Celtic joy and melancholy

Philadelphia-based experimental Irish folk trio, Faoileán, brings renewed creativity to traditional songs and tunes. Their performances capture the unbridled joy and stunning melancholy of the music, all with beautifully subtle playing.

The band features Nathan Bishop (fiddle, 5-string fiddle, viola), a fiddler based in Somerville, NJ. Bishop enjoys making uncommon sounds, but does not like kale. He loves hot chocolate. Joining him is Rob Helsel (resonator guitar, 5-string banjo, Spanish guitar, vocals), a musician and ecologist living in Bordentown, NJ. Known for smelling leaves and unnecessarily vocalizing in the woods. Helsel likes hats and does not like that Nathan does not like kale. Connor Brogan (octave mandolin, tenor banjo, steel string guitar, harmonium, vocals), a self-proclaimed licensed degenerate, full-time idiot, and token bald friend rounds out the trio. Brogan plays all instruments that aren’t rhythm or melody, but also rhythm and melody.

Faoileán [FWEEL-AWN] is an Irish word that translates to “seagull”, and also refers to “one who circles or spins; wild one”. The latter definition describes this musical trio’s sonic style, as they contribute to the thriving contemporary Irish trad scene by lending their original music as well as a fresh perspective on tunes emanating from Ireland throughout history.

There will be an Irish Music Session following the concert and any musicians are welcome to join in playing with Faoileán fiddler Nathan Bishop and members of the State College Area Irish Music Session players. Listeners and dancers welcome too!

Website:

https://www.facebook.com/faoileantunes

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