THE Manx Gaelic unaccompanied choir Caarjyn Cooidjagh had an "excellent experience" performing in Asturias, northern Spain at the invitation of the Aviles Beltaine Inter-Celtic Festival recently.
The 13-strong choir led by Annie Kissack performed alongside choirs such as Cor Caerdydd (Cardiff mixed voice choir), Port Talbot Cymric Male Choir and Cor Meibion Y Fflint (Flint Male Voice Choir).
Dancers and musicians from all over the Celtic world were represented and Manx musicians met up with old friends in the form of Kekezza (Cornish dance group) and Breton singer Lors Landat.
Both acts had previously featured at the Island’s own Yn Chruinnaght Inter-Celtic Festival.
Caarjyn Cooidjagh sings almost exclusively in Manx Gaelic and performs arrangements of traditional and newly composed material.
Its director, Annie Kissack, works hard to craft imaginative and varied arrangements, which were greatly appreciated by the crowds in Asturias.
Annie said: "The choir sang brilliantly and it was an excellent experience all round."
The choir performed at the Casa La Cultura and at outdoor venues, generating renewed interest in the Isle of Man as a Celtic nation.
In addition to its own fundraising it received help from the Isle of Man Arts Council for the trip.
