“Celtic Christmas” Concerts this Weekend

Friday and Saturday, Dec. 1 and 2 at 7 p.m. at the Community Church

— from Brian Moss, Senior Pastor, Orcas Island Community Church —

Orcas Island Community Church invites you to join us for Celtic Christmas concerts featuring Jeff Johnson, Brian Dunning, Wendy Goodwin & Eric Miller. These concerts have become an island tradition and are a great way to kick off the holiday season. The group will play on Dec. 1 & 2 at 7:00 pm. Donations are appreciated.

Jeff Johnson & Brian Dunning have been playing together for decades. The American/Irish duo’s music has become a mainstay in the Contemporary Celtic music genre with acclaimed releases such as “Byzantium,” “The Bard & The Warrior,” “King Raven,” “Patrick,” and “A Quiet Knowing.” Their songs have been selected for many best selling contemporary instrumental compilations including those released by Windham Hill (Celtic Christmas, Winter Solstice) and Hearts of Space (Celtic Twilight). Their music is often connected with the novels of Stephen R. Lawhead, and they have had music featured in films such as Martin Scorcese’s “Gangs of New York.”

Johnson’s recent solo efforts include “Broken,” “Gazing” and “Journey Prayers” which reflect his work with Selah, a contemplative worship service he presents in many churches and Christian retreat centers. He has also collaborated with the renowned guitarist Phil Keaggy on two recordings: “Frio Suite” and “WaterSky.”

Dunning’s latest recording is “Blue Sphere Motifs” with percussionist, Robbie Harris. He is a former member of the popular band, Nightnoise (Shadow Of Time, Something Of Time).

Wendy Goodwin joined the trio in 2009 bringing a rich versatility and creative presence honed from many years as a performer and session player in the Pacific Northwest. Her most recent recording is “Place of Refuge,” which also features Johnson and Dunning.

In this year’s concert, the trio will perform music from the group’s diverse catalog including their popular Christmas recordings, “Winterfold,” “Under the Wonder Sky” and “A Quiet Knowing Christmas.”

Guitarist and singer-songwriter Eric Miller’s music is born out of American Folk blended with the subtleties of Rock, Country, and Blues. He was a wonderful addition to last year’s tour, and we’re delighted to have him join us again.

Hear the music at www.arkmusic.com as well as on Spotify and Pandora Radio.