Cape Breton master fiddler Natalie MacMaster and her high-energy band storm into George Mason University’s Center of the Arts Sunday. Her wildly entertaining shows generate packed houses, stamping feet and clapping hands as her magical fiddle recaptures traditions that originated in the Scottish Hebrides centuries ago and segues into contemporary tunes evoking bluegrass, jazz and rock.
Married to Donnell Leahy of the popular Canadian band sporting his surname, she is expecting their second child in early summer and touring with 15-month-old Mary Frances in tow, thanks to caring relatives who babysit during shows. Free to spread the power of Celtic music from the stage, she fiddles with jaw-dropping passion and sets the hall on fire whenever she executes her step-dancing prowess.
“We try to create a show with up-to-the-minute music that’s energetic and touches everyone in the theater,” MacMaster says. “The best compliment I ever had came from a woman who told me she hates fiddle music but loved my show.
“We’ll definitely perform at least four tunes from ‘Yours Truly,’ my latest CD, some from older recordings, and some not yet recorded. Along with great traditional music, there will be some of my own compositions.”
MacMaster grew up in a musical family in picturesque Cape Breton, where most residents are steeped in the fiddling tradition passed down from Scottish ancestors. Her ten albums have captured many awards, including Best Female Artist of the Year and Best Roots/Traditional Solo Recording at Canada’s East Coast Music Awards in 2005. Two CDs landed on Billboard’s Top 20 Selling World Music charts, and four earned gold status in Canada.
IF YOU GO:
» Cape Breton Fiddler Natalie MacMaster in concert
When: 7 p.m. Sunday; a pre-performance discussion, free to ticket holders, begins at 6:15 p.m. on the Hall’s Grand Tier
Venue: George Mason University Center for the Arts, Fairfax
Tickets: $21 to $42 at 888-945-2468, or www.tickets.com
Info: www.gmu.edu/cfa
