Donna Fitch
Bedford, TX
It all began in Donna's childhood when she organized her friends to produce backyard talent shows for the neighborhood mothers. Since that time, she has obtained a broad range of musical and acting experience, including opera, oratorio, Broadway show tunes and gospel. However, early on, folk music captured her heart. Becoming "Celticized" over 26 years ago led to immersion in traditional and contemporary Celtic music from Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and England. Having a special interest in Celtic connections and derivatives, Donna includes songs from Australia, Canada and United States as well. As the "muse strikes," Donna writes her own songs and parodies. She always encourages her audiences to sing along to familiar choruses. Donna is extremely pleased to return to CelticFest this September.
Workshop Bio
After becoming a member of Southwest Celtic Music Association, Dallas, TX in mid-eighties, I became aware of similarities between Celtic and folk songs and country/western music. I grew up in at a time when Irish-American music was popular along with folk music sung by Burl Ives, many of which were derived from Celtic areas. This led me to explore further Celtic songs in America. I have drawn on research done by others as well as my own to develop this workshop, presenting examples of Celtic songs during various periods, including how they may have changed in the process. At the end of my workshop, attendees will be given handouts listing references and sources for further exploration.