Peterborough, ON – August 5, 2025 — Peterborough Musicfest is set to wrap up a week-long celebration of Irish heritage with a show-stopping performance by one of the country’s most celebrated vocal groups. The Celtic Tenors will take to the Fred Anderson Stage at Del Crary Park this Saturday, August 9, at 8:00 p.m., delivering an evening of music that spans folk, pop, classical, opera, and traditional Celtic favourites.
With more than one million albums sold globally and a career that has taken them from New York to Shanghai, The Celtic Tenors have built an enduring reputation for their soaring harmonies and infectious charm. Their 25-plus years in the industry have seen them perform for world leaders, win international acclaim, and continually evolve their sound. Their 2019 release An Irish Songbook showcased a shift from their classical origins toward a more contemporary style, drawing comparisons to the likes of Ed Sheeran and Van Morrison.
The current lineup—Matthew, Daryl, and newest member George—brings both tradition and fresh energy to the stage. Originating from their time in The Three Irish Tenors, the group rebranded in 1999 to become The Celtic Tenors, symbolically representing three of Ireland’s four provinces: Gilsenan (Leinster), Simpson (Ulster), and Nelson (Connacht). Their unity, both in voice and in vision, reflects “a hopeful message of peace and connection,” bridging cultural divides within Ireland.
Opening the evening at 6:30 p.m. as part of the Future Sound Series presented by Cogeco will be local singer-songwriter Jason Dunn. Known for heartfelt lyrics and expressive delivery, Dunn is expected to bring an intimate yet powerful presence to the lakeside stage.
Festivalgoers can get an early start with Happy Hour food deals from 5:00–6:00 p.m., featuring offerings from a variety of local vendors. The evening will also serve as the grand finale of Peterborough Musicfest’s Irish Week, a highlight of the city’s Bicentennial 2025 celebrations. The week’s programming has shone a spotlight on Celtic culture, coinciding with the Nine Ships 1825 commemorative events marking the 200th anniversary of the arrival of the Peter Robinson emigrants, whose legacy continues to shape the region.
Now in its 38th season, Peterborough Musicfest remains one of the few large-scale music festivals in Canada to offer free admission. Its funding model relies on a mix of corporate sponsorship—most from locally owned businesses—government support, fundraising, and private donations. Past headliners have included Dallas Green, Little River Band, Metric, Our Lady Peace, Serena Ryder, Gordon Lightfoot, 54-40, and Blue Rodeo.
Executive Director Tracey Randall, her team, and the board of directors remain committed to the festival’s mission: “to provide diverse, affordable live music to enrich cultural and economic prosperity in our community.” Organizers encourage individuals and businesses to consider sponsorship to help sustain and grow the festival’s programming.
For more information, visit www.ptbomusicfest.ca or follow @ptbomusicfest on social media. Details on Bicentennial 2025 and the Nine Ships commemorations can be found at www.nineships1825.com.