Mark your calendars and get ready for an uplifting experience with the Rogue World Ensemble in concert Friday, February 8th, 7 pm at Crater Performing Arts Center in Central Point and Sunday, February 10th, 4 pm at North Mountain Avenue Theater at Ashland High School. The program includes 20 different numbers, all with roots in Celtic and British traditions.

Over the years, the Ensemble has learned and performed songs from many different cultures, including a few with Celtic/British roots. We were inspired to plan an entire program focused on this musical tradition partly because of its diversity and beauty, partly by our access to traditional musical experts and culture-bearers who could teach us, and partly by the fact that so many Americans have some Celtic/British heritage in their ancestry, including many Ensemble members.

All performances in the concerts are pulled from deep in the Celtic music tradition. The Ensemble prefers songs that are connected to cultural roots. Often these have proven their durability and value through a long transmission process. And as in many cultures, music and dance are almost inseparable. Movement brings so much energy to the music! Several numbers incorporate dance with both members of the Ensemble and the Ashland Country Dancers (led by Brooke Friendly) – including a longsword dance and a border Morris dance with lively moves and colorful costumes.

While the songs and dances promise a fun evening, the purpose of the performance is not the music per se. The purpose is connecting – connecting with each other and with the culture – through the music. If the Ensemble did a perfect performance, aesthetically speaking, but it didn’t create real connection, it would not be a success. We pursue these cultural and musical paths of discovery with passion, as humble and grateful learners, and we strive to bring audiences with us on that journey. We know every culture has beautiful gifts to offer humanity, and if we can convey some of those, we have served our purpose.

The most-frequent feedback we receive from people post-concert is that they feel inspired. We think that shows people are having both a positive AND an energizing experience. We hope the experience inspires people to connect with each other and with artistic traditions of different cultures.