Fiddler MacMaster returns to Union Theater

Natalie MacMaster, the Cape Breton fiddling phenomenon, is returning to the Wisconsin Union Theater on Saturday, Nov. 16, at 8 p.m.

The critics rave about MacMaster and the awards are piling up. Those who saw her perform at the Union Theater in 1997 know that she is nothing less than a marvel. Daughter of two musicians and niece of the legendary Buddy MacMaster, she started playing the fiddle at age 9, performed her first public concert at 10 and made her first recording at 11. Now she is acknowledged internationally as the foremost representative of the special brand of Celtic music that originates in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.

Cape Breton was settled by Scots and, for a while, by Acadians on their way from Brittany to Louisiana. The musical ties between Scotland and Brittany are strong, and Cape Breton’s music sounds like a mix of traditional Celtic and Cajun. MacMaster, who still lives in Nova Scotia, has toured with the Chieftains, the Dixie Chicks and others, but she’s at her best playing the music with which she grew up. Headlining her six-member band, which this season includes bagpipe and whistles, MacMaster tells stories, dances and generally dazzles her audience.

Sing Out! Magazine says, “MacMaster demonstrates amazing finger and bow control as the notes tumble off her strings at a speed that stretches the ear’s ability to hear them.”

People interested in seeing this popular young performer are encouraged to purchase tickets soon. Tickets are $30 for the general public, $29 for Union members, or buy seven or more vouchers at $27 each. UW–Madison students: $14.50 or buy five or more vouchers for $10 each.

This performance is sponsored by the Wisconsin Union Directorate with additional support from WORT, 89.9 FM.

For more information, call the box office at (608) 262-2201.