A well-known Irish musical duo will play in Central Park Plaza on Wednesday, July 9 at 7:30 p.m.
For more than two decades, Brian FitzGerald and Martin McCormack, known as Switchback, have entertained crowds with their unique American roots - Celtic Soul blend of music. Brian and Martin play an exciting mix of mandolin, guitar and bass. Their harmonies have won them comparisons to famous duos such as the Louvin Brothers, the Everly Brothers and SImon and Garfunkel. Music Connection Magazine said of Switchback: "The words 'American Roots & Celtic Soul' only begin to describe this unusual act, whose vocal prowess is as pure as it is unique. There is no denying the stunning vocal blends that are achieved by this duo."
Their Celtic music is authentically Irish, drawing praise from such traditional players as Matt Malloy of the group the Chieftains. Ireland has taken Switchback to her heart, with performances at art centers throughout the country and appearances on RTE (Raidio Teilifis Eireann). At the same time, their music is modern Celtic, with songs capturing the Irish of today as accurately as the Pogues and singer-songwriters like Christy Moore.
On top of their usual tour schedule, Switchback regularly presents outreach programs for schools, community events, senior citizen groups and special needs audiences. They offer outreach programs on Celtic music, songwriting and music appreciation as well as music residencies.
The all-ages concert is free to the public, as are all concerts that are a part of the "Concerts in the Park" series.