Events

Crossroads Cultural Connections will present an evening of internationally acclaimed traditional music with Grosse Isle on Sunday, March 22 at Bishop Hill Creative Commons.

The evening will begin at 6:00 PM with an optional potluck dinner, giving guests the opportunity to gather and share a meal before the performance. Those who wish to participate are encouraged to bring a dish to share, though it is not required. The concert will begin at 7:00 PM.

Grosse Isle is a celebrated trio of traditional musicians from Québec and Ireland, blending rich musical traditions from both cultures. Their music tells stories drawn from the folklore and shared histories of these regions through original compositions and traditional songs performed in Irish, French, and English.

Their fifth studio album, Homérique, explores legendary characters from Irish and Québec folklore while reflecting the deep cultural connections forged during the mass migration of Irish immigrants through Grosse Île in the St. Lawrence River during the Great Famine — a powerful historical meeting of two cultures that inspired the group’s name.

The trio features All-Ireland Champion uilleann piper Fiachra O’Regan, acclaimed fiddler, singer, and composer Sophie Lavoie, and Aldor Emerging Artist Award–winning guitarist François-Félix Roy. Together they create a dynamic and expressive sound that highlights the artistry of each musician while honoring centuries-old traditions.

Grosse Isle has performed widely across Canada, the United States, and internationally, with notable appearances at Celtic Connections in Scotland (2022 & 2023), WOMEX in Portugal (2021), Milwaukee Irish Fest (2023), and the Canada Games (2022).

Their recordings have earned widespread praise from folk and traditional music critics around the world. Their debut album Un Canadien Errant (2016) was described as “splendid stuff” by Songlines magazine (UK). Their follow-up Portraits (2018) was called “one of the downright most enjoyable albums to have come this way for a considerable time” by Froots magazine (UK). Their 2021 release The Bonesetter was hailed as “nothing short of fantastic” by Roots Music Canada. The trio has also received numerous nominations from the Canadian Folk Music Awards, ADISQ, and GAMIQ.

Presented by Crossroads Cultural Connections, the concert continues the organization’s mission of bringing world-class music and cultural experiences to the region.

The event is open to all ages. A donation of $20-30 is suggested, with 100% of the proceeds going to the performers.