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Transatlantic Sessions
Transatlantic Sessions
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Transatlantic Sessions musical co-directors Aly Bain and Jerry Douglas

Transatlantic Sessions is the collective title for a series of musical productions by Glasgow-based Pelicula Films Ltd, funded by- and produced for BBC Scotland, BBC Four[1] and RTÉ of Ireland.[2] The productions comprise collaborative live performances by various leading folk, bluegrass and country musicians from both sides of the North Atlantic, playing music from Scotland, Ireland, England and North America, who congregate under the musical direction of Aly Bain and Jerry Douglas to record and film a set of half-hour TV episodes.[3] The Television director is Mike Alexander[4] and the producer is Douglas Eadie.[5]

Following the end of the TV series there has been an annual touring version, with similar format, starting at the Celtic Connections festival in Glasgow, then visiting venues in Scotland and England.[6] These received critical acclaim in the press.[7][8][9] [10]. Retrieved 23 February 2026 .

The six series have been released in both CD and DVD format by Whirlie Records.[11]

Background

[edit]

The first (Original) Transatlantic Sessions episode was produced in 1995 - a project conceived at that time by Douglas Eadie, Mike Alexander and Aly Bain.[4] Subsequent sessions were produced in 1998, 2007, 2009, 2011 and 2013. To date, the series comprises the six sessions shown below in the History (listed in chronological order).

The producer and directors select a special setting for each session – typically a country manor, lodge or hotel in Scotland where the musicians perform and stay while the session is recorded (see also below). Each session was filmed in a different location with the exception of Series 4 and 5, which were filmed in the same house (the hunting lodge at Glen Lyon near Aberfeldy, Perthshire). Series 6 was filmed and recorded at a location on the banks of Loch Lomond.

History

[edit]

Participating musicians vary from session to session but, since the first session, a format has been followed where a core of musicians forms the House Band and each session features additional guest artists.[1]

The Original Transatlantic Sessions (TS1)

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Montgreenan House, where The Original Transatlantic Sessions production was recorded in 1995

(1995 / directed by Aly Bain and Jay Ungar). Recorded at Montgreenan Mansion House Hotel in Ayrshire.[4]

TS1 Programmes

[edit]

Main performers in brackets (not necessarily the composers).

  • Programme One: Wheels of Love (Emmylou Harris, Iris DeMent, Mary Black), MacIlmoyle (Aly Bain, Jay Ungar, Russ Barenberg, Molly Mason, Jim Sutherland), Ready for the Storm (Kathy Mattea, Dougie MacLean), Spencer the Rover (John Martyn, Danny Thompson), Big Bug Shuffle (Russ Barenberg), Black Diamond Strings (Guy Clark, Emmylou Harris), Guitar Talk (Michelle Wright, Karen Matheson), Ashokan Farewell (Jay Ungar, Aly Bain)
  • Programme Two: May You Never (John Martyn, Kathy Mattea), Big Scioty (Jay Ungar, Aly Bain, Molly Mason, Russ Barenberg, Jerry Douglas), Ta Mo Chleamhnas Deanta, (Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh, Donal Lunny), Grey Eagle (Mark O'Connor), Talk to Me of Mendocino (Kate & Anna McGarrigle, Karen Matheson), Mexican Monterey (Savourna Stevenson, Aly Bain, Danny Thompson), By The Time It Gets Dark (Mary Black, Emmylou Harris, Declan Sinnot), Auld Lang Syne (Rod Paterson, Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh, Martyn Bennett)
  • Programme Three: The Loving Time (Mary Black, Emmylou Harris, Declan Sinnott), Goodbye Liza Jane (Jay Ungar, Aly Bain, Russ Barenberg, Jerry Douglas, Molly Mason), Iain Ghlinn Cuaich (Karen Matheson, Donald Shaw), Turning Away (Dougie MacLean, Kathy Mattea), Boulavogue / Mrs McCleod (Davy Spillane, Aly Bain, Russ Barenberg), Let the Mystery Be (Iris DeMent), Wild Mountain Thyme (Dick Gaughan, Emmylou Harris, Kate & Anna McGarrigle, Rufus Wainwright), Far From Home / Big John MacNeil (House Band, Mark O'Connor, Martyn Bennett, Charlie McKerron, Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh, Cathal McConnell)
  • Programme Four: Goin' Back to Harlan (Anna & Kate McGarrigle, Emmylou Harris), Daire's Dream (Davy Spillane, Jerry Douglas, Russ Barenberg), Canan Nan Gaidheal (Karen Matheson, Donald Shaw), Jim's Jig / Little Cascades / Fox in the Town (Simon Thoumire, Jim Sutherland), Farewell, Farewell (Mary Black, Declan Sinnott), Cat in the Bag (Mark O'Connor, Russ Barenberg, Donal Lunny, Danny Thompson), Our Town (Iris DeMent), Ronfleuse Gobeil (Jay Ungar, Aly Bain, Molly Mason, Russ Barenberg, Jim Sutherland)
  • Programme Five: I Will (Kathy Mattea, Dougie MacLean), Will the Circle be Unbroken (Michelle Wright, Iris DeMent, Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh), You Low Down Dirty Dog (Jay Ungar, Aly Bain, Russ Barenberg, Jerry Douglas, Molly Mason), Gentle Annie (Kate & Anna McGarrigle, Rod Paterson), Jesse Polka (Mark O'Connor, Phil Cunningham, Russ Barenberg, Donal Lunny, Danny Thompson), Green Rolling Hills (Emmylou Harris, Mary Black), The Dark Woman of the Glen (Cathal McConnell, Aly Bain, Phil Cunningham, Russ Barenberg), Big Muff (John Martyn, Danny Thompson)
  • Programme Six: Hard Times (Kate & Anna McGarrigle, Rufus Wainwright, Emmylou Harris, Mary Black, Karen Matheson, Rod Paterson), MacCrimmon's Lament (Martyn Bennett), Dublin Blues (Guy Clark, Karen Matheson), Sweet is the Melody (Iris DeMent), A Maiden's Prayer (Aly Bain, Jay Ungar, Molly Mason, Russ Barenberg, Jerry Douglas, Jim Sutherland), Don't Want to Know (John Martyn, Danny Thompson), For No One (Emmylou Harris, Dave Spillane), Scotland (House Band, Mark O'Connor, Martyn Bennett, Charlie McKerron, Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh, Cathal McConnell)
  • Programme Seven: Old Fashioned Waltz (Emmylou Harris, Kate & Anna McGarrigle), Clyde to Sandyhook (Savourna Stevenson, Aly Bain), Dark as a Dungeon (Guy Clark, Rod Paterson), The Lover's Waltz (Molly Mason, Jay Ungar, Aly Bain), Both Sides the Tweed (Dick Gaughan, Emmylou Harris), The Reasons Why I'm Gone (Michelle Wright, Karen Matheson), Uncle Sam / Rain on Olivia Town (Jerry Douglas), This Love Will Carry (Dougie MacLean, Kathy Mattea)

Transatlantic Sessions 2

[edit]

(1998 / directed by Aly Bain and Jerry Douglas). Recorded at Raemoir House Hotel, Banchory, Aberdeenshire.[3]

TS2 Programmes

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Main performers in brackets (not necessarily the composers).

  • Programme One: The Blue Train (Maura O'Connell, James Grant, Nanci Griffith), A Simple Life/traditional reel (Ricky Skaggs), Piobaireachid Dhomhnaill Dhuibh (Ishbel Macaskill, Iain MacDonald), He Got All the Whiskey (John Martyn, Eddi Reader), Magic Foot (Sharon Shannon, Russ Barenberg), Boots of Spanish Leather (Nanci Griffith), Eunice Two-Step (Michael Doucet, Sharon Shannon)
  • Programme Two: Waiting for the Federals (Aly Bain), Who Knows Where the Time Goes (Nanci Griffith, Karen Matheson, James Grant, Maura O'Connell), Violet Tulloch - Queen of Lerwick (Aly Bain, Jerry Douglas, Russ Barenberg, Donald Shaw), The World is What You Make It (Paul Brady, Karen Matheson, Fiona Kennedy), Evangeline (James Grant, Karen Matheson, Maura O'Connell), Jolie Blonde (Michael Doucet), Talk About Suffering/traditional reel (Ricky Skaggs)
  • Programme Three: Trouble in the Fields (Maura O'Connell, Nanci Griffith), Bachelor's Walk/The Congress (Breda Smyth), Footsteps Fall (Eddi Reader, Boo Hewerdine), Bonaparte's Retreat (Aly Bain), Seven Year Ache (Rosanne Cash, Radney Foster), Excuse Me Mister (John Martyn), There's Always Sunday (Karen Matheson, James Grant, Maura O'Connell)
  • Programme Four: Hummingbird (Eddi Reader, Boo Hewerdine), Road to Aberdeen (Nanci Griffith), Urban Air (Ronan Browne), Storms Are on the Ocean (Sharon White, Ricky Skaggs), La Danse de la Vie (Michael Doucet, Sharon Shannon), Ae Fond Kiss (Karen Matheson, Paul Brady), God Knows When (Radney Foster)
  • Programme Five: Nach Truach Leat Mi Stun Eirinn (Fiona Kennedy, Karen Matheson), Western Lift / Glass of Beer (Sharon Shannon), Cure for Life (James Grant, Karen Matheson), Marriage Made in Hollywood (Paul Brady, Karen Matheson), A Tribute to Paeder O'Donnell / Takarasaka (Jerry Douglas), God Speed (Radney Foster)
  • Programme Six: Forty Shades of Green (Rosanne Cash, Paul Brady), Passing the Bar (Jerry Douglas), My Father's Son (Ricky Skaggs), Les Veuves de la Coulee (Russ Barenberg, Aly Bain), Arthur McBride and the Sergeant (Paul Brady), Always Will (Nanci Griffith, Ricky Skaggs, Sharon White), Nobody Wins (Radney Foster)
  • Programme Seven: Return to the Brandywine (Russ Barenberg, Aly Bain), September When it Comes (Rosanne Cash, John Leventhal), Sanseptique Set: Domhnall Dubh An Domhnallaich / Thoir A Nall Ailean Thugam / Senseptique (Tommy Hayes, Fiona Kennedy, Karen Matheson), Down by the Sally Gardens (Maura O'Connell, Karen Matheson), The Mansion on the Hill (Sharon White, Ricky Skaggs), Solid Air (John Martyn, Danny Thompson), Puirt A Beul set: O Mhisgh A'Chuir A Nollaig Oirnn / Cape Breton Port A Beul / Ann MacKeachnie's Favoutire / Bealach A'Chara (Iain MacDonald)

Transatlantic Sessions 3

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(2007 / directed by Jerry Douglas and Aly Bain). Recorded at Strathgarry House in Perthshire.[12]

TS3 Programmes

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Main performers in brackets (not necessarily the composers).

  • Programme One: Sophie's Dancing Feet / Andy Brown's Reel (Aly Bain, Jenna Reid, Dónal Lunny), Saint Teresa (Joan Osborne), The Lakes of Pontchartrain (Paul Brady), The Drummers of England (Russ Barenberg), Puirt A Beul / I Bhi A Da / 'S Ioma Rud A Chunna Mi / Chateid Fionnlaigh A Dh'eige / Cairistion Nighean Eoghainn (Karen Matheson, Donald Shaw), The Open Door (Darrell Scott), The Swedish Jig / Untitled Jig (Sharon Shannon, Jim Murray, Gerry O'Connor)
  • Programme Two: Li'l Ro Ro / Little Martha / A Monkey Let the Hogs Out (Jerry Douglas), Back to Earth (Eddi Reader, Tim O'Brien), You'll Never Leave Harlan Alive (Darrell Scott), Hector the Hero (Jenna Reid, Aly Bain), Biodh An Deoch Seo An Laimh Mo Ruin (Julie Fowlis, Jenna Reid, Dónal Lunny), Garden Valley (Cara Dillon, Sam Lakeman), Woo'd An Marrit An A / Up Da Stroods Da Sailor Goes (Aly Bain, Jenna Reid, Bruce Molsky)
  • Programme Three: Through the Gates (Russ Barenberg), Holy Water (Joan Osborne, Iris DeMent, Bruce Molsky), The Neck Belly Reels (Sharon Shannon, Gerry O'Connor, Jim Murray), The Blackest Crow (Bruce Molsky, Julie Fowlis), Rainbow (Paul Brady, Eddi Reader, Karen Matheson), Crucan Na Bpaiste (Karen Matheson, Donald Shaw), The Crossing (Tim O'Brien)
  • Programme Four: Sir Aly B (Jerry Douglas), Oganaich Uir A Rinn M'Fhagail (Julie Fowlis), He Reached Down (Iris DeMent), Frank McConnell's Three Step (Phil Cunningham, Aly Bain), Look Down That Lonesome Road (Tim O'Brien), The Streets of Derry (Cara Dillon, Paul Brady, Sam Lakeman), Farewell to Uist / The Lochaber Badger / Rip the Calico (Fred Morrison, Michael McGoldrick, Dónal Lunny, Jerry Douglas)
  • Programme Five: St. Anne's Reel (Aly Bain, Jerry Douglas, Russ Barenberg, Todd Parks), One More Chance (Karen Matheson, Darrell Scott, Tim O'Brien, Donald Shaw), Swan LK 243 (Catriona MacKay), Don't Try to Please Me (Paul Brady, Cara Dillon, Tim O'Brien, Darrell Scott), Bothan Airigh Am Braigh Raithneach (Julie Fowlis, Bruce Molsky), Please Don't Tell Me How The Story Ends (Joan Osborne, Bruce Molsky), Shove the Pig's Foot a Little Bit Further into the Fire (Bruce Molsky, Sharon Shannon, Jim Murray)
  • Programme Six: Half Past Four (Bruce Molsky), Aye Waulken-O (Eddi Reader, Karen Matheson, Paul Brady), Brother Wind (Tim O'Brien), Sophie's Lullaby (Aly Bain, Jerry Douglas, Todd Parks, Donald Shaw), P Stands for Paddy (Cara Dillon, Paul Brady, Sam Lakeman), Shattered Cross (Darrell Scott, Paul Brady), Sail Away Ladies / Walking in the Parlour (Michael McGoldrick, Dónal Lunny, Bruce Molsky)
  • Bonus Tracks (on discs only): Eleanor of Usen (Phil Cunningham, Aly Bain), There's a Whole Lot of Heaven (Iris DeMent, Bruce Molsky), The Kansas City Hornpipe/Jarlath's Tune (Fred Morrison, Bruce Molsky)

Transatlantic Sessions 4

[edit]
Musicians preparing to record during the TS4 sessions

(2009 / directed by Jerry Douglas and Aly Bain). Recorded at the Glen Lyon hunting lodge in Perthshire.[13]

TS4 Programmes

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Main performers in brackets (not necessarily the composers).

  • Programme One: Fiddle Blast: The Teetotaller / Lord McDonald's Reel / High Road to Linton (Aly Bain, Stuart Duncan, Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh, Jenna Reid), Man of Constant Sorrow (Dan Tyminski), How She Does It (Allison Moorer), Glide (Jerry Douglas), Ged A Sheol Mi Air M'Aineol (Julie Fowlis), Millworker (James Taylor), Jewels of the Ocean / We're a Case, the Bunch of Us / Tommy & Ronnie's Double Tonic (Allan MacDonald)
  • Programme Two: Bleeding All Over You (Martha Wainwright), O'Farrell's Farewell to Limerick / Oot East by the Vong (Aly Bain & Dónal Lunny), Lassie Wi' the Lint-white Locks (Karen Matheson), Copperline (James Taylor), Maili Dhonn (James Graham), Flatwater Fran (Phil Cunningham), Mo Nion O (Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh)
  • Programme Three: The Boy Who Wouldn't Hoe Corn (Dan Tyminski), The Silver Tassie (Emily Smith), Paddy in the Smoke/Sporting Days of Easter / The Crosses of Annagh / Sporting Nell (Michael McGoldrick, Dezi Donnelly), Tower Song (Martha Wainwright), Gelnntain Ghlas' Ghaoth Dobhair (Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh), Bethany's Waltz (Jenna Reid), 500 Miles Away from Home (Rosanne Cash)
  • Programme Four: Mocking Bird (Allison Moorer), Lee Highway Blues (Stuart Duncan), Down in the Willow Garden (Dan Tyminski), Black is the Colour of my True Love's Eyes (Karan Casey), Kid on the Mountain / Sleep Soon in the Morning / The Reconciliation (Aly Bain), Worry Not (Liam Ó Maonlaí), Pandemonium of Pipers: Fhir A' Chinn Duibh / Una Bhan / Market Place of Inverness / Humours of Tulla / Foxhunter (Allan MacDonald & Ronan Browne)
  • Programme Five: Mary Rogers / Siun Ni Dhuibhir (Dónal Lunny & Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh), Secret Life of Roses (Rosanne Cash), Unionhouse Branch (Jerry Douglas), Caledonia (Emily Smith), The King's Shilling (Karan Casey), Carrickfergus (Allison Moorer)
  • Programme Six: Belfast to Boston (James Taylor), O Nach Eisdeadh Tu 'N Sgeul Le Aire (Karen Matheson), Lily Dale (Aly Bain, Stuart Duncan & Jerry Douglas), Motherless Children (Rosanne Cash), The Pleasant Beggar (Russ Barenberg), Mo Ghruagach Dhonn (Julie Fowlis), Work Song (Liam Ó Maonlaí)
  • Bonus Tracks (on discs only): Erin's Lovely Home (Karan Casey), Muireann's Jig (Niall Vallely, Mike McGoldrick & Dezi Donnelly), Black, Black, Black (Ronan Browne), Och Oin Chaileag (James Graham)

Transatlantic Sessions 5

[edit]
Group photo of the TS5 crew

(2011 / directed by Jerry Douglas and Aly Bain). Recorded at a hunting lodge at Glen Lyon near Aberfeldy in the Perthshire Highlands of Scotland.[5]

TS5 Programmes

[edit]

For each track, the main performer's name is shown in brackets (they are not necessarily the composer).

  • Programme One: The Boys of 25 / The Glass of Beer (Aly Bain), Goin' Down the Road Feelin Bad (Eric Bibb), Oran na Cloiche (Kathleen MacInnes), Falani (Béla Fleck), Leezie Lindsay (Eddi Reader), Boats up the River (Dirk Powell), Lay My Burden Down (Alison Krauss)
  • Programme Two: Helvic Head / Kiss the Maid (Michael McGoldrick), Annabel Lee (Sarah Jarosz), Some Sweet Day (Dirk Powell), Dreamcatcher / Off the Hook (Sharon Shannon), Time Machine (Declan O'Rourke), Lake Charles Waltz (Phil Cunningham), Jesus Can You Help Me Now (Amos Lee)
  • Programme Three: Big Country (Béla Fleck), Western Highway (Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh), Clear Blue Eyes (Amos Lee), A New Day Medley (Jerry Douglas), Waterbound (Dirk Powell), Run Away (Sarah Jarosz), Lios na Banriona / The Cross Reel (Nollaig Casey)
  • Programme Four: Flying Circus / Windchime Dance (Sharon Shannon), A Lewis Summer (Iain Morrison), Ring Them Bells (Sarah Jarosz), Lonesome Moonlight Waltz (Alison Krauss), The Ballad of Stringbean and Estelle (Sam Bush), Galileo (Declan O'Rourke), Dimming of the Day (Alison Krauss)
  • Programme Five: The Hut on Staffin Island / Shake a Leg / Wing Commander Donald MacKenzie's Reel (Phil Cunningham), Dragonflies (Eddi Reader), Cúnla (Dónal Lunny), Leaving Limerick (Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh), Same Ol' River (Sam Bush), Gur Milis Morag (Kathleen MacInnes), Don't Ever Let Nobody Drag Your Spirit Down (Eric Bibb)
  • Programme Six: The Breton Set (John McCusker), Broken Off Car Door (Iain Morrison)), Windows are Rolled Down (Amos Lee), T'aimse Im' Chodhladh (Aly Bain), Little Girl of Mine in Tennessee (Sam Bush), I Believe in You (Alison Krauss), Route Irish (Jerry Douglas)
  • Bonus Tracks (on discs only): Fire in my Hands (Iain Morrison), Pé in Eirinn (Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh), Reul Alainn A' Chuain (Kathleen MacInnes), When at Last (Russ Barenberg), A Stor Mo Chroi (Nollaig Casey)

Transatlantic Sessions 6

[edit]
TS6 artists on set (left to right: Jerry Douglas, James Mackintosh, Teddy Thompson, Aoife O'Donovan, Julie Fowlis, Karen Matheson, Mary Chapin Carpenter; Aly Bain)

(2013 / directed by Jerry Douglas and Aly Bain). Recorded at Loch Lomond, Scotland.[14]

TS6 Programmes

[edit]

For each track, the main performer's name is shown in brackets (they are not necessarily the composer).

  • Programme One: Shetland Set (Aly Bain), Don't Know What I Was Thinking (Teddy Thompson), Aragon Mill (Karen Matheson), Jock Stewart (Ewan McLennan), Shotgun Down The Avalanche (Cara Dillon / Sam Lakeman), I wish I Was in Belfast Town (Andy Irvine), Bright Sunny South (Aoife O'Donovan)
  • Programme Two: My Girl's Waiting For Me (Tim O'Brien), I Have A Need For Solitude (Mary Chapin Carpenter), Halloween Rehearsal (Russ Barenberg), Smeorach Chlann Domhnaill (Julie Fowlis), Cragie Hill (Cara Dillon), Wee Michael's March / D Jig / Boys of the Puddle (John McCusker)
  • Programme Three: Gone To Fortingal / Wired to the Moon (Jerry Douglas / Michael McGoldrick), Transcendental Reunion (Mary Chapin Carpenter), Loch Katrine's Lady (Phil Cunningham), Oh Mama (Aoife O'Donovan), She Thinks I Still Care (Teddy Thompson), Father Dermot (Aly Bain / Mike McGoldrick), Jute Mill (Ewan McLennan)
  • Programme Four: Jubilee (Mary Chapin Carpenter), Never Tire of the Road (Andy Irvine), Che Mi Bhuam (Karen Matheson), Delilah (Teddy Thompson), Isle of Malachy (Maura O'Connell), Hug Air A' Bhonaid Mhoir (Julie Fowlis), Letter in the Mail (Tim O'Brien)
  • Programme Five: Liberty's Sweet Home (John Doyle), Bright Morning Star (Cara Dillon / Sam Lakeman), No Direction Home / Bright Start Over Sark (Michael McGoldrick), Whistling The Esperanza (Ewan McLennan), He Gradh Ho Gradh (Julie Fowlis), Sad The Parting / Miss Ann McKechnie / Lord McConnell of Loughearn / Rakish Paddy (Allan McDonald)
  • Programme Six: Like I Used To (Tim O'Brien), The Diamond Ring (Karen Matheson), Kimberley's Waltz (Phil Cunningham), My Heart's Tonight in Ireland / West Clare Reel (Andy Irvine / Dónal Lunny), It Don't Bring You (Maura O'Connell), Hallowell (Aoife O'Donovan), On a Monday (Jerry Douglas)

References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Transatlantic Sessions

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Transatlantic Sessions is a long-running musical that unites folk, roots, and traditional performers from , , and the to explore shared Celtic and Americana musical heritage through intimate performances of original songs and classic tunes. Originating as a television series produced by Glasgow-based Pelicula Films Ltd. and broadcast on starting in 1995, the has evolved into an annual highlight of the festival in and a series of international live tours. Six television series were produced between 1995 and 2013, with subsequent editions airing as specials or compilations on and . The format emphasizes spontaneous "back-porch" style sessions, often filmed in scenic Scottish locations like the Highlands, fostering cross-cultural duets and ensemble pieces. At the core of Transatlantic Sessions is a house band co-led by Shetland fiddler and American dobro player , supported by musicians such as guitarist John Doyle, piper Michael McGoldrick, and pianist Donald Shaw, who provide a versatile backbone for rotating guest artists. Notable performers across the series and tours have included Grammy winners like , Alison Krauss, and , alongside American, Irish, and Scottish talents such as , , and , resulting in acclaimed recordings, DVDs, and live shows that have drawn sell-out crowds worldwide. The project continues to tour, with 2025 and 2026 editions featuring fresh lineups celebrating 30 years since its debut.

Overview

Concept and Format

Transatlantic Sessions is a series of musical productions created by Pelicula Films Ltd, primarily for broadcast on , , and . The core format centers on collaborative live performances featuring folk, bluegrass, and country musicians from , , , and , captured in intimate Scottish settings without a live audience to emphasize the musicians' direct interactions. These sessions highlight spontaneous jamming sessions that foster cross-cultural fusions between Celtic and Americana roots music traditions. The series evolved from an initial 1995 pilot into multi-episode seasons, with each typically comprising 6-7 half-hour programmes, supported by an all-star house band led by and .

Core Elements and Themes

The Transatlantic Sessions is fundamentally defined by its central theme of transatlantic musical exchange, which celebrates the deep interconnections between musical traditions originating from Scotland, Ireland, and the United States. This exchange underscores the shared historical and cultural pathways that link Celtic folk music with Americana, drawing on common roots in storytelling ballads, dance tunes, and instrumental forms that have evolved across the Atlantic. By facilitating collaborations between musicians from these regions, the series highlights how these traditions, often rooted in rural and community-based practices, continue to resonate in contemporary settings. A key structural element is the , which serves as the musical backbone for all performances, providing a cohesive foundation that supports guest artists in exploring new interpretations of traditional material. This ensemble ensures a unified while allowing for spontaneous interplay, emphasizing the collaborative spirit inherent in . The focus on acoustic —such as , , , and guitar—further reinforces the series' commitment to unamplified, organic expressions of folk heritage, evoking the intimacy of informal gatherings rather than polished stage productions. Thematically, the sessions delve into motifs of migration, capturing the journeys of people and sounds across oceans through songs that narrate displacement, , and cultural . Storytelling through song is a recurring pillar, with performances often weaving personal and collective narratives that preserve oral histories within folk and Celtic traditions. Additionally, the series promotes innovation within these genres by encouraging fresh arrangements and fusions, such as blending Celtic rhythms with Americana harmonies, to demonstrate the living evolution of these musical forms. Central to the series' identity is its unique no-audience recording style, where musicians rehearse and perform in an intimate, enclosed environment with only the participants and present, fostering raw and unpolished interactions that prioritize musical chemistry over performative . This approach, often likened to an "ultimate back-porch session," cultivates a sense of immediacy and authenticity, allowing the natural flow of ideas and improvisations to emerge without external distractions.

Production

Key Personnel

The Transatlantic Sessions were co-directed musically by Scottish fiddler and, from the second series onward, American dobro player , who served as the primary curators of the and guides for artist collaborations across the series. For the 1995 debut, Bain co-directed with American fiddler . Bain, renowned for his impassioned traditional playing rooted in folk music, and Douglas, a Grammy-winning instrumentalist from Nashville, shaped the sessions' transatlantic ethos by selecting musicians with shared Celtic and roots influences, fostering spontaneous improvisations that blended Scottish, Irish, and American styles. Their roles extended to inviting high-profile guests, ensuring the provided a versatile foundation for these cross-cultural jams, which became a hallmark of the production from the 1995 debut, with the Bain-Douglas partnership defining it from 1998 onward. The production team, led by director Mike Alexander and producer Douglas Eadie of Pelicula Films Ltd, handled the logistical and creative oversight that brought the musical vision to life. Alexander, a veteran filmmaker and founder of Pelicula in 1972, developed the series' intimate format—often filmed in Scottish venues like historic castles and rural lodges—and collaborated closely with Bain and Douglas to align technical execution with artistic spontaneity. Eadie, who produced all six seasons from 1995 to 2013, focused on securing funding and international broadcasts, drawing on his prior work with Bain in folk documentaries to emphasize authentic, unscripted performances. Together, they ensured the sessions captured the improvisational energy, resulting in enduring broadcasts on and spin-off recordings. The house band formed the core ensemble, varying slightly by series but anchored by key members who supported guest interactions and drove the improvisational flow. Consistent contributors included multi-instrumentalist Michael McGoldrick on and , providing Celtic wind elements; guitarist John Doyle, who added rhythmic acoustic drive; Russ Barenberg on mandolin and guitar for intricate ; and Donald Shaw on , and keyboards to harmonize diverse styles. These musicians, handpicked by the musical directors, adapted across seasons—such as incorporating percussionist James Mackintosh or bassist in later series—to maintain a tight, responsive unit that enabled seamless collaborations, underscoring the production's emphasis on musical chemistry over rigid arrangements.

Filming and Broadcast Details

The Transatlantic Sessions were primarily funded and produced by , in co-production with and Ireland's , through Glasgow-based Pelicula Films Ltd. Later series expanded to international distribution, including broadcasts on stations in the United States. Filming emphasized an intimate, collaborative atmosphere, with musicians performing live in historic Scottish venues such as mansions and lodges, often without a live to foster a relaxed "backporch" feel akin to informal jam sessions. These single-take recordings captured spontaneous interactions among artists from , , and , guided by musical directors to highlight unscripted musical chemistry. In post-production, the raw footage underwent minimal editing to retain the authentic live energy, resulting in half-hour episodes that showcased complete performances with little alteration. Audio and video releases, including CDs and DVDs compiling selections from the sessions, were handled by Edinburgh-based Whirlie Records. The original 1995 series aired initially on BBC Two Scotland, marking its debut as a regional production before gaining wider visibility. Subsequent series shifted to prime-time slots on BBC Four, broadening access across the UK while maintaining the core format of six episodes per season.

Series History

Original Series (1995)

The Original Series was recorded in April and May 1995 at Montgreenan Mansion House Hotel in , , , and consisted of seven half-hour programmes produced by Pelicula Films for . The series aired on BBC2 Scotland starting on 5 April 1996, with musical directors and hosting and leading a core that included on , Russ Barenberg on guitar, and on bass. The programmes showcased intimate, collaborative performances in a relaxed, audience-free setting, blending folk, , and traditional music from both sides of the Atlantic. Episode 1 opened with the staple "Far From Home/Big John McNeil" by and , followed by tracks like "Wheels of Love" featuring debut guest alongside and . Episode 2 highlighted John Martyn's "May You Never" as a with , while later episodes included 's "Let the Mystery Be" and "Our Town," alongside contributions from artists such as , , and the McGarrigle sisters on songs like "Hard Times" and "Going Back to Harlan." As the inaugural outing, the series served as a proof-of-concept for the Transatlantic Sessions format, demonstrating the potential of spontaneous cross-cultural collaborations among top acoustic musicians and setting a template for future iterations with its raw, unpolished energy and emphasis on musical interplay.

Series 2 (1998)

The second series of Transatlantic Sessions, aired in 1998, consolidated the collaborative format established in the 1995 original by featuring seven programmes recorded over three days in August at Raemoir House Hotel in , , . This iteration expanded the guest roster to include prominent transatlantic artists such as , , , , , , , , , , , and Michael Doucet, alongside the house band of , , Russ Barenberg, Michael Doucet, Breda Smyth, , and Tommy Hayes. The programmes emphasized collaborative performances, with an increased focus on songwriting integrations where artists co-interpreted originals and traditions, such as , , and Radney Foster's rendition of "Hummingbird" and and 's duet on the traditional "Ae Fond Kiss." Notable highlights included performing "" and "," delivering "Someone to Lay Down Beside Me" and "Home," contributing "," "Excuse Me Mister," and "Angeline" in episodes 6 and 7, and Mary Black's "Stranger's Eyes" and "Another Day." Other key tracks featured on "Boots of Spanish Leather" and "Always Will," with "The Last Thing on My Mind" and "Arthur McBride & The Sargeant," singing "Trouble in the Fields" and "Living in These Troubled Times," Radney Foster's "Nobody Wins" and "Just Call Me Lonesome," and Sharon Shannon's instrumental sets like "The Glass of Beer" and "." House band instrumentals, such as Jerry Douglas's "Passing the Bar," "Tribute to /Takarazuka," and "," provided transitions between guest spots. Production for the series incorporated refined audio recording techniques from the original film sessions, enabling high-fidelity remastering for subsequent CD releases in three volumes during 2013, which included select performances and six additional tracks not aired in the broadcasts. These releases preserved the intimate, back-porch style collaborations, with the DVDs compiling the full series content for later distribution.

Series 3 (2007)

After a nine-year hiatus following Series 2 in 1998, Transatlantic Sessions returned with its third series in 2007, marking a revival that infused fresh energy into the format while building on the established tradition of transatlantic musical collaborations. Produced by Glasgow-based Pelicula Films for , the series consisted of six 30-minute programmes, recorded at the intimate setting of Strathgarry House near Killicrankie in the Highlands, . Aired on BBC Two Scotland and BBC Four from September 14 to October 26, 2007, as part of the Highland 2007 cultural celebrations and 's Music 07 initiative, it highlighted the fusion of Celtic, folk, and Americana traditions from , , and Nashville. The production emphasized unamplified, audience-free performances in a relaxed "backporch" atmosphere, fostering spontaneous interactions among musicians. The house band, co-directed by on and on , featured a core ensemble including Russ Barenberg on guitar, Phil Cunningham on accordion, on and , Donald Shaw on piano and accordion, and Michael McGoldrick on and , with additional support from bassists like Todd Parks and Daniel Kimbro. This lineup showcased instrumental prowess, with a particular emphasis on intricate and interplay that underscored the series' shift toward broader Celtic-Americana fusion, blending traditional Scottish and Irish reels with bluegrass and elements. Guest artists were drawn from across the Atlantic, including prominent figures like , , , , , Tim O'Brien, Darrell Scott, and , who contributed to the series' reputation for high-caliber, cross-cultural performances. Accompanying releases included two CD volumes capturing key tracks, such as "Saint Teresa" by and "The Lakes of Pontchartrain" by , extending the series' reach beyond television. The six episodes each spotlighted a rotating selection of guests, allowing for diverse pairings and instrumental showcases that highlighted the refreshed dynamics post-hiatus. Episode 1, aired September 14, 2007, opened with 's emotive rendition of "," alongside 's Gaelic puirt-à-beul mouth music and 's debut television performance of "Saint Teresa," joined by guests like Russ Barenberg, , and . Episode 2, aired September 21, 2007, featured and Tim O'Brien on "Back to Earth," with additional contributions from , , Jenna Reid, and , emphasizing dobro-driven s like Jerry Douglas's "Li'l Ro Ro / ." Episode 3, aired September 28, 2007, included Bruce Molsky's old-time on "Shove the Pig's Foot a Little Further into the Fire," paired with Tim O'Brien, , , and . Episode 4, aired October 5, 2007, showcased Iris DeMent's vocals on traditional tunes, alongside Tim O'Brien, , , Phil Cunningham, and Fred Morrison, focusing on harmonious vocal blends. Episode 5, aired October 19, 2007, highlighted 's "Crucan Na BPáiste" with Catriona MacKay on clàrsach, featuring , , Bruce Molsky, and . The finale, Episode 6, aired October 26, 2007, closed with , Tim O'Brien, , , and Michael McGoldrick, including 's "It's a Great Day to Be Alive" as a celebratory ensemble piece. Bonus content, including behind-the-scenes footage and additional tracks like Phil Cunningham's s, was released alongside the series, further illustrating the international co-production's growth in scope.

Series 4 (2009)

The fourth series of Transatlantic Sessions maintained the collaborative spirit of the previous revival while expanding its artistic scope, filmed entirely at the historic Glenlyon House, a hunting lodge in , , near Aberfeldy. Produced in 2009 by Pelicula Films for , , and , the series comprised six 30-minute programmes broadcast weekly from September 13 to October 18, 2009, along with bonus material released on DVD, capturing intimate live performances in the lodge's atmospheric setting. This installment emphasized cross-cultural exchanges, with the house band—featuring Scottish fiddler , American dobro player , Irish flautist and piper Michael McGoldrick, uilleann piper Ronan Browne, and others—providing a seamless backdrop for transatlantic collaborations. A key distinction of the series was its deeper integration of Irish musical traditions, evident in the house band's Celtic instrumentation and guest appearances by Irish artists such as singer , ' , and fiddler Dezi Donnelly, which infused sessions with airs, jigs, and sean-nós influences alongside American and bluegrass. Guest diversity was heightened by blending established icons like American singer-songwriter and artist Rosanne with emerging talents, including Scottish Gaelic singer and folk vocalist Emily Smith, fostering fresh interpretations of traditional and contemporary songs. The production benefited from refined technical advancements, including clearer audio capture suited to the lodge's acoustics, broadening its appeal to international audiences via DVD releases. The programmes unfolded as follows, each highlighting unique collaborations. Episode 1, aired September 13, 2009, opened with James Taylor delivering heartfelt folk renditions, Julie Fowlis showcasing Gaelic melodies, and bluegrass singer Dan Tyminski performing alongside instrumentals from Aly Bain, Jerry Douglas, and Allan MacDonald on bagpipes. Episode 2, on September 20, featured Canadian singer Martha Wainwright in emotive duets, Irish fiddler Máiread Ní Mhaonaigh trading reels, Karen Matheson on soaring vocals, James Taylor returning for acoustic sets, and producer Donal Lunny on bouzouki. Episode 3, broadcast September 27, spotlighted Rosanne Cash's country-inflected covers, emerging Scottish singer Emily Smith's traditional ballads, and the Irish duo of Michael McGoldrick on pipes and Dezi Donnelly on fiddle in lively instrumentals. Episode 4, aired October 4, 2009, included Alison Moorer's soulful Americana, Karan Casey's Irish folk songs, Dan Tyminski's high-lonesome harmonies, Liam 's percussive rhythms, Stuart Duncan's virtuoso work, and contributions from Ronan Browne and Allan MacDonald. Episode 5, on October 11, presented old-time fiddler Bruce Molsky with accordionist , a house band showcase by , , Russ Barenberg, and Todd Parks, duetting with , and alongside James Grant. The finale, Episode 6 on October 18, brought back and for closing anthems, for narrative ballads, in Gaelic fusion, and Liam , culminating in a celebratory ensemble piece that underscored the series' theme of musical unity. Bonus DVD content extended these sessions with additional tracks, such as instrumental reels and unreleased collaborations, preserving the lodge's intimate vibe.

Series 5 (2011)

The fifth series of Transatlantic Sessions was recorded in 2011 at an old hunting lodge in Glen Lyon near Aberfeldy in the Highlands of , continuing the intimate, audience-free format that allowed for collaborative performances among Celtic, , and emerging bluegrass and artists. This series consisted of six 30-minute programmes, broadcast on and , featuring co-directors and leading a house band that included Russ Barenberg on guitar, John Doyle on guitar and , Nollaig Casey on , on , Michael McGoldrick on and , Donald Shaw on keyboards and , and on . The production emphasized vocal harmonies through group renditions of traditional and contemporary songs, showcasing the interplay between established and rising talents from , , , and . Building on the instrumental focus of the previous series, Series 5 introduced key innovations such as a greater emphasis on original compositions and the inclusion of younger artists alongside veterans, broadening the series' appeal during its mid-run phase. Notably, it marked the debut of blues musician , the first of his genre in the series, alongside bluegrass luminaries like and , which infused fresh improvisational energy into the sessions. Younger performers, including and , brought contemporary songwriting perspectives, performing originals like Jarosz's "Annabelle Lee" and collaborating on harmonious arrangements that highlighted vocal layering. These elements solidified the series' reputation for fostering cross-cultural musical dialogue without a live audience, capturing spontaneous interactions in a rustic Highland setting. The episodes featured a rotating lineup of guests, with each programme centering on 5-7 performances drawn from folk traditions and new material:
  • Episode 1: Opened with reels by and Phil Cunningham, followed by Eric Bibb's blues-inflected "Goin' Down the Road Feelin' Bad," Kathleen MacInnes's Gaelic "Oran Na Cloiche," 's showcase "," Eddi Reader's "Leezie Lindsay," Dirk Powell's "Boats Up the River," and Alison Krauss's a cappella-tinged "Lay My Burden Down," emphasizing harmonious closes.
  • Episode 2: Highlighted Michael McGoldrick on , Sarah Jarosz's original "Ring Them Bells," 's fiddle work in a house band medley, and joining for improvisational sets, with vocal support from Donal Lunny and Phil Cunningham.
  • Episode 3: Featured and in dual and mandolin duets, Phil Cunningham's accordion-driven tunes, Michael McGoldrick's flute solos, and Alison Krauss leading vocal harmonies on "The Water Is Wide," a nod to traditional Celtic ballads.
  • Episode 4: Included Sharon Shannon's with Jim Murray on , Iain Morrison's Gaelic songs, Sarah Jarosz's "My Muse," a collaborative "" by Alison Krauss and , and Declan O'Rourke's original "."
  • Episode 5: Showcased Eric Bibb's "Don't Ever Let Nobody Drag Your Spirit Down" with house band backing, Phil Cunningham and Donal Lunny in instrumental sets, Michael McGoldrick's pipes, and Danny Thompson's anchoring vocal ensembles.
  • Episode 6: Closed the series with and Michael McGoldrick on fiddles and pipes, Alison Krauss, , and in a trio harmony on "Maturity," plus group performances blending originals and standards.
Accompanying the broadcast, a two-volume CD set was released in 2011 by Proper Records, capturing nearly 50 tracks from the sessions, including exclusive recordings like Eric Bibb's "Goin' Down the Road Feelin' Bad" and Alison Krauss's "Lay My Burden Down," which were not aired in full. Volume One focused on early episodes' highlights, while Volume Two covered later ones, providing listeners with extended versions emphasizing the vocal and compositional depth of the collaborations.

Series 6 (2013)

The sixth series of Transatlantic Sessions, aired in 2013, marked the culmination of the show's original television format, consisting of six half-hour episodes that blended Americana and Celtic musical traditions through collaborative performances. Filmed at the Lodge on the Loch Hotel overlooking in , the production emphasized the scenic lochside setting to enhance the intimate, backporch-style sessions without a live . The series featured the consistent house band led by co-producers on and on , with members including Mike McGoldrick on pipes and flutes, Russ Barenberg on guitar, and Phil Cunningham on , providing a transatlantic backbone for the guest artists. Episode 1 opened with returning veterans like and joining newcomers such as and , performing tracks including Andy Irvine's "Never Tire of the Road" and a collaborative rendition of that highlighted the cross-cultural interplay. Subsequent episodes built on this, with Episode 2 showcasing alongside and in songs like "Transcendental Reunion," underscoring the series' theme of veteran artists reuniting with fresh talents. Later installments, such as Episode 3, featured O'Donovan again with Carpenter for "Hè Grádh Hò Grádh" and instrumental sets by the house band, while the finale in Episode 6 brought back Matheson, O'Connell, and Tim O'Brien for closing harmonies that encapsulated the show's evolving legacy. As a capstone to the filmed series, the 2013 installment reinforced the transatlantic ethos by drawing on established figures like Irvine and O'Brien alongside emerging voices, all set against the picturesque backdrop that producers noted as a fitting finale for the studio-bound era. Produced by Pelicula Films for , the episodes aired weekly from September 15 to October 20, 2013, and were later compiled into DVD releases and companion albums, such as Transatlantic Sessions - Series 6, Vol. One.

Extensions and Legacy

Live Performances

Following the conclusion of the sixth television series in 2013, Transatlantic Sessions transitioned from its original studio-based format—where musicians collaborated in intimate, recorded sessions—to live productions that captured the same spirit of transatlantic musical exchange for theater audiences. This evolution allowed the project to extend its reach beyond broadcasting, emphasizing real-time performances that highlighted the chemistry between Celtic and Americana artists. The live iterations retained the core while inviting guest vocalists to join for spontaneous arrangements, adapting the TV model's collaborative ethos to a setting. The inception of these annual live tours came shortly after the final TV series, with stage versions debuting at festivals such as in beginning in 2014. These events quickly became a highlight of the festival, featuring the house band led by figures like and , alongside rotating guests from , , and the . By 2014, the format had expanded into a full UK tour following the opener, solidifying its presence as a touring entity rather than a one-off festival appearance. Notable events include the 2023 Celtic Connections performance at Royal Concert Hall, where the house band—including , , Phil Cunningham, and —was joined by guests such as Tatiana Hargreaves, Allison de Groot, , , , and . The show opened with energetic instrumentals like "Waiting for the Federals" and featured vocal highlights that blended somber ballads with lively sets, drawing a full house. Performances have also extended to other festivals, such as the Folk in 2024, where the ensemble recreated the session's improvisational style on the main stage with artists including and Tim O'Brien. The 2025 tour marked the project's 30th anniversary, with sell-out shows at venues including Royal Concert Hall, in , and Symphony Hall in Birmingham, featuring a fresh lineup of guests. Live adaptations prioritize audience engagement through multi-act sets that mimic the TV sessions' spontaneity, with guests rotating onstage for duets and instrumentals drawn from archival material rather than producing new recordings. This structure avoids scripted rigidity, allowing for on-the-fly harmonies and medleys that foster the project's signature cross-cultural dialogue. No formal audio or video captures are generated from these shows, preserving their ephemeral quality while integrating familiar tunes to connect with fans of the original series. By the 2020s, the tours had grown into established international circuits across the and , with annual stops at venues like the Royal Festival Hall in London, Symphony Hall in Birmingham, and Aviva Studios in , alongside festival appearances. This expansion reflected the enduring appeal of the format, attracting sell-out crowds and introducing newer generations to the blend of Celtic and American roots music through consistent touring.

Recordings and Releases

The commercial recordings of Transatlantic Sessions have been primarily issued by Edinburgh-based Whirlie Records, encompassing audio CDs and DVDs drawn from the studio performances across the six series, with selections curated from episode track lists and occasional exclusive material. For the Original Series (1995), Whirlie Records released a complete DVD compilation in November 2008, featuring all 56 tracks from the seven episodes totaling over three hours of footage, including performances by artists such as Emmylou Harris, Kathy Mattea, and Iris DeMent. The corresponding audio releases consist of three CD volumes issued in 2009, with Volume One containing 18 tracks like "Waiting for the Federals" by Aly Bain and "Both Sides the Tweed" by Barbara Dickson, capturing key collaborations from the sessions. Series 2 (1998) followed a similar format, with a single DVD released in 2011 compiling the seven episodes into four hours of content, highlighting acts including and . The audio CDs, released in 2013, include three volumes—such as Volume One with 16 tracks like "Shenandoah" by and "Down in the Valley" by —focusing on transatlantic fusions of folk and country styles. The releases for Series 3 (2007) include a 2013 DVD edition presenting the full eight episodes, with performances by artists like and Tim O'Brien. Audio CDs comprise two volumes from around 2007, reissued later by Whirlie, featuring bonus tracks not in the broadcast; Volume One offers 19 selections, including "Will the Circle Be Unbroken" by various guests and Celtic instrumentals led by and . Series 4 (2009) saw its DVD released in late 2009, compiling eight episodes with over four hours of material, emphasizing collaborations such as with James Grant. The CDs, starting with Volume One in 2009, include three volumes total, with tracks like "Fisher's " and "The Lakes of Pontchartrain" by Pauline Scanlon, incorporating bonus editions exclusive to the physical releases. For Series 5 (2011), the DVD appeared in 2012, covering eight episodes with guests including Alison Krauss and . Three CD volumes were issued from late 2011 to 2012, such as Volume One (December 2011) with 16 tracks like "Gone, Going Gone" by and "Undone in Sorrow" by , again featuring bonus content beyond the episodes. Series 6 (2013), the final broadcast series, has a two-disc DVD set released in November 2013, encompassing eight episodes and artists like and . The three accompanying CD volumes followed in 2014, with Volume Two including 13 tracks such as "A New Day Medley" and "Shady Grove" by various ensembles, maintaining the tradition of episode-derived selections plus exclusives. Across the discography, Whirlie Records has produced over 100 songs in total from these releases (1995–2013), blending traditional folk, Celtic, and Americana repertoires with some original compositions. Compilation albums include Transatlantic Sessions: The Best of Folk Volume 1 (also known as the edition), a 2014 selection of 12 standout tracks from multiple series, featuring highlights like "" by and "" by with . In the digital era, many of these recordings have been made available for streaming and download since the mid-2010s, with full albums like Series 1: Volume One and Series 5: Volume Two accessible on platforms such as and via Whirlie Records. Additionally, post-2013 uploads of select tracks and episodes, including remastered audio excerpts, appear on through official channels and BBC-affiliated content, enhancing accessibility beyond .

Reception and Influence

The Transatlantic Sessions have garnered widespread critical acclaim for their innovative fusion of Celtic and American roots music, often praised for creating an intimate, collaborative atmosphere that transcends geographical boundaries. A 2015 review in The Guardian described the series as "the biggest back porch in the world," highlighting its role as a vibrant Celtic-North American folk summit that evokes the spirit of communal jamming sessions. Similarly, a 2023 live review in Songlines magazine lauded the performances at Celtic Connections for their "highest calibre" musicianship and "wonderful energy," underscoring the enduring appeal of the house band's arrangements and guest collaborations. Earlier coverage, such as a 2013 Guardian article, emphasized the series' longevity and its ability to refresh traditional sounds through cross-cultural exchanges, noting how American artists find the Celtic influences both "exotic yet very familiar." The series has received notable recognition in the entertainment industry, including nominations for BAFTA Scotland Awards. In 1997, Transatlantic Sessions was nominated in the Entertainment category but did not win, acknowledging its production quality and cultural significance. Its influence extends to the broader folk revival and Americana scenes, where it has been credited with revitalizing interest in transatlantic musical traditions; for instance, the series' emphasis on shared roots has been echoed in Americana Music Association events and awards ceremonies that celebrate similar hybrid styles. Culturally, the Transatlantic Sessions have played a pivotal role in bridging Celtic traditions from and with American folk, bluegrass, and genres, fostering a legacy of international collaboration. By pairing established figures like and with emerging talents, the series has inspired analogous projects, such as crossovers at No Depression festivals that highlight Americana-roots intersections. This bridging has contributed to a renewed appreciation for shared musical heritages, as noted in reviews that describe the sessions as a "" promoting mutual influence between scenes. The global reach of the Transatlantic Sessions has expanded through reruns on and international broadcasts, cultivating a dedicated fanbase and providing crucial exposure for lesser-known artists. Performances featuring guests like and Alison Krauss have boosted careers by introducing them to new audiences across and , with the series' touring iterations further amplifying its impact on the international folk circuit. This sustained visibility has helped lesser-known talents, such as those from Cajun and Appalachian traditions, gain broader recognition and opportunities in collaborative settings.

Recent Developments

Reruns and Highlights

In recent years, has aired reruns of archived Transatlantic Sessions material, including highlights from Series 3 during the 2024-2025 schedule, presented by Scottish folk singer . These episodes feature selected performances from the original 2007 series, recontextualized to showcase transatlantic musical collaborations. Complementing these efforts, Irish broadcaster has broadcast specials drawing from the same archival footage, co-presented by and Irish traditional musician . These programs emphasize performances bridging Scottish, Irish, and American roots music traditions. From 2023 to 2025, highlight programmes under the banner Dlùth An Dàimh have offered two-decade retrospectives, compiling edited "best-of" segments from all six original Transatlantic Sessions series. Aired on both and , these specials include collaborative tracks such as those featuring artists like and Tim O'Brien, highlighting the show's enduring appeal in folk and roots genres. Enhanced accessibility has supported these reruns, with full episodes from Series 1 through 6 available via streaming on BBC iPlayer and YouTube playlists uploaded by 2024. BBC Alba's dedicated YouTube channel further hosts highlight clips from the retrospectives, allowing global audiences to revisit the performances.

Future Plans

In 2025, producers announced the return of Transatlantic Sessions for a 2026 tour, emphasizing ongoing collaborations among musicians from , , and the to celebrate their interconnected folk and roots traditions. The events will feature a core house band led by fiddler and Dobro player , joined by instrumentalists including John Doyle on guitar, Michael McGoldrick on pipes and whistles, and Daniel Kimbro on bass, creating an intimate "back-porch" atmosphere through a mix of original songs and timeless tunes. Guest vocalists such as , , , , and will participate, highlighting spontaneous musical exchanges that build on the format's legacy of cross-cultural performances. The 2026 tour dates include stops at major venues like Royal Concert Hall on January 30, Aviva Studios in on February 3, and in , with tickets going on sale in late August 2025. This live-focused return follows the 2025 tour, which marked the 30th anniversary of the original 1995 television series by drawing large audiences to similar hybrid-style shows during the festival. While no new television production has been confirmed, the tour's structure—combining rehearsed ensembles with improvisational elements—mirrors the acclaimed studio sessions that defined earlier series. As of November 2025, producers have indicated that the 2026 events will prioritize the evolving folk scene, potentially incorporating contemporary artists to sustain the project's influence amid renewed interest in transatlantic roots music.

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  83. https://www.johnmartyn.info/release/transatlantic-sessions-2-volume-1
  84. https://www.bafta.org/awards/scotland/entertainment-scotland/
  85. https://nodepression.org/a-truly-special-relationship-the-transatlantic-sessions-royal-festival-hall-london/
  86. https://gretchenpeters.com/2019/02/celtic-connections-transatlantic-sessions-review-foot-stomping-all-stars-the-guardian/
  87. https://www.americanbluesscene.com/2024/02/transatlantic-sessions-unite-america-uk-and-ireland/
  88. https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m00116jn/episodes/guide
  89. https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/m00116jn/transatlantic-sessions
  90. https://www.tg4.ie/en/player/categories/irish-music-series/?series=Transatlantic%2520Sessions&genre=Ceol
  91. https://www.tvguide.co.uk/schedule/5d5568c2-3fdd-58ce-b399-af42104aaab6/transatlantic-sessions-dl-th-an-d-imh
  92. https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m00116jn
  93. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLrLryWJ8TI
  94. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLomnEwtqhZDf1oGbxUqiR-vWGpUGibmZK
  95. https://www.transatlanticsessions.com/latest-news/
  96. https://www.transatlanticsessions.com/transatlantic-sessions-tour-2026/
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