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Three-time Canadian Fiddle and Stepdance Champions to Perform in Crystal Falls

The Crystal Theatre

Crystal Falls, MI – Crystal Theatre 3-time Canadian Grandmaster Fiddle Champions and Ontario Open Step Dance Champions to the Stage on Friday, July 19, at 7:00 pm CST.A family group consisting of fiddling and step dancing siblings – Tom, Kerry & Julie Fitzgerald. These siblings, from just outside of Canada’s renowned Ottawa Valley, have come a long way from their small-town roots, this unique act features high-energy fiddling and mind-blowing step dancing. It is the rare combination of exceptional musicianship, incomparable step dancing, audience interaction, evident love of performing, and genuine sibling connection that resonates with audiences of all ages and sets this group apart.

The Fitzgerald siblings were raised in a musical household and toured internationally with their family band “Everything Fitz”. Growing up on the outskirts of the Ottawa Valley, they were immersed in the rich tradition of Canadian Old Time fiddling and step dancing that evolved with the arrival of Irish, Scottish and French immigrants. Over time, they have developed their art form to include various styles of fiddle music including Celtic, jazz, bluegrass, French-Canadian, and pop. They have also explored other dance forms including tap and Irish. The siblings continue to push boundaries by fusing traditional and modern styles of fiddle and dance to create their own unique sound and style. Their creativity and passion for experimentation has led them to compose original tunes and arrangements, some which were released on their latest album. The result is a groovy and catchy new sound and look that appeals to all ages.

Despite their young age, these musicians have some notable musical experiences under their belts. Highlights include group/solo performances with: Nathan Carter, Leahy, Natalie McMaster, Cherish the Ladies, Tommy Hunter, Bowfire, Sharon Shannon, Liz Carroll, We Banjo 3, World-Fest, Silver Dollar City, Branson MO. As members of The StepCrew, they have had the opportunity to perform with Carlos Nunez, Solas, and Eileen Ivers. They are guest performers on the prestigious Nathan Carter TV Christmas Special 2017, broadcast by BBC and RTE television. A video of their high-energy dance performance went viral via Ireland’s Independent.ie, with over 3 million views! Their show is a hit at festivals including Milwaukee Irish Fest (US), Dayton Irish Fest (US), Cleveland Irish Fest (US), Iowa Irish Fest (US) Shrewsbury Folk Fest (UK), Mariposa Folk Fest (CA), Stan Rogers Folk Fest (CA), among others. They are also in demand as music instructors, both privately and at music camps across Canada. They strive to educate and inspire young musicians wherever they go through workshops, jamming, community outreach and school shows.

This event is part of the Gem of a Season Series.  Tickets are available online at (TheCrystalTheatre.org) and the Iron County Chamber of Commerce, Ben Franklins in Crystal Falls, and Music Tree in Iron Mountain.

Kurt lives in Marquette with his family and can’t imagine living anywhere else. He loves music, games, running, being near water, and a fine cold brew coffee.
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