FARMINGTON — New England Celtic Arts presents Cape Breton’s super group, Còig, at Old South Congregational Church in Farmington,  on Thursday Dec. 8 as a benefit for the annual ECU HEAT program. The group will also perform at the Green Church in Mexico, Wednesday, Dec. 7.  Curtain is at 7 p.m. A jam session, open to the public, will begin at 6 p.m. in both locations.

 

Còig, one of Atlantic Canada’s premiere traditional groups, is an ensemble of East Coast musicians originally forming to promote the Celtic Colours International Festival. In one explosive coming together, what were once solo acts on stage have  amalgamated into one electrifying super group, picked as Penguin Eggs magazine’s 2014 No. 1 New Discovery internationally.

With the fiery Celtic style as its musical core, Còig easily shifts between century-old tunes of past generations to original and contemporary compositions, featuring the band’s range of over a dozen instruments (vocals, fiddles, piano, guitar, banjo, mandolin, viola, bouzouki, whistles, and more). With driving tunes, haunting songs, and infectious energy, Còig is an unparalleled musical force.

 

Coig has won  more than 30 nominations and awards the group’s debut album won Traditional/Roots Recording of the Year at Nova Scotia Music Week: the Canadian Folk Award; and the East Coast Music Award for the same category in 2015.

 

Their Christmas album ,”Carols,” puts a new spin on some very traditional tunes and songs. Featured are: “The Wexford Carol;” “In the Bleak Midwinter;” “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring;” “Oh Holy Night;” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas;” and “Swingle Bells.”

 

The event in Farmington will also be a benefit for the annual ECU HEAT program in Franklin County. ECU HEAT is a fuel-assistance ministry for low-income neighbors who live in Franklin County. Dubbed “$50 for 50,” the program provides one 50-gallon fuel delivery per heating season. The applicant pays $50 toward the cost and the Franklin County Ecumenical Heating Fund pays the balance due. All forms of fuel energy are covered from oil to wood. At last year’s concert $2,700 was raised. Last winter 543 people in 262 households were warmed by the generosity of neighbors who care.

 

The Mexico Congregational Church is at 163 Main St. For reservations call 207-562-4445 and the Old South Congregational Church is at 235 Maine St., Farmington. Call 207-491-5919. Reservations are strongly suggested at both locations. All tickets are $20.   FMI: online at  www.necelticarts.com.