Hi Everyone
Hello from deepest Missouri!
I am planning the next month and thought I would let you know where we are and what is happening as I have had a few emails.
So....the past 4 weeks have been quite a wild ride. We have been looking at what we filmed in San Bernardino and to be honest I am simply blown away by how good the show is. Sephira and De Dannan are simply brilliant. The choir and orchestra sound fantastic, the audience are gorgeous lookin and I am ....well....a little over-emotional as you will see once it is released. The team at Mindfox have been doing a great job editing to remove all of my stupid mistakes and making it all look pristine. Steve Skinner has been mixing it and it will be coming at you in surround sound which really makes a huge difference.
To get picked up for distribution by PBS National is something we really hadn't expected and indeed it happens to VERY FEW specials filmed for public TV. The next step is to announce our launch station which will happen in the coming week. I head to the PBS conference in Orlando next month to meet all the stations from around the country with our PBS guru Gustavo Sagastume from International Media. I will then start planning those station visits around the country during summer/fall pledges.
Now everyone is asking about the tour. We will start announcing plans for a large spring 2012 tour soon. I am VERY excited about the details of that and cant wait to announce who we are working with.So, I ask your patience. Putting together a big tour involves so many moving parts and I guess the whole thing is growing faster than we realised so we are playing catch up.
Our first big PBS related tour dates however happen at Christmas. I am heading to San Francisco for a residency at the Marine's Memorial Theater for 18 dates starting Dec 13. Tickets will be available very soon. The team connected to the theater are AMAZING. The artists coming up there include Linda Eder and Glee's Darren Criss There are very exciting events happening attached to that including a spot singing at the Giants game in August. I spent a month in San Fran 10 years ago with Riverdance and it was a very special time in my life with my visiting family and friends. To get to go back to the same town with my own show in a renowned San Francisco theater is just thrilling and makes me grateful beyond belief. It will be a very big Christmas show with a BIG cast. How lucky I am!
So recording news....the cd and dvd of Beyond Celtic does not have a release date quite yet but as soon as we are allowed, I will announce our record company. I have wanted to work with this company for years. I spoke to several labels and noone excited me like these guys.
For now, I head home to Chicago to start planning...then it's Ireland for my mam's 70th birthday and some well deserved pints of Guinness.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Haiti
I am sitting in my hotel room after my first trip to Haiti in ages. I have stayed away for too long.
I arrived a few days ago at the airport to the usual chaos that is Port Au Prince, a noisy city that seems to sound like a banging drum and crashing cymbal all day, a vibrant slice of life at its rawest. What I expected to see was what I always knew of the town, arriving with an overconfident air of someone who has, as he thought, seen and done it all. I love Port Au Prince. I always have. I have always had a sense of belonging once I land. What I found this time however, was not what I expected, unfortunately.
The city was literally floored by the earthquake over a year ago. At the time, 1. 5 million lost their homes. 15 months later 680,000 are still displaced, living in temporary shelters scattered across the city with the most basic services. I was shocked by the sights , sounds and smell of those camps. I was speechless and supressed tears seeing babies with barely a ragged shirt on them, sleeping in the mud outside the door of their tiny excuse for a tent, a piece of sheet plastic covering them topped with a torn blanket. It is something that I will always hold in my mind. It will change me forever.
The buildings of the city vary from houses that were rough shod to being with, now crumbling on one side to high rise buildings completely collapsed on themselves that are now essentially tombs for thousands of nameless bodies. The empty spaces that are left are sites for mass graves. The parliament building, a ramshackle excuse for a palace but the shining symbol of leadership in the country is folded on itself and completely useless. The city's cathedral now looks no different to an ancient roman site and holds hundreds of bodies inside. A blind man in that roofless church was singing in creole. "welcome to the foreigners who come to help us".
The most vulnerable of this fragile society were left without health services, clinics, nutrition units, schools, access to food and clean water. Families were left without mothers , fathers, children.
I came to Haiti with the absolute knowledge that Concern, already a dynamic force in Haiti for 16 years now would be ready for what the earthquake brought to them. However I was not prepared for the show of force displayed by the great group of people. What I found was a very organised, system in place dealing hands on with the emergency and planning with locals to build a better future in a way that was sustainable, long term, motivated and above all full of optimism. They shine a light for the future and better still is helping Haiti build it's own future.
In the temporary shelter camps built and managed by Concern there was a huge focus to Water, Sanitation and Health. There was permanent structures built to ensure provision of clean water, showers, latrines, sterilization units, education in disease prevention, the importance of hand washing and supervised help by skilled and caring engineers leading teams of locals who were putting their own organised systems in place to ensure a disease free future. Incidence of cholera is down.
I saw a mother and baby unit run by Concern within the general hospital catering to undernourished babies. The unit had 18 babies this week. Nearly all the babies had nutritional deficiencies, complicating conditions like HIV and presented with low weight / age ratio when they arrived. It was obvious to see the new arrivals who were so thin and frail in comparison to babies who were strong , robust, content and playing. These kids had obviously spent some months in the unit and were strong and ready to get home. The joy in that tent was tangible. Mother's were delighted to have happy and healthy children again.
I went to a temporary learning center managed by Concern. The school had over 300 kids all of whom lost their place to learn when the earth quake flattened schools across the city. It was a thrill to be in classes and see the joy in those kids lives being able to learn and play together. We sang songs and danced. Really i am child at heart so it made me happiest man in Haiti. The kids not only learn the basics of French, Creole Math but are also educated in disease prevention and sanitation, skills that will help them reduce disease in the future.
I was approached by 2 teenage guys to ask if I could find them a job. Both were eloquent and respectful to a fault, presenting a strong case in their hope that I could get them work. It broke my heart. There is simply not enough work for them and the only way to get that step up in education would be through Concern's help. Concern's Cash for Work schemes built in to all their services are a way, not only to earn money but to build esteem and interest in building a brighter future.
I had heard about a new residential development on the outskirts of the city that was managed by Concern. I remembered that after the earthquake Concern had sourced a large meadow and brought in engineers to essentially build a new town for people who had lost their homes. I was astounded by the rows of really lovely new houses with gardens, indivually decorated providing not only secure shelter but dignity. Built to order depending on the size of the family and built with the input of the family involved, these shelters offered hope for the future for people who have lived in tents for the past year. The homes are built using cement with wooden framing. All the labor is local and that local labor is heavily invested in building their own new community. The men and women involved in this project are a credit to Concern.
Overall I cannot believe what Concern has achieved in the past year. The team , already there for the long haul has increased in size dramatically both in International and local staff but the spirit remains the same. Fr. Aengus Finucane would be so proud of everyone . I know I certainly was. I am proud to be part of the Concern team and will continue to urge you to learn about what is going on in the world, learn about issues of poverty, learn about Concern. The more you know and talk about it, the less of a problem poverty will be.
I arrived a few days ago at the airport to the usual chaos that is Port Au Prince, a noisy city that seems to sound like a banging drum and crashing cymbal all day, a vibrant slice of life at its rawest. What I expected to see was what I always knew of the town, arriving with an overconfident air of someone who has, as he thought, seen and done it all. I love Port Au Prince. I always have. I have always had a sense of belonging once I land. What I found this time however, was not what I expected, unfortunately.
The city was literally floored by the earthquake over a year ago. At the time, 1. 5 million lost their homes. 15 months later 680,000 are still displaced, living in temporary shelters scattered across the city with the most basic services. I was shocked by the sights , sounds and smell of those camps. I was speechless and supressed tears seeing babies with barely a ragged shirt on them, sleeping in the mud outside the door of their tiny excuse for a tent, a piece of sheet plastic covering them topped with a torn blanket. It is something that I will always hold in my mind. It will change me forever.
The buildings of the city vary from houses that were rough shod to being with, now crumbling on one side to high rise buildings completely collapsed on themselves that are now essentially tombs for thousands of nameless bodies. The empty spaces that are left are sites for mass graves. The parliament building, a ramshackle excuse for a palace but the shining symbol of leadership in the country is folded on itself and completely useless. The city's cathedral now looks no different to an ancient roman site and holds hundreds of bodies inside. A blind man in that roofless church was singing in creole. "welcome to the foreigners who come to help us".
The most vulnerable of this fragile society were left without health services, clinics, nutrition units, schools, access to food and clean water. Families were left without mothers , fathers, children.
I came to Haiti with the absolute knowledge that Concern, already a dynamic force in Haiti for 16 years now would be ready for what the earthquake brought to them. However I was not prepared for the show of force displayed by the great group of people. What I found was a very organised, system in place dealing hands on with the emergency and planning with locals to build a better future in a way that was sustainable, long term, motivated and above all full of optimism. They shine a light for the future and better still is helping Haiti build it's own future.
In the temporary shelter camps built and managed by Concern there was a huge focus to Water, Sanitation and Health. There was permanent structures built to ensure provision of clean water, showers, latrines, sterilization units, education in disease prevention, the importance of hand washing and supervised help by skilled and caring engineers leading teams of locals who were putting their own organised systems in place to ensure a disease free future. Incidence of cholera is down.
I saw a mother and baby unit run by Concern within the general hospital catering to undernourished babies. The unit had 18 babies this week. Nearly all the babies had nutritional deficiencies, complicating conditions like HIV and presented with low weight / age ratio when they arrived. It was obvious to see the new arrivals who were so thin and frail in comparison to babies who were strong , robust, content and playing. These kids had obviously spent some months in the unit and were strong and ready to get home. The joy in that tent was tangible. Mother's were delighted to have happy and healthy children again.
I went to a temporary learning center managed by Concern. The school had over 300 kids all of whom lost their place to learn when the earth quake flattened schools across the city. It was a thrill to be in classes and see the joy in those kids lives being able to learn and play together. We sang songs and danced. Really i am child at heart so it made me happiest man in Haiti. The kids not only learn the basics of French, Creole Math but are also educated in disease prevention and sanitation, skills that will help them reduce disease in the future.
I was approached by 2 teenage guys to ask if I could find them a job. Both were eloquent and respectful to a fault, presenting a strong case in their hope that I could get them work. It broke my heart. There is simply not enough work for them and the only way to get that step up in education would be through Concern's help. Concern's Cash for Work schemes built in to all their services are a way, not only to earn money but to build esteem and interest in building a brighter future.
I had heard about a new residential development on the outskirts of the city that was managed by Concern. I remembered that after the earthquake Concern had sourced a large meadow and brought in engineers to essentially build a new town for people who had lost their homes. I was astounded by the rows of really lovely new houses with gardens, indivually decorated providing not only secure shelter but dignity. Built to order depending on the size of the family and built with the input of the family involved, these shelters offered hope for the future for people who have lived in tents for the past year. The homes are built using cement with wooden framing. All the labor is local and that local labor is heavily invested in building their own new community. The men and women involved in this project are a credit to Concern.
Overall I cannot believe what Concern has achieved in the past year. The team , already there for the long haul has increased in size dramatically both in International and local staff but the spirit remains the same. Fr. Aengus Finucane would be so proud of everyone . I know I certainly was. I am proud to be part of the Concern team and will continue to urge you to learn about what is going on in the world, learn about issues of poverty, learn about Concern. The more you know and talk about it, the less of a problem poverty will be.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Poem from a fan
Got this from a lovely fan who took the time to write it. The support of the fans this week was second to none.
Michael's Poem
Close your eyes, open your heart
Feel the warmth of the song.
His melodies charm you
And you're hooked before long.
javascript:void(0)
A journey of music
Our hearts reached by a touch
Led by this voice
He gives us so much.
A voice full of patience
and caring and love.
His songs strong, yet gentle
A gift from above.
Listen and you will hear
The unexpected you will find
The voice and the music
Swirl around in your mind.
A Celt through and through
A treat to hear him sing
Travel through his music
See what joy he will bring.
Michael's Poem
Close your eyes, open your heart
Feel the warmth of the song.
His melodies charm you
And you're hooked before long.
javascript:void(0)
A journey of music
Our hearts reached by a touch
Led by this voice
He gives us so much.
A voice full of patience
and caring and love.
His songs strong, yet gentle
A gift from above.
Listen and you will hear
The unexpected you will find
The voice and the music
Swirl around in your mind.
A Celt through and through
A treat to hear him sing
Travel through his music
See what joy he will bring.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Calm Before the Storm!
Hello Everyone
3 weeks to go and all seems to be in order. I feel really good about everything and surprisingly calm. I just decided a few weeks ago to let it all go and focus on being a decent singer for the show. We have been recording vocals and instrumental tracks in Steve Skinners studio. He is simply a wonder and has the temperament that is perfect for any artist. He is so focused and logical in his approach whereas I am ALL OVER THE PLACE! I guess it is a good pairing.
Our new songs have really come together nicely. In a PBS recording you need to have people recognise most of the songs but I wanted to add a few for the dvd that will make people sit up and listen and say "what is that?". One song I am particularly excited about called All My Life involves a collaboration with Sephira who play so beautifully. Yes.....I will look like an old geezer singing with them but I think it will be fine. I am also thrilled with the opener as it mixes my singing with dancers. I have 4 dancers from my Celtic Fire show. Rachael, Owen and of course my sidekicks Logan and Claire. It is so important for me to have the musicians and dancers i love involved in this. You don't find too much loyalty in our business so when you find gems, you keep them. Also in the mix is Mellad, David and Jeremy from An Dochas...of course!
So I went to get fitted for the clothes I am wearing this week. I am not used to being measured to within an inch of my life but it was less painful than I thought it would be. It will certainly make an impact but at the same time I will feel very comfortable. Now all I have to do is not pack on the pounds.....it will be fitted, to say the least!
This weekend begins March madness and I head up to Spokane and Idaho Falls
I get to hang with my band and dancers up there. I love being with them as I sap up their enthusiasm as soon as they walk into a theater. Sales have been very strong and I think the PBS connection probably helps considerably.
We have added more dates for this year including July 23 with the Lancaster Symphony and some dates in South Carolina in October which should extend my summer a bit.
Mindfox Productions have been such a help over the past few weeks getting everything in order for March 18 so a big shoutout to them. Led by Dr. Travis Fox and Brenda Markstein the team are so driven and focused. I am hitching a ride on that enthusiasm and it is making the whole experience from start to finish, very positive.
Make sure to check out De Dannan and Sephira as they have tour dates through March across North America. They of course stop by in San Bernardino to play for the special.
Thanks so much to everyone for all the notes you are sending . I really treasure them. I am amazed that people are travelling cross country to attend the recording. It is astounding. Hopefully I get to hang out with you. There is a plan for a bit of a do in LA the night after.
Big Love
M
3 weeks to go and all seems to be in order. I feel really good about everything and surprisingly calm. I just decided a few weeks ago to let it all go and focus on being a decent singer for the show. We have been recording vocals and instrumental tracks in Steve Skinners studio. He is simply a wonder and has the temperament that is perfect for any artist. He is so focused and logical in his approach whereas I am ALL OVER THE PLACE! I guess it is a good pairing.
Our new songs have really come together nicely. In a PBS recording you need to have people recognise most of the songs but I wanted to add a few for the dvd that will make people sit up and listen and say "what is that?". One song I am particularly excited about called All My Life involves a collaboration with Sephira who play so beautifully. Yes.....I will look like an old geezer singing with them but I think it will be fine. I am also thrilled with the opener as it mixes my singing with dancers. I have 4 dancers from my Celtic Fire show. Rachael, Owen and of course my sidekicks Logan and Claire. It is so important for me to have the musicians and dancers i love involved in this. You don't find too much loyalty in our business so when you find gems, you keep them. Also in the mix is Mellad, David and Jeremy from An Dochas...of course!
So I went to get fitted for the clothes I am wearing this week. I am not used to being measured to within an inch of my life but it was less painful than I thought it would be. It will certainly make an impact but at the same time I will feel very comfortable. Now all I have to do is not pack on the pounds.....it will be fitted, to say the least!
This weekend begins March madness and I head up to Spokane and Idaho Falls
I get to hang with my band and dancers up there. I love being with them as I sap up their enthusiasm as soon as they walk into a theater. Sales have been very strong and I think the PBS connection probably helps considerably.
We have added more dates for this year including July 23 with the Lancaster Symphony and some dates in South Carolina in October which should extend my summer a bit.
Mindfox Productions have been such a help over the past few weeks getting everything in order for March 18 so a big shoutout to them. Led by Dr. Travis Fox and Brenda Markstein the team are so driven and focused. I am hitching a ride on that enthusiasm and it is making the whole experience from start to finish, very positive.
Make sure to check out De Dannan and Sephira as they have tour dates through March across North America. They of course stop by in San Bernardino to play for the special.
Thanks so much to everyone for all the notes you are sending . I really treasure them. I am amazed that people are travelling cross country to attend the recording. It is astounding. Hopefully I get to hang out with you. There is a plan for a bit of a do in LA the night after.
Big Love
M
Sunday, February 13, 2011
5 weeks to go
So I am back home in Chicago after a month of running around the country and a quick trip back to Ireland to say hello for a few days as I haven't a hope of getting home now until June at least.
I was in LA finalising the PBS show and what a show it will be. The exciting news is that the city of San Bernardino is building a 2 day Irish Festival around the theater on the day before the taping(st paddys day) and the day of the show itself. They will have parades, a spirit of Ireland contest, a Danny Boy singing contest, Irish bands, pipers and bands. Should be fun and hopefully we will get some of those fun people dressed up in their green regalia to come in to the show.
I was in the studio last week getting new songs recorded to have for the album accompanying the PBS show.We have some new crossover classical numbers, new covers and really cool opening song involving me and my dancers from Celtic Fire.
The orchestra seems to be getting bigger everytime I turn around but we need a big sound. We will have about 22 I think so that should sound really nice. AT the piano will be my MD and producer Steve Skinner. At the baton conducting will be my touring pianist and keys player Peter Storms. I've asked a few of my singing friends to be part of my backing vocalists(he said thinking of the party after!)
I had some meetings last week to plan the release of the album and have come to an agreement with a top Entertainment Company TBA. ONCE I SIGN, you will be the first to know. We certainly have some exciting plans to keep me busy.
So I was delighted to get an offer of 18 dates at the Marines Memorial Theater in downtown San Francisco in December. It means spending the holidays in sunny California but I am cool with that. Working again in Union Square district is certainly an exciting prospect. The theater holds about 700 and we have 18 nights to fill the place so I will be heading out a lot this year to promote. Again....I have no problems with promoting in San Francisco. I already have a list of restaurants I want to go to, not to mention my old haunt Casey's from my Riverdance days!!!!
I have been blessed this year so far. Everything seems to be falling into place for the special. I have the best team working on it. We had our first production meeting about 2 weeks ago and meeting everyone at the theater was ....overwhelming. I was speechless when I walked in to the beautiful space and seeing all the creatives turn to say hello. I was praying noone would ask my opinion as I felt completely overwhelmed that all these tv professionals were there for me. I turned into an awkward 12 year old afraid to talk. It came out alright. My agent and the producers kept it all moving and I just pretended I knew what everyone was talking about.
The theater is so beautiful. Showtime use it a lot for their stand up comedy specials.
I cannot wait for you to hear the new ballad I co-wrote called All My Life. It is the best thing we have put down in the studio I believe. We have a new opening song called Brand New World involving the dancers.We have also decided to add a song recorded by one of my major influences, Mary Black. It is not an obvious song choice for me but we wanted to spice it up a bit and this came to mind. I've also blended 2 songs from the 40s to add a touch of class...call it a classic mash up, if you will.....
I will perform one song with De Dannan and another with Sephira.
Still trying to figure out what to wear but dont worry, it wont be a kilt. We are talking suit....i think.
So 5 weeks to go.....and much to do......more news very soon!
M
I was in LA finalising the PBS show and what a show it will be. The exciting news is that the city of San Bernardino is building a 2 day Irish Festival around the theater on the day before the taping(st paddys day) and the day of the show itself. They will have parades, a spirit of Ireland contest, a Danny Boy singing contest, Irish bands, pipers and bands. Should be fun and hopefully we will get some of those fun people dressed up in their green regalia to come in to the show.
I was in the studio last week getting new songs recorded to have for the album accompanying the PBS show.We have some new crossover classical numbers, new covers and really cool opening song involving me and my dancers from Celtic Fire.
The orchestra seems to be getting bigger everytime I turn around but we need a big sound. We will have about 22 I think so that should sound really nice. AT the piano will be my MD and producer Steve Skinner. At the baton conducting will be my touring pianist and keys player Peter Storms. I've asked a few of my singing friends to be part of my backing vocalists(he said thinking of the party after!)
I had some meetings last week to plan the release of the album and have come to an agreement with a top Entertainment Company TBA. ONCE I SIGN, you will be the first to know. We certainly have some exciting plans to keep me busy.
So I was delighted to get an offer of 18 dates at the Marines Memorial Theater in downtown San Francisco in December. It means spending the holidays in sunny California but I am cool with that. Working again in Union Square district is certainly an exciting prospect. The theater holds about 700 and we have 18 nights to fill the place so I will be heading out a lot this year to promote. Again....I have no problems with promoting in San Francisco. I already have a list of restaurants I want to go to, not to mention my old haunt Casey's from my Riverdance days!!!!
I have been blessed this year so far. Everything seems to be falling into place for the special. I have the best team working on it. We had our first production meeting about 2 weeks ago and meeting everyone at the theater was ....overwhelming. I was speechless when I walked in to the beautiful space and seeing all the creatives turn to say hello. I was praying noone would ask my opinion as I felt completely overwhelmed that all these tv professionals were there for me. I turned into an awkward 12 year old afraid to talk. It came out alright. My agent and the producers kept it all moving and I just pretended I knew what everyone was talking about.
The theater is so beautiful. Showtime use it a lot for their stand up comedy specials.
I cannot wait for you to hear the new ballad I co-wrote called All My Life. It is the best thing we have put down in the studio I believe. We have a new opening song called Brand New World involving the dancers.We have also decided to add a song recorded by one of my major influences, Mary Black. It is not an obvious song choice for me but we wanted to spice it up a bit and this came to mind. I've also blended 2 songs from the 40s to add a touch of class...call it a classic mash up, if you will.....
I will perform one song with De Dannan and another with Sephira.
Still trying to figure out what to wear but dont worry, it wont be a kilt. We are talking suit....i think.
So 5 weeks to go.....and much to do......more news very soon!
M
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Quick Review
So it is the end of 2010 and it is time to evaluate.I guess i've done it before but for some reason it is all the more important now. I am the definition of a rolling stone, never gathering moss,good nor bad, the stuff that catches on to you while not noticing. I dont ever notice what is good or bad. I am consumed with the moving forward, not quite ambition as the need to make change, not wanting to ever be famous but to be great, to change lives, to be the fullest and the best I can be.
This year,in my family life, social life and career I have made leaps. I realised how much I loved the leaping and not quite reaching the goals. That is the secret for me.
I have the career I always wanted. I have more live dates than anyone could want, I have a family life despite being in entertainment and I have been offered things I always wanted a shot at.
I was excited to be offered my own PBS special. I am thrilled but realistic. I know what is involved and have watched many fail in presenting a concert film to the public. I have the best of people around so i think it will be great fun and a huge success. I am however lucky to have reached an age where it doesnt matter a huge amount to me if it doesnt shake the earth. I am so excited by the project. People who know will know that I love having a project.
I gained a green card, much to my delight. I am to a degree half an American. I love having my feet in both countries and will continue to when I go for my citizenship...i need to be able to vote. Irish people are political by their very nature.
I found this year that fans were just fantastic. They wrote lovely letters, cards and sent presents. There was a few times involving hotel stalking that was unusual to say the least but I guess it comes with the job. I am grateful to everyone for the love and the support.
To everyone who came out for the tours, thank you. The Holiday tour is always my favorite as it is a smaller band and just 7 of us take to the road. It is always an adventure but always the best laugh. I love my band on and off stage so we have the best time and I think it shows. There were a few gigs I didnt want to end. Billings was really fun as was Santa Rosa with the big troupe. On that tour in March we went out with 17 and this coming spring we head out with 19 starting with sold out shows in Florida in January......now that is something to look forward to.
If anyone wants so be in the audience for the PBS special let me know. I will get your name down. March 18, The California Theater, San Bernardino, CA. So far the designer John Casey and director Mark Lucas are coming up with a plan. Producers, Mindfox are dynamic as you would imagine. Lots of excitement but lots to do.
Before I go I just want to say how grateful I am to you people who log on every day, to people who send encouraging emails, to everyone who helps spread the word. I am so very grateful to you for doing that and think about it every day. I hope you hvae that kind of love in your life.
So 2011 is going to be great. I hope it brings good things to you too. For now though, have a happy christmas. Nollaig Shona Love Michael
This year,in my family life, social life and career I have made leaps. I realised how much I loved the leaping and not quite reaching the goals. That is the secret for me.
I have the career I always wanted. I have more live dates than anyone could want, I have a family life despite being in entertainment and I have been offered things I always wanted a shot at.
I was excited to be offered my own PBS special. I am thrilled but realistic. I know what is involved and have watched many fail in presenting a concert film to the public. I have the best of people around so i think it will be great fun and a huge success. I am however lucky to have reached an age where it doesnt matter a huge amount to me if it doesnt shake the earth. I am so excited by the project. People who know will know that I love having a project.
I gained a green card, much to my delight. I am to a degree half an American. I love having my feet in both countries and will continue to when I go for my citizenship...i need to be able to vote. Irish people are political by their very nature.
I found this year that fans were just fantastic. They wrote lovely letters, cards and sent presents. There was a few times involving hotel stalking that was unusual to say the least but I guess it comes with the job. I am grateful to everyone for the love and the support.
To everyone who came out for the tours, thank you. The Holiday tour is always my favorite as it is a smaller band and just 7 of us take to the road. It is always an adventure but always the best laugh. I love my band on and off stage so we have the best time and I think it shows. There were a few gigs I didnt want to end. Billings was really fun as was Santa Rosa with the big troupe. On that tour in March we went out with 17 and this coming spring we head out with 19 starting with sold out shows in Florida in January......now that is something to look forward to.
If anyone wants so be in the audience for the PBS special let me know. I will get your name down. March 18, The California Theater, San Bernardino, CA. So far the designer John Casey and director Mark Lucas are coming up with a plan. Producers, Mindfox are dynamic as you would imagine. Lots of excitement but lots to do.
Before I go I just want to say how grateful I am to you people who log on every day, to people who send encouraging emails, to everyone who helps spread the word. I am so very grateful to you for doing that and think about it every day. I hope you hvae that kind of love in your life.
So 2011 is going to be great. I hope it brings good things to you too. For now though, have a happy christmas. Nollaig Shona Love Michael
Monday, November 22, 2010
China
So I just got back from China. Beijing is polluted beyond belief and anytime you raise this with Beijingers, they reply that it is fog which is funny. I like the town. It is stately in places, crazy and frenetic in others. I stayed in the cool Sanlitun area so safe to say I had a Starbucks on my doorstep. I did eat pretty amazing food including exotic dishes like Ox Tendon....interesting. I had Peking Duck with the addition of Goose. Have to say it was delicious. I may or may not have sampled Beijing nightlife including a funny speakeasy at the Workers Stadium. The trip was a big success now I am suffering the worst jetlag ever.
Recommendation for hotel http://www.theoppositehouse.com/
SO now begins the holiday tour which as usual should be great fun. Sad to say my trusted friend and guitarist Mellad wont be with us as his wife is having a baby. I do want to let you know that the lovely Caitlin Warbelow will be out with us on this tour. She is fun and brilliant on the fiddle, http://www.myspace.com/caityanna/blog/495758035
Preperation is underway for the PBS special to be recorded in San Bernardinos California Theater on March 18. We will be running a contest for free tickets to the taping in the New Year. I am delighted to say our first guest artist will be Frankie Gavin and De Dannan. I love trad and these are just the best there is. Frankie is a legend and I am honored to have them on board. We have one more exciting guest to announce but that wont happen until the New Year.
We go into the studio this week to record new material for the album to accompany the PBS dvd. So excited to get the earphones on and start singing. I love being in a studio as much as being on stage , if not more. We have a greatv new original song to record and much more.
Just when I thought I would focus on being a producer along came a chance to sing some more so the decision was made for me. I am excited about 2011 and in this week of thanksgiving, I am so grateful that I have this gift which allows me to do amazing things around the world.
Thanks for all your lovely emails. I just love to get them
Happy Thanksgiving.
ML
x
Recommendation for hotel http://www.theoppositehouse.com/
SO now begins the holiday tour which as usual should be great fun. Sad to say my trusted friend and guitarist Mellad wont be with us as his wife is having a baby. I do want to let you know that the lovely Caitlin Warbelow will be out with us on this tour. She is fun and brilliant on the fiddle, http://www.myspace.com/caityanna/blog/495758035
Preperation is underway for the PBS special to be recorded in San Bernardinos California Theater on March 18. We will be running a contest for free tickets to the taping in the New Year. I am delighted to say our first guest artist will be Frankie Gavin and De Dannan. I love trad and these are just the best there is. Frankie is a legend and I am honored to have them on board. We have one more exciting guest to announce but that wont happen until the New Year.
We go into the studio this week to record new material for the album to accompany the PBS dvd. So excited to get the earphones on and start singing. I love being in a studio as much as being on stage , if not more. We have a greatv new original song to record and much more.
Just when I thought I would focus on being a producer along came a chance to sing some more so the decision was made for me. I am excited about 2011 and in this week of thanksgiving, I am so grateful that I have this gift which allows me to do amazing things around the world.
Thanks for all your lovely emails. I just love to get them
Happy Thanksgiving.
ML
x
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