Maura Shawn Scanlin '17 Receives Brian O’Donovan Legacy Artist Grant at 2025 Boston Celtic Music Festival

The Boston Celtic Music Festival, running January 16–19, 2025, will honor the guitar-and-fiddle duo Rakish, featuring alumna Maura Shawn Scanlin ’17, with the inaugural Brian O’Donovan Legacy Artist Grant. The festival, presented by Passim, celebrates the vibrant Celtic traditions of Boston and beyond through music, dance, and community events at venues like Club Passim, Somerville Theatre, and The Burren.

Maura Shawn Scanlin, born in Boone, NC, and now based in Somerville, MA, brings an exceptional blend of classical and Celtic artistry to Rakish. A two-time U.S. National Scottish Fiddling Champion and winner of the Glenfiddich Fiddle Championship, Maura is known for her captivating performances across North America and the UK, from Carnegie Hall to Blair Castle. Rakish is known for their innovative fusion of Celtic, classical, and Americana styles. Guitarist Conor Hearn, steeped in the Irish music traditions of Washington, D.C., adds a literary and rhythmic depth to the duo’s sound. 

Congratulations on this wonderful honor!