• NATIONAL
• FEATURED
• URCHIN STREET
• DANCE
• STORYTELLERS
• SCOTTISH VILLAGE
• HORSES
• CULINARY

NTIF 2012 Urchin Street Performers

So finally, here is the performers list for the NTIF 2012 Harkness state in Urchin Street

Hailey Sandoz and Reelin'

Lady Amber and Micheal Harrison

Linda King of Amberhawke has been a part of the Dallas Celtic scene for more years than most can remember. In 2007 she and Michael Harrison joined forces and produced the incredibly successful CD, "For Kids of all Ages". After a long illness Michael joins forces again with Linda to be with you on the NTIF Urchin Street Stage.

At NTIF on the Urchin Street stages
come Micheal and Linda with songs for all ages.
There are songs about things we can see and can touch,
like ponies and bats and fishmongers and such.
We'll sing other songs that you can sing too,
about dragons and bears, and a couple of saints.
There's a song of a garden and a crow in a tree,
wise words from mom and a ship on the sea.
So come all ye children it's Urchin Street time –
Let's sing and be merry, let's dance and let's rhyme

Heirloom

From traditional English, Irish and American based folk tunes to flowing airs, waltzes and hymns to foot stomping reels, Heirloom, the duo featuring Keith and Lauren Plaskonos, performs beautifully on Hammer Dulcimer, an ancient Persian instrument that sounds like a magical blend of harp and piano. Keith Plaskonos is the 1991 Texas State Champion on this instrument.

Lauren is the 2004 Oklahoma Champion, the 2006 Texas State Champion and both have competed nationally. Their CD - "Heirloom, Music From a Simpler Time" - features an eclectic collection of English, Irish and traditional American, classical and contemporary tunes. Accompanying the dulcimer are haunting and lively vocals, guitar, violin, penny whistle, bodhran and tambourine. Venues have included the Smithsonian, the North Texas Irish Festival, the Norman Medieval Faire, Six Flags and regular appearances at the North Texas Dulcimer Festival.

"music for the soul", "accomplished musicians. Their music is delightfully arranged and performed" The Lone Star State Dulcimer Society.

Arabesque

Arabesque is a musical duo that has been mesmerizing audiences since 2003 with their unique blend of Celtic, Arabic, Judeo-Spanish, Turkish, and other world folk traditions. Any given song can be a vehicle to take the musicians and the listeners to new places, creating spontaneous and heartfelt expressions through the blending of musical forms, ornaments, and styles.

Their performances are an intelligent mix of instrumental music, storytelling, history, humor and hands-on fun. Both hail from Norman, Oklahoma, where Miranda teaches World Music at the University of Oklahoma and Steve does archaeological survey work. They have performed at fairs, festivals, contra dances, workshops, schools, universities, and private functions throughout Oklahoma and neighboring states. Come take a magic carpet ride around the globe with Arabesque as this unique pair unveils the mysteries and enchantments of the world's diverse musical cultures, marrying lilting Irish reels and jigs to the sensuous and evocative melodies of the East.

Don Gabbert

Don Gabbert has been called, "The voice of the West Texas Celts". A first generation Irish-American who was born and raised in Texas As a singer and songwriter Don provides a unique insight into the music and culture of the Irish in Texas. Don states that, "To be of Irish heritage is a great honor and to be a Texan is a source of great pride, But to be both is the most marvelous distinction there is!" Through stories and songs Don invites everyone to discover and revel in their heritage and to join him in saying, "Tejas Go Bragh".

Don Currently Lives in El Paso, Texas with his Wife Wrennah and performs throughout the Southwest.

Killavil

Killavil is a group of young musicians with a continuing dedication to Traditional Irish Music.

They perform at festivals, clubs, and pubs, across the United States, England, and Ireland. Killavil incorporates music from the Galway and East Clare fiddle tradition as well as the piping tradition of Patsy Touhey and Willie Clancy.

The band consists of Michael Stribling on the uilleann pipes, tin whistle, and flute, Rachel Stribling on the fiddle, and Daniel Stribling on bouzouki, bodhran, and piano. Michael is an All-Ireland Champion on the uilleann pipes.