Patrick Ball
An Irish storyteller once asked, "Is there anything sadder in this world of ours than poverty of words?" In our current climate of upside mortgages, shaky markets, and broken promises, many of us would disagree, but Patrick Ball, Celtic harpist and storyteller, understands the storyteller's view.
"He lived in an Ireland which was cruelly burdened by poverty and oppression, where sadnesses and deprivations were legion. Yet, to him, the lack of words was an unimaginable loss. For in words, in stories nurtured and spoken, he not only found light and warmth, laughter and exaltation, he found the very continuation of his culture, of his land, of himself," wrote Ball.
Patrick Ball is considered one of the finest Celtic harpers and storytellers in the world. The St. Petersburg Times described his performance of O'Carolan's Farewell to Music" as ""richly theatrical...the spell he casts is hauntingly beautiful...Ball embodies his subject with uncanny realism...a gem of a show." Variety wrote "Hauntingly beautiful ballads and lilting storytelling...it might spring from the 17th century...but the play seems as current as the latest troubles in Belfast...Patrick Ball's acting is fine, his musicianship outstanding...A small gem."
Patrick Ball tours extensively throughout the United States and Canada. He has recorded nine instrumental and three spoken word albums which together have sold more than a half million copies. He has earned national awards in both the music and spoken word categories. Both the Zellerbach Family Fund and the California Arts Council have awarded grants to Patrick. He is also a recipient of the Circle of Excellence Award from the National Storytelling Association.
Patrick Ball's harp and words will leave you enriched, uplifted, and thoroughly entertained.
Sandy's Thoughts -- What you may not read in the Press...
Patrick Ball is kind, easygoing, and a true professional. He is also a busy man. His schedule had him moving from one place to the next in rapid succession, so we didn't have much of a chance to socialize. Still, he found time to talk with his audience and sign autographs. I enjoyed his performance of "The Fine Beauty of the Island" immensely, so I bought that CD as well as his "Music on the Wind" CD. I wasn't sure how well I would like a CD full of harp music. I thought it might be too much of a good thing at best and aural Sominex at worst. I needn't have worried. I hate to use words like "enchanting" and "hauntingly beautiful," but in the case of Patrick Ball's music, they fit. It's hard to describe. You simply have to hear him -- and you should. Visit Patrick on MySpace
