
The Celtic Collective is a group of Irish musicians from across the US, many from Minnesota, who I gathered together to record my compositions based on the early life of St. Patrick, which accompany the audiobook and illustrated text called The Boy Patrick. It is the story of the young boy who became St. Patrick; his daring adventures as a slave in ancient Ireland, and his escape to freedom and his love of the Irish people.
What does the Boy Patrick story mean to you?
It's a story of courage, coming of age, the birth of compassion in the heart of a young boy, and the triumph over obstacles that seem insurmountable. It is an uplifting tale that resonates into the present day.
How did you decide to create a multimedia audiobook project based on the story?
The story balances the kind of revelry that is typical of St Patrick's day with the authentic facts about the life of St. Patrick, told in an entertaining way with the authentic instruments of Ireland's musical language. Our goal is to reinforce the celebration by offering some depth and insight for all ages to enjoy.
Who are the artists and musicians who worked on this project, and how did the collaborative process work between all of you?
We are lucky enough to include two veterans from Riverdance on the recording, namely Katie McMahon and Pat Mangan, who recorded harp and fiddle respectively. Among the Minnesota musicians we had Jode Dowling, Tom Klein, John McCormick and Amy Shaw. In San Diego we had Mairtin De Cogain recording Bodhran. We are lucky enough to live in an age where recordings can be sent back and forth online, thereby allowing Pat in New York and Mairtin in California to contribute to the project.
Anything else you would like to add?
It's been a great pleasure to collaborate with such fine musicians on a such a worthwhile project and we can't wait to share it with the world, starting in St. Paul on April 15.
THE CELTIC COLLECTIVE
THE BOY PATRICK AUDIOBOOK AND BOOK LAUNCH
This unique project is comprised of an audiobook telling the true adventures of the boy who grew to become St. Patrick, Ireland's patron saint. It is his true tale of capture, slavery, escape and determination against all odds.
The CD Audiobook also includes a musical soundtrack written and recorded by artists from Riverdance as well as local traditional Irish musicians. The full score is played on the authentic instruments of Ireland. It is accompanied by a fully illustrated read-along book, which also offers background to the musicians involved in the project plus the instruments used.
The event will include live music, excerpts from the book and projections of the illustrations. Performances scheduled throughout the day.