Mairead is, well, quite beautiful. Such a joy to watch her perform. As beautiful as she is, her real beauty lies in the beauty she creates; her music. Playing the fiddle, making music, is the love of her life. She's been quoted as saying she likes to move when she plays. If you've ever seen a Celtic Woman concert that statement has much more meaning. I think her movement is a fine example of the energy that can be created when heart, mind, and soul combine to produce music that seems only she can create. Her joy and energy has to be released. Movement or not, the end result is unmistakable - beautiful music.
I really do enjoy listening to her CD. It has the Irish feel and other styles and has a variety of music that will satisfy different tastes. "Raining Up" helps me to relax and energizes me at the same time. Some of her tunes can really put you in a reflective mood, so relaxing. Others will get you moving; you feel the beat and hear that fiddle, feel the energy, so uplifting. For those of you who never purchased a CD from a violinist or fiddler, simply play the music samples above. I know they are short samples but I believe you will like what you hear. You will have to be the judge of course. I'm very happy with my purchase.
My favorites: She has several lively tunes that pick you up, get you moving to the music. "Tri Fhidili" is my favorite here, it just begs you to get up and try an Irish dance. I love it.
To relax: "there is no night" - I can play this over and over. A soft, tender tune that puts me someplace else, very relaxing. The "2nd Movement" and "bovaglies plaid" are excellent as well.
Mairead is an expert musician. After listening to her "Raining Up" CD a few times you really appreciate her skills and taste of music she has acquired while playing this instrument since the age of six. She started piano at age four. Her Mom and Dad, her entire family, plays music-- an excellent environment for an aspiring musician in her early years as well as today. Heavily trained and practiced in the classical area including post graduate studies in both piano and fiddle, she is one of probably only a few that can separate and play different styles to perfection on her fiddle and combine elements of different styles in a very professional and pleasing way. Mairead gained a wealth of experience having played with so many well known musicians in a variety of music styles. She is also a former fiddle champion of Ireland.
I sometimes catch myself just smiling while listening. I can picture her with the same smile while playing. Yes, a joy to watch her play. But you don't need a video to see her. Just listen to her. You can see her in her music. It's quite beautiful.