Quebecois band at Skye

REGION -- New England Celtic Arts will present Raz de Marée in concert at Skye Theatre Performing Arts Center in South Carthage on Wednesday and at Unity College Centre for the Performing Arts in Unity on Thursday.

Curtain at Skye is 7 p.m. and at UCCPA is 7:30 p.m. There is a pre-show jam session one hour prior to curtain at both venues. Audience members are encouraged to bring their instruments and jam with the artists for a few minutes before the show.

Raz de Marée, or Tidal Wave's members, Sabin Jacques and Eric Favreau both from Quebec; Acadian, Rachel Aucoin on piano and vocals; and from New England, Stuart Kenney on bass and banjo, invite cultures to meet and share a passion for traditional music and dance. Since 2003, Raz de Marée has evolved as a dance band, carrying through time the most relevant aspect of Quebec traditional, instrumental music, playing for live dancing. In that sense they are not reflecting the past but writing the book of a strong living current. Their liveliness and outgoing personalities have led them to teach workshops and school programs, as well as perform concerts on the folk music planet and wherever Franco-Americans need to connect with their roots.

Their music is deeply rooted, authentic and heartfelt. Relying primarily on a traditional repertoire, their music is contagiously energetic and sensitive. They propel dancers and audiences into a world of liveliness. The band’s impeccable performances make them well in demand for American festival stages and have grown to be one of the best dance bands in the country.

Marche du St-Laurent, their latest album, features inspired melodies, both bound to be danced to and listened to with pure enjoyment. Served by flawless execution and backed by a deliciously imaginative accompaniment, the album shows maturity and a rare blend of excellent musicianship.

Skye Theater is located three miles West of East Dixfield village at 2 Highland Dr. off Winter Hill Road and Rt. 2 in South Carthage. UCCPA is at 42 Depot St. in Unity. Ticket price is $15 at the door. For reservations call Skye Theatre at 562-4445 or UCCPA at 948-7469. Reservations are strongly suggested at both venues.