Born and raised on the banks of Scotland’s River Clyde, CKUA host Andy Donnelly bases his Scottish roots in the beautiful town of Gourock. Upon relocation to Alberta in 1978, he brought to the Canadian prairies his unyielding love and knowledge of Celtic music enabling Albertans to have a chance to gain a truly authentic perspective of the Celtic genre.
Andy has been part of the CKUA family since 1996 as host and producer of The Celtic Show. However, this was not his first foray into broadcasting – he has also shared his gentle brogue and fiery passions for the Celtic scene at CSJR, Edmonton’s campus-based community radio station as well as another notable CKUA show, In The Tradition. It was this particular show he had the honor of involving himself alongside friend and cohost Tom Coxworth. (Most notably heard in another programming endeavor of CKUA’s, Folk Routes!)
As a veteran of the folk music scene in Alberta, Andy’s involvement in the music business is anything but limited. As a touring musician and host, he holds a rare insight and dual perspective towards what defines an amazing program for both artist and listener. With experience ranging from radio broadcasting, concert production, to writing and performing his own shows, he can bring a touch of Celtic roots to any project he delves into. Andy was a founding member of the Full Moon Folk Club, and is deeply devoted to the South Side Folk Club of Edmonton, in which he continually provides exposure for overseas acts to be heard in Edmonton!
The Celtic Show
The Celtic Show is more than a radio program; for Andy Donnelly “It’s a place and time where a community comes together, a community that supports and nurtures itself.” He states “It is open and inclusive and for me it has been such a wonderful journey through the world of people, music and the arts.”
The Celtic Show is one in which the listener’s attention is warmly welcomed. One can break free of every day stress and lose themselves in the lively & vibrant history of the Celtic genre as Donnelly brings his expertise to the auditory experience! Selections range from gentle traditional ballads to hard driving rock songs complimented by bagpipes! With such notable artists as the Tannehill Weavers, Dougie Maclean, Sinead O’Connor, the Waterboys and more, Andy has curated a show tuned in to simply breathe easy, be happy, and get your toes tappin’ with musical hits the whole family can enjoy! Don't forget to Tell Yer Mum!
