Tonight’s artists each come from different islands, but despite the geographic distance that separates them, they all have one thing in common—the value they place on cultural heritage and its expression through language, music, and dance. Tonight’s concert features musicians from the Orkney Islands of northern Scotland, Cape Breton Island, and Ireland and recognizes the relatively informal musical gathering typically known as a session. Sessions are popular events wherever traditional music is played. They can play an important role in meeting other musicians, learning tunes, and passing on traditions, in a fun and friendly setting. Kris Drever comes from the folk music hotbed of Orkney. When he left in his late teens, Kris ended up spending a lot of time in the vibrant session scene in Edinburgh, particularly at Sandy Bells, where met the folks who would form Fine Friday. It was with Fine Friday that Kris first came to Celtic Colours. And thankfully, he keeps coming back. For Cape Bretoners, sessions usually happen at house parties or in the kitchen rather than at a bar or pub. Leanne Aucoin and Kolten MacDonell grew up in this musical environment and we’ll see the effects of such an upbringing tonight. Sessions are very popular throughout Ireland, particularly in the Gaeltacht region of Connemara where Sèamus & Caoimhe are from. The strength of the Irish language and musical culture in this area had a big impact on the siblings who are noted for their sean-nós singing and accomplished musicianship.