Celts of the world to meet in Glasgow in January

(Celtic Connections/Lieve Boussauw)

For almost three weeks in January, Glasgow, the largest city in Scotland, becomes the capital of Celts from the world over, a place where Celtic culture is feted and musical stylings are mixed with other genres. The 17th edition of Celtic Connections will offer over 300 events with Irish group The Chieftains headlining as well as American guitarist Ry Cooder and multi-style vocalist Bobby Mc Ferrin who will "connect" with their Celt heritage.

Even though the Celts were originally from central Europe before their conquest of western areas, Celtic heritage mostly refers to the nations where Celtic languages and culture are still vivid such as Scotland, Ireland, Isle of Man, Wales, Cornwall and Brittany.

However, since the 2010 program celebrates "the influence of Celtic music on cultures around the world," according to organizers, Celtic Connections will welcome in Glasgow's 14 venues over 1,500 artists from Japan, Brazil, Mexico, Cuba, Colombia, India, Africa, Hungary, Norway, Corsica, Canada, the USA and other locales

Celtic music will be the main focus with artists from Ireland like The Chieftains, or Cherish the Ladies, or well-known Scottish bands Peatbog Faeries and Session A9, along with other types of music such as folk, world, classical, rock, jazz and more, in a joyous mix of cultures.

Celtic Connections
Glasgow, Scotland
January 14-31

www.celticconnections.com

Other Celtic Festivals throughout the world in 2010

Festival de Ortigueira , in Ortigueira (Spain)
July 8-11, 2010
http://www.festivaldeortigueira.com

Yn Chruinnaght, Isle of Man (UK)
July 10-18, 2010
http://www.ynchruinnaght.com

Lorient Festival, in Lorient, Brittany (France)
August 6-15, 2010
http://www.festival-interceltique.com

Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, in Tullamore (Ireland)
August
http://www.fleadh2009.com

Celtic Colours, in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia (Canada)
October
http://www.celtic-colours.com