Chieftains to bring Celtic, modern music to IU Auditorium Tuesday

The Chieftains will be appearing at 8 p.m. Tuesday at the IU Auditorium. Playing a mix of traditional Celtic and modern music, the band has become one of the best-known Irish bands in the world.

Originally founded in 1962 by Paddy Moloney, the band’s roots are in traditional Celtic instrumental music. In the beginning the band only played the fiddle, flute, tin whistle and bodhran, which gave the music a rustic and traditional sound.

Before becoming well-known around the world, the band’s early followers were folk audiences.  

Now in its 40th year, the band includes vocals and modern music. It has gained world recognition, garnering 18 Grammy nominations and six Grammy awards.

“The Chieftains attract people who are interested in having a fun night,” said IU Auditorium Events Manager Maria Talbert.

The Chieftains’ most recent tour is in support of their new album, “San Patricio,” which tells the story of the San Patricio Battalion, a group of Irish immigrants that deserted the U.S. army in 1846 to fight on the Mexican side in the Mexican-American war. The album is a blending of Irish, Mexican and folk styles of music.

The Chieftains have strong roots in history and tradition. They were the first musical group to perform on the Great Wall of China. The band also participated in Pink Floyd’s 1990 live performance of the album “The Wall” in Berlin and was the first band to give a concert in the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. The Chieftains also performed at the memorial service honoring the victims of the Sept. 11 attacks.

“The Chieftains aspire to create a sense of community,” Talbert said. “Music and art bring people together in a way nothing else can.”

The IU Auditorium also united with the Irish Lion to celebrate the upcoming event, giving audience members 10 percent off if they present their ticket stub before or after the performance Friday, Talbert said.

“The Chieftains aspire to bridge gaps across all types of people and cultures,” Talbert said.

— Isabel Dieppa