IRISH CHARM
Celtic Woman will ‘share tradition’ on Popejoy stage
É abha McMahon is nearly halfway through a four-month tour.
The crowds have been great, and it makes the time fly.
“It’s actually been brilliant,” she says of the tour. “I’m amazed that every time we tour, the audience grows. It’s humbling.”
McMahon is a member of the Irish fourpiece ensemble Celtic Woman.
The group is rounded out by Máiréad Carlin, Susan McFadden and Tara McNeill.
Celtic Woman’s current tour is called “Homecoming Live.”
McMahon says the tour is based the group’s recently released album and a PBS special recorded last year.
The songs are traditional Irish songs, and they have a lot of meaning to the group.
“In Ireland, you are brought up singing the same songs,” she says. “This is a tradition that we have. To be able to take these songs and present them to the world is amazing. I don’t look at what I do as a job. It’s a privilege to be able to share this tradition.”
McMahon began her singing career at 9, when she was chosen by Veritas Publications to record an album for the children’s book “Beo go Deo.”
She then began singing in the traditional sean nós style, taught by famous singers such as Máire Ní Choilm and Séamus Mac Mathúna.
She went on to win the under-18 All Ireland Oireachtais final at the age of 15, she was reigning Leinster champion from the age of 13 to 17 in the Fleadh Ceoil, and five time Dublin champion in the Fairview Feis Ceoil age 14-18.
At 15, McMahon was approached to audition for Anúna, the original Riverdance choir, and in 2005, she became the youngest member of the choir.
While planning for the four-month tour, McMahon rested a lot.
“I rest and see my family as much as possible before going away,” she says. “With my fiancé, we chill out. I make sure that I’m looking out for myself, because being on the road is tough on your body.”
In helping keep everything smooth, McMahon credits the tour managers with keeping a rigid schedule.
“I really love falling into a routine,” she says. “I played hockey when I was growing up, and there was a routine to it all, from the training to the games. On tour, we get up in the morning and have breakfast. Then there’s a window where we can explore the city we are in. Then we go into hair and makeup around 2 p.m. Then it’s showtime. A routine really helps me break down and plan my days.”