Internationally renowned duo Alasdair Fraser and Natalie Haas will perform live at Bishop Hill Creative Commons on Tuesday, February 24th. Known for their dynamic blend of fiddle and cello, the pair seamlessly fuses Scottish traditions with global influences, reshaping what these instruments can achieve together. The evening begins with an optional community potluck dinner at 6 PM, followed by the much-anticipated concert at 7 PM. Suggested donations range from $20 to $30. All ages are welcome to enjoy this rare chance to hear two masters whose energy and artistic synergy promise an unforgettable evening. Full event details are available at xroadscc.org.
Alasdair Fraser and Natalie Haas continue to captivate audiences worldwide, blending the wild energy of Scottish dance with the precision of chamber music. Fraser, lauded as “the Michael Jordan of Scottish fiddling,” brings decades of experience to the partnership, while Juilliard-trained Haas delivers powerful rhythms, redefining the cello’s role in traditional music. Their collaboration, which spans over 25 years, has set a new standard for fiddle and cello duos. Their acclaimed debut, Fire & Grace, won Scots Trad Music Album of the Year, and their ongoing work impresses critics with its responsive, lively interplay—breathing new life into age-old traditions.
Alasdair Fraser, renowned as “the Michael Jordan of Scottish fiddling,” continues to inspire global audiences with his unparalleled mastery of the Scots fiddle. Over a career spanning more than thirty years, Fraser has not only preserved traditional tunes but also introduced them to new generations, both on stage and on screen. His playing can be heard in celebrated film soundtracks such as The Last of the Mohicans and Titanic, showcasing the haunting beauty of Scottish folk music. Fraser’s influence was formally recognized in 2011 with his induction into the Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy in folk tradition.
Natalie Haas, renowned Juilliard School graduate, continues to redefine the role of the cello in traditional music circles. Her innovative technique, blending percussive bowing and energetic pizzicato, has made her a rhythmic cornerstone in ensembles featuring artists such as Mark O’Connor, Natalie MacMaster, Solas, Altan, and Darol Anger. Critics and collaborators alike praise her ability to bring both drive and depth to folk and Celtic repertoires, serving as a rhythm section all her own. Haas’s artistry not only expands the cello’s capabilities but also energizes every stage she steps onto around the world.
“Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience two masters of their craft in the intimate setting of Bishop Hill Creative Commons. Bring a dish, bring a friend, and prepare for an unforgettable evening of soaring melodies, driving rhythms, and musical magic.”