Christmas O’Carolan

Imagine an Irish winter evening filled with music, laughter, and stories passed down through generations. This concert celebrates the spirit of Turlough O’Carolan, the blind Celtic harper whose gift for melody made him one of Ireland’s most beloved composers. His joyful planxties – written as tributes to patrons and friends – are filled with warmth and wit, the kind of tunes that once held up weddings and funerals until he could arrive to play.

Joining us for this holiday celebration are Katie Grennan on fiddle, John Williams on accordion, harpist Lauren Hayes, singer Nora Byrd, and guitarist-fiddler Liam Kantor. Together, they’ll share O’Carolan’s music alongside festive melodies of the season, blending toe-tapping dance rhythms with moments of quiet reflection. It’s the sound of Ireland at Christmastime: full of heart, tradition, and joy.

Mary Foster – Visual Artist

Artist Mary Foster completes the evening with her striking paintings and woodcuts, inspired by the hidden geometry and bold colors of the natural world. Her art, like Carolan’s music, captures fleeting moments and transforms them into something timeless.

Irish tunes, holiday spirit, and the glow of nature’s beauty. “Christmas O’Carolan” promises to leave you smiling well into the season.

About Rendezvous Arts

With unwavering passion and boundless creativity, the devoted Board of Directors and staff at Rendezvous Arts lead the charge in fostering a harmonious community, nurturing emerging talent, and inspiring artistic excellence. Together, we strive to be an organization that redefines the boundaries of artistic expression and brings the gift of music and art to all corners of the Chicago area.

We value diversity and inclusion. We do not and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status.