Inspired by her passion for Irish music, which she subsequently pursued twice round the globe, Karen Ashbrook built her first hammered dulcimer as a high school project in 1976. In the early 80's, she moved to the D.C. area and was soon performing with the Celtic band Ceoltoiri and the Jewish group King David's Harp. She met and began playing with Belgian multi-instrumentalist Paul Oorts in 1995, and their musical partnership culminated in marriage. Paul and Karen now tour and record together and have several recordings on the Maggie's Music label.
Tonight’s concert features Karen’s rich musical relationships with Ceoltoiri members Sue Richards and Connie McKenna, David Scheim of King David’s Harp, guest musician Steve Bloom, and, of course, her husband! Happy anniversary, Karen!

• www.karenashbrook.com