POTSDAM -- Community Performance Series (CPS) will open its 28th season with the Irish traditional music of Martin Hayes (fiddle) and Dennis Cahill (guitar).

The 34th McElheran Visiting Artist guests will perform on Saturday, Sept. 16, at 7:30 p.m. in Helen M. Hosmer Concert Hall. Workshops with each artist will take place on Sept. 16 at 1:30 p.m. at the Crane School of Music.

Martin Hayes and Dennis Cahill are two of the world's leading artists in traditional Irish music. Their adventurous, soulful interpretations of traditional tunes are recognized the world over for their exquisite musicality and irresistible rhythm. For over two decades, the Irish fiddler and American guitarist have performed at major concert halls and festivals around the globe. The duo has also helped found the Irish super group "The Gloaming."

The New York Times describes the duo as "simply exquisite. They strip old reels and jigs to their essence, leaving space between the notes for harmonics and whispered blue notes...A Celtic complement to Steve Reich's quartets or Miles Davis's 'Sketches of Spain'."

In addition to the performance, each artist will conduct a 90-minute workshop beginning at 1:30 p.m. on Sept. 16. Martin Hayes will conduct a class demonstrating bowing techniques, melody interpretations, variations and improvisations from Irish traditional music. Dennis Cahill will conduct a class demonstrating chord structure and the rhythmic aspect of tunes in the accompaniment of Irish music. Admission to the workshop is $25 per person and advanced reservations are required through the box office.

Tickets can be purchased by visiting the CPS Box Office, located in the lobby of SUNY Potsdam's new Performing Arts Center, by calling (315) 267-2277 or by visiting www.cpspotsdam.org. Single tickets can also be purchased in-person at Brick & Mortar Music in downtown Potsdam.

A 25 percent discount is available exclusively through the CPS Box Office when purchasing tickets to three or more Guest Artist Series events. This discount is not available on event night, please reserve in advance to save. Regular ticket prices differ depending on seat location. Student tickets cost as little as $8, and adult tickets range from $20 to $30. Discounts are also available for senior citizens and SUNY Potsdam faculty/staff.

For more information on the 2017-18 season and artists, visit www.cpspotsdam.org, or check out the CPS Facebook page, at www.facebook.com/cpspotsdam.