The Ripon Arts League has scheduled “Golden Bough” to bring Celtic musical entertainment to the Ripon community on Lincoln’s birthday, Tuesday, Feb. 12.

Rooted in the traditional Celtic music of the seven Celtic nations including Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and Cornwall, Golden Bough has become a popular and in-demand group on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.

Since their formation some 30 years ago, the trio of modern day minstrels has traveled great distances to numerous countries to bring their music to “enthusiastic” folk fans the world over.  Backing themselves on an array of acoustic instruments such as the Celtic harp, guitar, octave-mandolin, mandolin, accordion, violin, penny-whistle and bodhran, they blend their voices in the pristine harmonies that have become a Golden Bough trademark.

To date they have released over 30 recordings.  In the recording studio, as well as on stage, Golden Bough captures the essence and joy of traditional music.  For more information on Golden Bough go online and contact Margie at Margie@GoldenBoughMusic.com.

On March 12 “The Saddle Cats” are scheduled to perform at Ripon High School, the last RAL concert production of the fiscal year.  The four member western swing band is based in the San Francisco Bay community and is led by Richard Chon.  Their music will remind you of the Bob Wells era.

Chon and his fiddle come from the Bakersfield area.  He is a past member of the Sons of the San Joaquin.  Bobby Black has been playing the steel guitar for 49 years.  Gordon Clegg joins Black with his guitar.  Then Bing Nathan, bassist, rounds out the foursome. 

RAL organizers say the audience is sure to enjoy a variety of music from a Texas rhythm to a Benny Goodman sound, but always with a distinctive Bob Wells soft swing.

The next season is scheduled to begin on Sept. 19 with Jason Coleman/Floyd Cramer with other offerings that will continue through March 25 of next year.

The total cost of RAL memberships for all five annual concerts is $30 per person.  For more information or to sign up for next year’s programs call Jackie Ballatore at (209) 599-3476 or Joe O’Leary at (209) 599-3223.