Celtic roots group Runa to perform Valentine's Day concert Feb. 14

The Celtic American roots music group Runa will make their only local stop of their Midwest tour on Valentine's Day in Glen Ellyn.

The concert will begin at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14, at Grace Lutheran Church, 493 Forest Ave.

Celebrating their 10-year anniversary, the Philadelphia-based group continues to push the boundaries of Irish folk music in the Americana and roots music formats. They interweave the melodies and exuberant tunes of Ireland and Scotland with harmonies and rhythms of bluegrass, flamenco and blues.

Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door.

For tickets, contact the church office at (630) 469-1555 or visit the website at www.graceglenellyn.org.

Seeking to preserve and continue a traditional culture in a modern age, Runa creates the backbone of its signature roots sound from the musical and geographical diversity of its individually established band members. Their striving for excellence and creativity blazes a trail for the future of folk music, earning them the reputation as one of the most innovative Irish folk groups of this generation.

Runa features vocalist and step-dancer Shannon Lambert-Ryan of Philadelphia; Dublin-born guitarist Fionán de Barra; Cheryl Prashker of Canada on percussion; Jake James of New York on the fiddle; and Caleb Edwards of Nashville on mandolin and vocals.

The church also will host a concert on Leap Year Day with the Valparaiso University Chorale, conducted by Christopher M. Cock. The concert will be 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 29.