The Celtic Crossroads members have spread their passion for music far beyond Irish pubs-they are now on to the rest of the world.

Celtic Crossroads makes its way to Eastern at 7:30 p.m. today in Dvorak Concert Hall of Doudna Fine Arts Center for a late St. Patrick’s Day concert.

The group combines traditional Celtic music and dance with bluegrass, gypsy and jazz.

Dan Crews, Doudna arrangements supervisor, wanted Celtic Crossroads to perform at Eastern because of its superior musicianship and artistry.

“Celtic music is a genre that appeals to a lot of people, both those on campus and from the surrounding communities,” Crews said. “It is generational music, which means that it appeals to those young and old. The music is exciting with a contemporary feel.”

Critics have hailed Celtic Crossroads concerts as some of the most exhilarating and authentic shows to come from Ireland in decades, Crews said.

The name, Celtic Crossroads, comes from a time in Ireland when neighboring communities would meet at the crossroads of towns to socialize, according to their Web site.

Kevin Crosby, a producer of the group, formed EMK productions with his brother, Eamon, and Michael McClintock in 2005 and began auditioning musicians from around the world to play traditional Irish music.

“We got the best of the best from Ireland. It is a world-class show, with all the bells and whistles and stars of traditional Irish music,” Crosby said.

Crosby said he wants people to see music the same way that they do in his home of Galway, Ireland.

There, musicians will bring one instrument with them and pass it around throughout the night so that by the end, everyone has played more than 20 instruments and perfected them, Crosby said.

“There is a lot more energy to Celtic music that is not being shown in theater shows,” Crosby said.

The seven-member group tours for nine months every year and has consisted of the same people since the beginning, with the exception of two people.

Admission to the concert is $15; $12 for seniors and Eastern employees; $7 for students. Seating is reserved.

“We are extremely fortunate to present them. The show itself should be absolutely awesome,” Crews said.

Ashley Holstrom can be reached at 581-7942 or alholstrom@eiu.edu.