Celebrating the incredible milestone of 40 years as one of planet’s most heralded Irish ensembles, Cherish the Ladies have won the hearts of audiences worldwide for their rousing blend of traditional music with captivating vocal interpretations and propulsive step dancing. Bandleader Joanie Madden has won much-deserved recognition from the National Endowment for the Arts as one of this country’s most important tradition bearers; in presenting her National Heritage Fellowship, the nation’s highest honor for folk and traditional artists, the NEA hailed her as: “One of the great flute and whistle players of her generation and a leading presence in the advancement of traditional Irish music, from its community grassroots to its modern presentation in the international concert hall.”

Under her leadership the 6 women comprising Cherish the Ladies create an incredible entertaining experience brimming with sheer talent and jovial merriment. The group features a stellar lineup that along with Madden includes All-Ireland champions Mirella Murray (accordion), Nollaig Casey, (fiddle) and Kathleen Boyle (piano) along with the nimble finger-work of Mary Coogan (guitar) and the beautiful vocals of County Clare songstress Kate Purcell (lead vocals, guitar). In addition to the incredible musicianship and vocal talents, the amazing footwork of champion Irish Step dancers add their magic to every performance.

Over the years, Cherish the Ladies storied career includes 18 albums, a Grammy nomination, over 3000 performances world-wide including 300 guest appearances with leading symphony orchestras. Both Madden and her band have amassed a long list of awards at home and in Ireland, including being forever immortalized with a street named in their honor in the Bronx. No matter how far from home, their continued success as one of the best-loved Irish groups rests on their blend of virtuosic instrumentals, beautiful vocals, traditional and original arrangements, and stunning step dancing—presented with extraordinary talent, creativity, and humor.