Published: May 29, 2006 09:29 am         

Rideout, Coyote Run due to perform at Celtic Concert

MCHENRY — The fiery Scottish fiddler Bonnie Rideout and rollicking Celtic band Coyote Run will perform at the Celtic Concert in the Lodge at Wisp on June 2 at 8 p.m.

From the Kennedy Center to Scotland’s Edinburgh International Festival, Rideout’s unique style of fiddling traditional Scottish dance tunes, ancient Gaelic melodies and Highland bagpipe music has charmed and captivated audiences.

She has authored nine music books, recorded a dozen solo albums and appeared as a guest musician on dozens of others. Some of her solo recordings include “Scottish Fire,” “Scottish Rant,” “Kindred Spirits,” “Celtic Circles,” and “Soft May Morn.” Her CD, “A Scottish Christmas,” was on the New York Times Top Ten Holiday Best Seller and others have won awards.

Rideout is the only American to represent Scottish fiddle music at the prestigious Edinburgh International Festival and the first woman to hold a national Scottish fiddle title.

Inspired by the rich heritages of Celtic, warrior and maritime traditions, Coyote Run’s rich storytelling style of music portrays soaring tales of battle, blood, love, loss and the sheer joy of living. Playing a variety of instruments, the band also brings humor into their musical presentation.

“This is a rare opportunity to hear both of these musical names in one evening — they complement each other beautifully,” said Jerry McGee, chairman of the McHenry Highland Festival. “We are, indeed, fortunate just to be able to get them here, let alone on the same evening.”

A social time will start at 7:15 p.m. with Lynne Barnes-Dale, Celtic harper. The evening offers a silent auction and raffle, free appetizers with a cash bar and whisky tasting. Pipers will welcome concert-goers to the exciting evening.

The concert is hosted by and benefits the Garrett College Pipes and Drums. Members of the band are helping prepare for the festival, organized by Helga Williamson of the Highland Festival Board and Alma Ryan, the bass drummer for the Pipes and Drums.

More information and tickets are available online at www.highlandfest.info or by calling McGee at (301) 387-3093.