Mairéad Carlin Embraces Authenticity Ahead of Celtic Woman Tour

Mairéad Carlin, a prominent member of the renowned Irish ensemble Celtic Woman, is set to embark on a North American tour titled “A New Era,” beginning on March 4, 2024, with an anticipated performance in New York City on March 20. Carlin’s journey to this pivotal moment includes significant personal and professional growth, underscoring her commitment to authenticity in music.

Reflecting on her career, Carlin recalled a challenging period that began when she was just 21 years old. After graduating from music college, she was promised a six-album deal that ultimately fell through. “I felt like the rug was pulled from under me,” she said. In response, she pivoted to teaching singing at a theatre school outside London, a move she credits with reigniting her passion for performance. This experience laid the groundwork for her eventual joining of Celtic Woman in 2013.

Celtic Woman, formed in 2005, has remained a staple of the music industry, known for its captivating harmonies and theatrical performances. Carlin’s arrival marked a new chapter for the ensemble, and she expressed gratitude for the opportunity. “Not a lot of people get second chances, so I appreciated it all the more because I knew that all I wanted to do was sing,” she stated.

Carlin attributes her resilience to a mentor’s advice, emphasizing the importance of talent, tenacity, and temperament in navigating the creative industry. She believes that time plays a crucial role in success, particularly in an unpredictable field like music. “Nothing’s ever going to be perfect all the time. This industry doesn’t just reward the most talented people; it’s the people that can weather the storm,” she explained.

Her musical influences are diverse, drawing from both her Irish roots and broader genres. Carlin cited artists like Joni Mitchell, Sandy Denny, and Alison Krauss as significant to her development. She noted, “The core of everything I do is the story,” underscoring her preference for songs with relatable messages.

As she prepares for the upcoming tour, Carlin feels a deep connection to her home city of Derry. “I feel so lucky that I come from Derry because we have this strength and almost dark sense of humor because of everything we’ve been through,” she said. Her father’s legacy as a bass player and performer also influences her, adding emotional depth to her performances. “In some ways, I feel like I’m living in his legacy,” she shared.

While Carlin looks forward to the North American tour, she also has aspirations for performances in Ireland. She expressed a desire for more acoustic gigs, believing that audiences often overlook the raw talent present in Celtic Woman. “I’d love to do something very stripped back and show that side of us,” she said, acknowledging the high expectations of Irish audiences.

Celtic Woman’s evolution is a key theme for Carlin as they enter this new era. “The amazing thing about Celtic Woman is that it’s ever-evolving,” she remarked. The ensemble has seen a variety of women contribute to its identity, each bringing unique stories and musical backgrounds. Carlin highlighted the diversity within the group, stating, “Celtic Woman is such a beautiful spectrum of so many different women from all walks of life.”

As the tour approaches, Carlin is enthusiastic about the new arrangements they will present. “These new arrangements are like a breath of fresh air,” she said. Led by musical director Brian Byrne, the group aims to modernize their sound while remaining true to their roots. “We want to remain true to the sound of Celtic Woman but also want to move it on and bring it to the modern world,” she noted.

Carlin believes that the authenticity of their music is more relevant now than ever. “I feel like we’re in this very strange time, this AI thing, where we don’t know if things are real. Hopefully, people will see and appreciate groups like Celtic Woman even more,” she said. The emotional depth and craftsmanship of their arrangements, she argues, resonate with audiences seeking genuine musical experiences.

As the countdown to the tour begins, Carlin’s excitement is palpable. “I’m just grateful that we’re still doing it and people are still craving that authentic thing,” she concluded. With the launch of “A New Era,” Celtic Woman is poised to captivate audiences once again, showcasing not only their musical prowess but also the stories that define them. Tickets for the tour are currently available.