World of Music: Bealtaine (Celtic Folk)

Photo Courtesy: Bealtaine.

This August, allow the sounds of uilleann piping and the bodhrán to carry you into the heart of Ireland and Scotland, following the deft navigation and instrumentation of Pittsburgh-based folk band Bealtaine.

Since starting in 2018, Bealtaine has grown from playing in the corners of pubs to taking the main stage at festivals, always searching for new ways to make their mark. Their performances feature instruments audiences would be hard-pressed to find in your standard concert sets, including the uilleann pipes (a particular kind of Irish bagpipes) and the bodhrán, an ancient Irish percussion instrument similar to a tambourine. With roots in Irish and Scottish folk, songs from the Canadian Maritimes, trad tunes, and working-class anthems, they strive to keep traditions alive while borrowing influence from the modern world.

Featured Musicians:

George White: bouzouki, mandocello, vocals

Conor Freeland: uilleann Pipes, whistles, vocals

Bill Buchko: bodhrán, cajon

Andy Morrison: banjo, mandolin, guitar, vocals

Dylan Rooke: guitar, bass, vocals

About the Artist:

Bealtaine has performed at many festivals (Pittsburgh Irish Festival, Erie Irish Festival, Mahoning Valley Irish Festival, Millvale Music Festival, Ford City Ethnic Fest, Pittsburgh Oktoberfest, Minerva Evening of Celtic Music, and more), playing shows with artists such as The Friel Sisters, The Longest Johns, The Tossers, The Screaming Orphans, Flatfoot 56, Enda Reilly, and many others. Thrice nominated for the Pittsburgh City Paper’s Best of the Burgh (2nd place Best World/International Artist 2023 & 2024, 3rd place Best Folk Artist), featured on KDKA’s Pittsburgh Today Live and local radio, they hope to continue their growth as a band and bring their music to the world.

About Your Visit: 

The in-house restaurant, Cucina Alfabeto, is open for dinner from 5 to 10 p.m. Please visit OpenTable or call 412-435-1111 to make a reservation.