I confess I was a bit surprised when I came to Atlanta and couldn't find many Celtic musicians. Admittedly, I don't fit into most Irish sessions. A singer who plays autoharp just doesn't work great. Nevertheless, it's important to support our local communities. It strengthens the community and brings people together. That's even more important in this day and age. I'm thrilled to have multiple means to do just that. Today, we have The Reel Sisters.
But first, I want to remind you that my next album Selcouth comes out on February 14!
Did you say Scottish harp and smallpipes? Well…even if you didn’t, you should definitely check out The Reel Sisters if you enjoy Celtic music! This Atlanta-area pair showcases a family love of music that has created a unique bond between them.
Kelly and Rosalind are classically trained musicians that love nothing more than bringing forth traditional music from their chosen instruments. It’s Rosalind you’ll hear playing on the smallpipes, and she holds a BMUS from University of Iowa and a MM in Bassoon Performance from New England Conservatory. Her sister Kelly has a BMUS and a Masters Diploma in Harp Performance and Musicology from the University of North Wales, and is also a music teacher. Between the two of them there’s a lot of musical training, which provides such a solid foundation for the music that they make together.
The gentle combination of these two unique instruments make for a very interesting pairing in terms of sound. These young ladies offer a fresh style that is pleasant and engaging. Tracks such as “Pretty Saro / Invitation” and “The Fiddler / Portree Bay / Sound of Sleat” feature the duo making their music together, and sometimes singing together as well. Traditional Scottish music as well as Appalachian tracks are highlighted here (as well as others), and it makes their CD that much more enjoyable for the thoughtful variety of collected music they provide for the listener.
This CD is titled Beyond Measure, and it has an even 10 tracks on it. In addition to the vocals, harp, and smallpipes, you’ll also hear a bit of whistle tossed about here and there. It’s a live album too, so you’ll get to appreciate the skill and musicianship these ladies possess to be able to get things so right as they are recorded–singing and playing as they go. This is no small feat, but this pair of sisters makes it seem easy as pie—and they are sweet as can be to listen to!
Find more about Atlanta Celtic Music and Musicians.
Catherine L. Tully is a freelance writer and photographer who specializes in the arts. She has written for American Style and Classical Singer, among other magazines, and for the Celtic Music Magazine for nearly 15 years. You can reach her through her website at CatherineLTully.com.
