"Sláinte: Irish Songs for St. Patrick's Day" is a captivating celebration of Irish music, masterfully conducted by Erich Kunzel and the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra. Released on March 17, 2025, this album is a delightful collection of 21 tracks that span a rich hour and sixteen minutes of enchanting melodies and timeless classics. The album features a blend of traditional Irish tunes and well-known compositions, including pieces from iconic works like "Lord of the Dance" and "Riverdance on Broadway."
Erich Kunzel, renowned for his dynamic and engaging conducting style, brings a fresh and vibrant energy to these beloved songs. The album opens with the stirring "Celtic Dream" from "Lord of the Dance," setting the stage for a journey through the heart of Irish music. From the lively "The Irish Washerwoman" to the poignant "Danny Boy," each track is performed with precision and passion, showcasing the orchestra's versatility and Kunzel's expertise.
Highlights include the lively "Chasing the Fox," a multi-part suite that captures the excitement of a traditional fox hunt, and the soothing "Too-Ra-Loo-Ra-Loo-Ra (That's an Irish Lullaby)," a timeless lullaby that will resonate with listeners of all ages. The album also features beautiful arrangements of traditional songs like "A Piper Celebration" and "The Last Rose of Summer," each bringing a unique flavor to the collection.
"Sláinte: Irish Songs for St. Patrick's Day" is not just an album; it's an experience that pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of Ireland. Whether you're a fan of traditional Irish music or simply looking for a delightful collection of orchestral pieces, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Celtic Dream (From "Lord of the Dance")Ronan Hardiman, Erich Kunzel, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra
Cry of the Celts (From "Lord of the Dance")Ronan Hardiman, Erich Kunzel, Liz Knowles, Kieran O'Hare, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra
Traditional: O'Farrell's Welcome to LimerickTraditional, Erich Kunzel, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra
Traditional: Simple GiftsTraditional, Erich Kunzel, James Galway, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra
Ball: A Little Bit of HeavenErnest R. Ball, J. Keirn Brennan, Erich Kunzel, John McDermott, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra
Horner: Irish Party in the Third Class (From "Titanic")James Horner, Will Jennings, Erich Kunzel, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra
The Countess Cathleen (From "Riverdance on Broadway")Bill Whelan, Erich Kunzel, Liz Knowles, Kieran O'Hare, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra
Chasing the Fox: The Fox - The Gathering - The Hunt Moves Off - Goodmorrow Fox - The Chase - The ReturnPaddy Moloney, Erich Kunzel, The Chieftains, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra
Colahan: Too-Ra-Loo-Ra-Loo-Ra (That's an Irish Lullaby) - Galway BayArthur Colahan, James Royce Shannon, Erich Kunzel, John McDermott, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra
Traditional: A Piper CelebrationTraditional, Erich Kunzel, Kieran O'Hare, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra
Celtic AngelsRobert Duncan, Erich Kunzel, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra
The Mummer's DanceLoreena McKennitt, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
Traditional: Steps from the Highlands (Based on "The Galway Piper" and "The Girl I Left Behind Me")Traditional, Erich Kunzel, Kieran O'Hare, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra
Traditional: Danny BoyTraditional, Erich Kunzel, John McDermott, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra
Traditional: The Last Rose of SummerTraditional, Erich Kunzel, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Timothy Lees
Traditional: The Irish WasherwomanTraditional, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
Giuliani: 6 Irish National Airs, Op. 125: No. 6, GarryowenMauro Giuliani, David Russell
Giuliani: 6 Irish National Airs, Op. 125: No. 5, My Lodging Is on the Cold GroundMauro Giuliani, David Russell
Giuliani: 6 Irish National Airs, Op. 125: No. 3, Miss BaillyMauro Giuliani, David Russell
Neil Gow's Lament for the Death of His Second Wife (Arr. D. Russell)Neil Gow, David Russell
Irish Tune from County Derry "Danny Boy"Joseph D. Price, James Horner, Will Jennings, Percy Grainger, Leonard Slatkin, St. Louis Symphony