It's the most wonderful time of the year ...
... and for years Eileen and the band have been celebrating the glorious story of Christmas, thoughtfully, uniquely and with pure unbridled joy! Eileen’s Irish and American roots shine throughout the evening’s beautiful mix of traditional, story-filled, age-old Wren Day songs, poems, and of course, foot stomping and hollerin’ roots music. Eileen and the ensemble’s plethora of instruments and voices weave throughout the evening, coupled with Ivers’ signature warmth, inviting listeners in for a tuneful, soulful celebration capturing the true spirit and joy of the season.
REVIEW: The Noorda Center for the Performing Arts - Kevin Rolfe, The Utah Concert Review
I will never forget seeing Ms. Ivers at the Noorda Center for the Performing Arts on the campus of Utah Valley University. During the concert, I was completely blown away. And I kept thinking about how impressive both Eileen and her band were.
The concert started with Ivers on stage playing the familiar melody from “O Come All Ye Faithful”. As she beautifully played two members of her band walked towards the stage from each side playing brass instruments. They were joined by an accordion and then percussions. We were off and running. That familiar tune was then part of a melody of exciting Irish/ Celtic themed tunes. It was a great way to start the concert and introduce the attentive audience to the band and music.
The show was filled with amazing music, medleys, and poetry. Eileen Ivers is clearly a talented musician, but also a great storyteller. I enjoyed hearing the background of the music. It was totally interesting to me and clearly to the rest of the audience. As I looked around I could see people’s eyes were locked on Ivers and her words.
A huge highlight for me was a segment in the show when Eileen Ivers was on stage alone, just her and her fiddle. She shared with us the amazing things a fiddle can do when plugged in. She created an entire song using a looping pedal …she created a beat, a bass line, a melody, and harmonies. It filled the room. Again, I looked around The Noorda and saw eyes wide open. It was really impressive and the ovation was so full of joy.
Each member of Ivers’ band was extremely talented. They all played a variety of instruments and had such a rapport with one another, they were so fun to watch. I think they could give a masterclass on not only this style of music but on playing together in a band so cohesively.
The New York Times called Eileen Ivers the “Jimmy Hendrix of the violin”. I get what they’re saying. She’s an incredibly innovative talent on what is one of our most ancient instruments. I heard the violin do things I had never heard before. It was a most impressive night. She expressed a desire to return, and I really hope she does soon.
