Joanne Rankin-MacIntyre (Eòsag Nic Fhraing)
Enchanting Gaelic Melodies from the Heart of Mabou Mines.
Joanne MacIntyre hails from Mabou Coal Mines where she was immersed in a culture rich in Gaelic music, dance, and language. Since her teenage years, she has graced stages across Cape Breton, infusing the island's unique style and "swing" into the hearts of appreciative audiences. At Baile nan Gàidheal | Highland Village, Joanne is a regular performer, captivating listeners with her Gaelic singing, step dancing, and storytelling. Additionally, she imparts her knowledge and passion for Gaelic language and Gaelic Studies to the younger generation as a teacher at Dalbrae Academy in Mabou.
As a descendant of Lochaber, Joanne continues to expand her repertoire of songs from the Cape Breton and Inverness County Gaelic tradition. In recent years, her four sons James, Stephen, Niall, and Cameron have joined her on stage, carrying on the intergenerational transmission tradition of Cape Breton’s Gaelic culture. These young men have been immersed in Gaelic songs from a young age through programs like Féis Mhàbu and Brìgh, as well as learning at home.
In 2012, Joanne received the "Big Sampie" award and unveiled her debut album of Gaelic songs, "Craobh a’ Mhathain," during Celtic Colours 2013.
