Celtic Connections is delighted to present another first. This time we have persuaded Irish legends, The Chieftains, to invite some very special friends to join them in a musical celebration that links the music of Ireland with Mexico and the southern United States.

Appearing with the band tonight will be revered US musician, producer and composer Ry Cooder and the Mexican five piece Los Cenzontles. In the hands of masters like these you can expect remarkable musicianship rooted in a vibrant tradition, spectacular dance and elegant song.

Ry Cooder first worked with The Chieftains on their Grammy award winning Santiago release in 1986 and band leader Paddy Moloney has maintained his links with the man behind classic albums like Bop Till You Drop, groundbreaking filmscores like Paris,Texas and who was central to the worldwide success of the Buena Vista Social Club albums. Alongside his mastery of blues music Ry Cooder has long demonstrated a curiosity and love for various forms of great America music- he championed Norteno music, working for many years with Tex-Mex accordion ace, Flaco Jimenez.

With a career that spans over 40 years and as many album releases (including 6 Grammy winners) The Chieftains are not only Ireland’s premier musical ambassadors but also the most enduring and influential creative force in establishing the international appeal of Celtic music. Along with Ry Cooder and Los Cenzontles joining long time band members Paddy Moloney, Matt Molloy, Sean Keane and Kevin Conneff will be harper Triona Marshall, the dazzling fiddling and stepdance pairing of Canadians Jon and Nathan Pilatzke and world champion Irish dancer Cara Butler. This being a Chieftains show you can expect one or two other guests including Alyth McCormack, Jonny Hardie and Brian McAlpine.

We also have music from other Irish acts including http://www.celticconnections.com/whatson/event/90198-Cherish-the-Ladies-An-Irish-Homecoming">Cherish the Ladies, http://www.celticconnections.com/whatson/event/90239-Dervish-21st-Birthday-Celebration-with-special-guests">Dervish and http://www.celticconnections.com/whatson/event/90241-Frankie-Gavin-&-The-New-De-Dannan-and-2-Duos">Frankie Gavin & De Dannan.

Tickets:  £30