Celtic guitarist returns to Monticello library

     The Monticello Public Library is pleased to once again welcome acclaimed Celtic fingerstyle guitarist Jerry Barlow in concert. The event will be held on Thursday, June 28, at 6:30 p.m. at the library, located at 205 E. Grand St. The program is sponsored by the Friends of the Monticello Public Library, and is free to the public.

     Barlow is a performer and storyteller. His unique and skillfully delivered repertoire incorporates favorite traditional pieces as well as his own Celtic-inspired compositions. His expressive arrangements of lively jigs, spirited reels, and haunting airs is described as music to soothe the soul, warm the heart and lift the spirit.

     “In concert, Jerry brings traditional Celtic tunes alive by sharing the history, humor and legends behind the music,” said Scott Beach, director of Colorado Celtic Entertainment. “Jerry Barlow… a performer who is skilled, funny and riveting. Out of the many musicians performing today, the vast majority is skilled in either performing on their instrument or in entertaining an audience. It’s very rare and extremely enjoyable to see a musician at the very top of his craft in both areas.”

     Barlow’s latest CD, “Voyage of Hope,” was released in early September. It features songs about the Irish immigration to America in the mid-1800s. His 2011 recording, “Fields and Fences,” was one of five nominees for Instrumental Album of the Year by the Independent Music Awards. The Indie Acoustic Project selected the title song from Barlow’s CD, “Bring Down the Storm,” as “one of the best songs of 2006.”

     Music from all of Barlow’s recordings can be heard regularly on National Public Radio stations. He has been featured in “Fingerstyle Guitar” magazine, and was profiled in “Celtic Connection.”