Irish Tenors Perform at Westfield State University

On Monday, December 9, 2024, the internationally acclaimed trio, The Irish Tenors, graced Westfield State University with their celebrated Irish repertoire, delivering an evening of soul-stirring music and festive holiday charm. The performance, which commenced at 7:30 p.m., was held in the intimate and elegant Dever Stage within Parenzo Hall, marking a crowning jewel in the University’s cultural offerings.

This dazzling event was made possible through the generous collaboration of community members and local businesses, whose collective support brought this world-class performance to the heart of Westfield State’s campus.

Dr. Linda Thompson, President of Westfield State, highlighted the honor of being able to host trio. “The Irish Tenors have performed for presidents and prime ministers and millions of people throughout the world, and we were so fortunate to have them here at Westfield State University,” she said. “The history of Ireland and its impact on our culture here in Western Massachusetts is very much appreciated and well-established. Our communities and neighborhoods are made up of thousands of people who understand and cherish the heritage and history of the Emerald Isle and have direct ancestry to its people. We are committed to developing and maintaining our cultural ties to Ireland and are further creating opportunities for student, faculty, and alumni exchanges of experience and learning. The spirited, engaging, and meaningful performance of these musicians, along with our own pianist Scott Bailey, was delightful and will likely resonate with audience members for decades to come.” 

The Irish Tenors, hailed as the undisputed kings of Celtic music, have been mesmerizing audiences since their 1998 debut in a groundbreaking television special from Ireland. Their first U.S. televised performance, the breathtaking "Live from Ellis Island," hosted by the illustrious Martin Sheen, solidified their position as global sensations. With ten best-selling CDs to their credit, The Irish Tenors have enchanted listeners across the globe, performing alongside symphony orchestras in legendary venues such as Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden, Carnegie Hall, the Hollywood Bowl, and the iconic Sydney Opera House.

As cherished musical ambassadors of Ireland, The Irish Tenors—Anthony Kearns, Ronan Tynan, and Declan Kelly—have serenaded Presidents, Prime Ministers, and millions of devoted fans. Their spellbinding Irish repertoire, coupled with sweeping secular melodies and vibrant holiday favorites, creates a sonic tapestry rich in emotion and grandeur. Their symphonic backing and flawless tenor harmonies weave an immersive auditory experience that has established them as one of the most beloved acts in PBS history.

This unforgettable performance was part of their resplendent 25th anniversary tour, which debuted in Ireland in January 2023. The tour illuminates the trio’s extraordinary vocal artistry and magnetic stage presence, offering audiences a radiant live experience that continues to captivate hearts and inspire admiration worldwide.