and myself spent some time at the mall and sat in the lobby many times talking about the forum and the ladies. I learned so much from them. Each morning I would go down and try to use the hotel’s very slow computers. I would see Dave and we would have some great conversations. Thank you Dave.

I did not want the last night to end. I was not ready to go back to the hotel because I knew that would be it. So I joined Scott, Mike and Jason at Fridays. We sat there until 1:30am. I sat there and listened to Scott and Mike’s stories and found them to be very interesting. The time came when we called it a night.

So what really is CW Withdrawal? Well, I think it needs to be labeled as a real term cuz It does exist. The Celtic Woman have such beautiful sounds and if someone listens to them and not smile and at the same time break at tear, well than something is wrong. They do it to me all the time. Prior to seeing my first show I just had an internal drive or hunger to see them live. Got that chance last year. When I left that first show, the CW Withdrawal hit me and it hit me hard. I was in tears. Why, because I just left a show of five of the most beautiful and talented women and I did not want it to end. I am serious when I say that for the next three days I was not able to bring myself back up.

As I continued to see shows, I still got it but I would talk myself into realizing that I will see them again.

But something happened in Roanoke. These three shows touched me more than ever before. Prior to the third show I was already feeling the effect of CW Withdrawal. I knew what was coming. I enjoyed the last show, but deep down I was already hurting cuz this was it. I new I would see them again in a month, but this time I could not bring myself out of it.

This time it hit me harder than it did after my first show and I do not know why. This is why I did not want to go back to the hotel. Going with Scott. Mike and Jason helped me deal with it. When they dropped me off I was really down.

What happened this week that changed everything and made me feel worse than before, was my love and respect for these ladies. I have been a big fan since the first time I saw them. I am not sure how to explain it, but Roanoke hit me and gave me a double dose of CW Withdrawal. To me, these three shows are the best I have seen and my eyes opened even wider and I really saw and heard how truly wonderful Mairead, Lisa, Chloe, Alex and Lynn really are. It may sound a little crazy, but not to me. The Celtic Woman are in my heart, the best and I want to listen to them forever. That is why I think it hit me really hard this time. I did not want it to end.

Now I will wait impatiently for Cleveland. I am not sure I can deal with that show ending. If they do not return in the fall, it will be a whole year to wait. OH NO!

Something that I really enjoy at each show is the choreography. I find as much enjoyment watching the ladies move about the stage as I do hearing them sing. For example, the way they circled around to the top of the steps on Orinoco Flow and took one step at a time as the descended to Ray and Nick’s part. Same as isle Of Hope and so many more. Even Lisa as she rotates around while singing Fields Of Gold. It is just some very beautiful work they put together to give us the best.

It has been awahile since my last post. I was not sure if I was going to continue my blog for Máiréad since I started a face book group for her. I will continue this blog provided I can bring more Máiréad fans on board. I did make some changes and hope it is for the better.