A CELTIC CELEBRATION: The Bookends with The SSO

Every year, the Stratford Symphony Orchestra embraces Celtic culture by inviting talented artists to collaborate with the orchestra in an evening of musical celebration. In June 2022, The Bookends capped off the SSO’s 17th Season sharing their positive musical energy in a sold-out show that lifted spirits when it was most needed, resulting in this memorable recording that brings together the Cceltic and Symphonic musical traditions.

“When the Stratford Symphony Orchestra first approached us about joining them for their annual Celtic celebration concert we were equal parts thrilled and terrified. Thankfully, with the help of gifted arranger Ben Bolt-Martin, our original compositions and arrangements were translated into the lush pieces you hear on this record along with solo performances by both the band and orchestra. It was an experience we will never forget, as the talented musicians of the SSO lifted our tunes and us to new heights that night much to the delight of the audience.”

– The Bookends

“The Bookends play from their hearts. Their warm personalities and musicality fill the room. Whether a rehearsal or a concert they elevate the gathering with their heartfelt and uplifting tunes. They have great arrangements and consistently keep the audience tapping their feet!"

– William Rowson, Principal Conductor & Musical Director, SSO

Special thanks to our children for putting up with us practicing so much and letting their parents have some fun!

Thanks to Ben Bolt-Martin for his incredible orchestral arrangements of our music, Bill Rowson and everyone in the SSO, and Craig Thompson. Thanks to our special guest Romano Di Nillo on bodhran.



The Bookend’s performed as special guests of the Stratford Symphony Orchestra for their annual Celtic Celebration concert. Featuring Ben Bolt Martin’s unique orchestral arrangements of The Bookends own tune sets as well as original compositions. Recorded LIVE on June 11th, 2022 at The Avondale, Stratford ON

Mixed, Edited & Produced by Pete Watson, TrewStudio (Stratford)

Recorded by Jeff Wolpert, Desert Fish Studios (Toronto)

Mastered by Rob Nation, EMAC Recording Studios (London)

Live Sound by John Hazen, assisted by Ethan McCarroll

Package design by Punch & Judy Inc.

Cover: The Dancing Stevedores (c.1900), Jack B. Yeats (Bridgeman Images)

The Bookends photo by Aidan Shipley. Concert photo by Ballinran Entertainment

SSO Administrative Director: Chris Sharpe

SSO Stage Manager: David Spence

Live Video for StageView TV by Ballinran Entertainment

Venue Lighting by Stephen Degenstein