Album Notes

"At a session or ceili, great tunes inspire more. Before you know it, the bar stops serving drinks, but the tunes go on..til the wee hours." Those moments gave rise to "til the wee hours", the second release by Round the House, Tucson's highly sought-after Irish traditional band.

This cd will transport you into the session circle with its collection of Irish songs and dance music: jigs, reels, slip jigs, barn dances, and a lovely waltz. Several recently composed tunes, including a slip jig by Sharon, are found in the tune medleys. Sets feature several solo performances, which nicely contrast with the overall full band arrangements. Dave's musical sensitivity is expressed in the "Vanagon Waltz", which is followed by his powerful rendition of the reel, "Salvation". Sharon?s beautifully paced and executed versions of a set of barn dances is a highlight of the recording. The songs on this cd provide the framework around the tunes. Claire's singing explores a broad scope of moods: the powerful "Spanish Lady", the poignant "A Stor mo Chroi", and the catchy and exuberant "Irish Molly O". Her ornamentation and phrasing convey an emotional depth, which listeners will find compelling.

Professionally recorded, and co-produced by Roger Landes, the cd combines the vitality of a live performance with the clarity and excellence of studio recording.

Round the House won the Tucson Area Musician's Award, 1st Place for Traditional/Ethnic Music in 2002 and again in 2003.

Round the House was selected for inclusion on the Artists Roster with the Arizona Commission on the Arts and the Western States Arts Federation (WESTAF).


Dave Firestine, mandolin, bouzouki, banjo, bodhran, vocal
Dave plays with a driving rhythm that makes feet start tapping at concerts, dances, sessions, and a multitude of other special occasions. His style is eclectic, incorporating a blend of old time and Irish styles. A multi-instrumentalist, he plays mandolin, banjo, bouzouki, bodhran, and guitar and he sings too!

Sharon Goldwasser: fiddle
Sharon's fiddling brings lift and a genuine Irish approach to Round the House. She adds that touch of ?nyeah? that characterizes the Irish traditional style. Her variations and ornamentation give the tunes movement and her soft drones form a backdrop for the vocal pieces.

Mike Smith, guitar
Mike's approach to the guitar gives him the breadth needed for accompanying a slow ballad, a lively song, or rhythmic backing for dances tunes. Mike chooses interesting chord progressions and picking techniques to give the Irish tunes a unique flavor and he accompanies without overwhelming the melody or the vocalist.

Claire Jamieson Zucker, lead vocal, bodhran
Claire's songs are a highlight, whether she is singing powerfully with the full band or a cappella with a clear liquid touch. Claire sings in both Irish Gaelic and English and her ornamentation and phrasing make her songs personal and moving. Claire?s bodhran accompaniment features the tune-sensitivity needed for Irish melodies.