Mary Black

There is a certain appreciation of Celtic music. There are usually television specials that feature traditional Celtic music on the Public Broadcasting Network here in the United States. It is unlike any other genre, and the culture behind it holds so much. Mary Black is one of these artists who can perform as a well-respected Celtic/ folk singer. She brings your attention to a culture that is so rich with history, which you are completely drawn in by the beauty of her voice. Watching her live performances is like being transported to another place and another time, a true cultural experience. The emotions emitted are somehow amplified with the clear pride that she has for her culture. When she performs a pianist, violinist and a mandolin player usually accompany her. In the background is usually a screen with images of historical Ireland. But she is not entirely limited to traditional Celtic music. Within her repertoire are folk songs that have been passed down in the Irish countryside. What is really a sight to see is when she performs “Song For Ireland” and you can see the people in the crowd become overwhelmed with their country pride. If you are like me and not Irish, you close your eyes and take in the sounds of Mary Black, combined with that of the people in the audience and you become closer to the experience than you could possibly have ever imagined.