Last year, the group's holiday album "Home for Christmas" debuted at No. 1 on Billboard's World Music chart - marking the eighth time the all-female juggernaut has done so. That feat broke a record and earned the ladies the distinction of being named World Music Artists of 2012 by the music industry trade group.
And that's despite shifting its lineup over the years. Vocalists have come and gone, but the group continues to be a popular attraction - particularly during the holidays.
So exactly what does it take to be a Celtic Woman?
"Well obviously you have to be a good singer," laughed Mairead Nesbitt, the group's violin player and sole original member.
An impressive set of pipes is a good start, but that trait alone won't be enough to get the gig the next time a slot opens for Celtic Woman.
"It's always a careful decision when choosing a new vocalist," Nesbitt explained by phone during a recent tour stop in Las Vegas. "We have a signature sound, so it's important to consider the blend of the voices as well. The singers have to enhance each other. Our fans have come to know and love that sound, so that can never go away."
As lead violinist, Nesbitt is integral to the group's winning formula of blending traditional Irish music with new age and adult contemporary pop music.
A former All-Ireland fiddle champion, Nesbitt has played with a list of luminaries from Van Morrison to Sinead O'Conner and was the original lead violinist in the Irish stage show "Lord of the Dance."
The 34-year-old musician joined Celtic Woman in 2004 for what she thought would be a one-time show. Originally, the group was created by the musical director of "Riverdance" for an Irish TV special. PBS began airing the show in America a year later, paving the way for a concert DVD that sold more than 1 million copies. The group then released its self-titled debut record, which topped the music charts for a record-setting 81 weeks.
"People have been so supportive, and that means we must be doing something right," Nesbitt said. "I think we've been able to touch people, and that is the most important thing an artist can do."
Celtic Woman, which performs Sunday at the Ferguson Center for the Arts in Newport News, is typically more of a Broadway production than traditional concert; but come holiday season, the group opts for a cozier affair.
"The shows we do in other parts of the year are massive productions," Nesbitt said. "The arena tours are fantastic, but our Christmas show is very different. The venues are smaller, so it allows for a more intimate connection with the audience. And, we get to sing and play Christmas music; what's not to like about that?"
Following on the heels of last year's sold-out holiday tour, Celtic Woman will perform songs from its "Home for Christmas" album, an offering of amiable yuletide pop tunes and traditional Christmas carols.
During Sunday's performance the group will be accompanied by the Hampton Roads-based Virginia Symphony Orchestra.
"Christmas is a very big deal for Irish families," Nesbitt said. "Playing these songs always brings back that childhood feeling."
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