D214 Community Education hosts an afternoon of Irish music March 17
Get into the happy St. Patrick's Day spirit 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 17 when District 214 Community Education hosts a show featuring The Whiskey Brothers, Chicago's premier Irish band, at the Forest View Educational Center, 2121 S. Goebbert Road, Arlington Heights.
The Whiskey Brothers has been part of Chicago's music scene since 2001. It's unique five-member band will play a variety of Irish songs in five-part harmony. Members of the audience will be treated to traditional jigs and reels, beautiful Irish ballads, American music with an Irish flair and much more.
"You'll be sure to have a toe-tapping good time," said Dave Marcotte, a percussionist in the band. "What makes the District 214 Community Education show unique is the added educational component we provide. Not only will you get great music, but we'll be sharing fun facts about our instruments, and the historical and social significance behind many of our songs."
Dave's brother, Dan, discovered the power of Irish music and its ability to build community while he was on a college trip to Ireland. Marcotte said that in Ireland, hardworking people would go to local pubs to relax and bond with other community members through the joys of song and dance after a long week of hard work.
Each member of the Whisky Brothers are also teachers and they enjoy playing at libraries, community centers, retirement centers and other facilities where they can also educate the audience about Ireland's rich culture and history.
"What we love the most about being part of the Whiskey Brothers is the joyful impact we have on the communities for whom we play," said Marcotte. "Life is tough out there for many of us. If we can provide a couple of hours to tap your toes, smile, laugh, and even sing along with us, well, then we feel we are fulling our mission."
The Whiskey Brothers is a unique Irish band because they do not have a drum set or bass guitar that makes up their rhythm section. Instead, band members will play Irish folk percussion, such as the Bodhran (Irish frame drum), spoons, washboard and more.
Tickets are $15 (Gold Card members), $18 (Advance) and $20 (Door). You can purchase your tickets at https://tickets.d214.org/show/15 or by calling District 214 Community Education at (847) 718-7700.