This March 17, get ready for traditional Irish tunes, exhilarating Celtic roots music and delicious Irish fare at the Sportsmen’s Tavern (326 Amherst St, Buffalo). St Patrick’s Day will feel like a full on kitchen party with two shows from Canadian Celtic Folk band, Maggie’s Wake, as they wind up their St Patrick’s Month tour at the legendary Buffalo venue.
Tara Dunphy, lead singer, songwriter and multi instrumentalist of Maggie’s Wake, describes their show as “exciting and wild at times, heartfelt and moving at others, there is a true feel of Ireland and a taste of the wider world influence in our music.” Fresh off their nomination for a Canadian Folk Music Award, to be announced next month, Maggie’s Wake are making their Buffalo debut at the Sportsmen’s Tavern and you can expect fiery tunes on twin fiddles, soaring harmonies, traditional Irish flutes and tin whistles.
While there is no mistaking the celtic backbone of the band, it’s not surprising that there is a traditional country element in there as well, considering Tara’s background with her honky tonk band The Rizdales (who have graced the Sportsmen’s stage many times), her decade playing fiddle with Wanda Jackson and her many Ameripolitan and Academy of Western Artists nominations. The underlying rhythms are far reaching, with jazz and world music influences added in to the incredible instrumental sets penned by Maggie’s Wake co-founder, composer and fiddler Lindsay Schindler.
The band also includes upright bassist Andrew Kosty and guitarist Ken Palmer. Maggie’s Wake will be playing songs from their self titled debut album as well as traditional Irish folk music and tunes. Expect toe tapping, hand clapping and dancing in the aisles – when the spirit of Ireland takes hold, there’s no stopping it!
Where: Sportsmen’s Tavern 326 Amherst St, Buffalo
When: Monday, March 17, 2025 2pm & 6pm
Traditional Irish Food will be available all day!