January 18, 2004, the Chieftains came to Springfield, MO for a performance at Juanita K Performing Arts Center. The Friday “Weekender” section of the newspaper interviewed the Chieftains and they put out a welcome to all Irish musicians in the area to meet with them for a jam session at 5:30pm before the show.
That evening, 2 hours before the show began, we watched the Chieftains’ sound check, then Paddy Moloney met with us (about 12 musicians and 2 Irish dancers) to choose several reels that we would perform with them during their encore! This was such and incredible experience I will never forget. Paddy, Kevin, Sean and Matt signed my bodhrán. Unforgettable – a chance of a lifetime.
We could not take pictures during the show, but we met with the band afterwards and had pictures taken then. As soon as I can locate them I will get them posted.
6:50 pm
Nancy, about 12 musicians showed up but only about 8 of us took the stage. Some of them decided not to go on.