A Banner Year Lies Ahead For Phil Coulter

Phil Coulter, one of instrumental music's best-selling-artists, has enjoyed a career longevity that is rare in the music business. Few musicians share Coulter's illustrious resume which includes having his songs recorded by Elvis and Sinead O' Connor, co-writing hits for Cliff Richard and the Bay City Rollers, producing Van Morrison, and being the catalyst for Enya's own best-sellers. 2008 promises to be a banner year for the pianist, composer and producer as he will release a new CD, Timeless Tranquility (February 19) and a new DVD Tranquility Classics (February 5) both on Shanachie Entertainment. Coulter will also launch his first US Tour in seven years (see tour dates below) and star as the music director for the highly anticipated PBS special Celtic Man ( a follow up to the phenomenon Celtic Woman) to air in March 2008.

Phil Coulter's new CD and DVD will celebrate the 20th anniversary of his hugely popular Tranquility Series that landed a spot for Coulter on the Irish music charts throughout much of the '80s and '90s. This celebrated series gave birth to such celebrated recordings as Sea of Tranquility, Celtic Tranquility, Classic Tranquility and American Tranquility, and The Grammy Nominated 'Highland Cathedral' among other acclaimed titles. These dynamic, emotional and rich recordings demonstrate Coulter's unparalleled knack for crafting lush, swooning melodies and picturesque and astoundingly beautiful orchestrations that tell poignant and timeless stories. Crowned 'the reigning king of contemporary Celtic music,' Phil Coulter's ability to convey deep emotion and beauty through his music has allowed him to find a special place in the hearts of millions of fans around the globe.

Timeless Tranquility, Coulter's dynamic new recording delivers beautifully orchestrated versions of the most requested songs from his fans including such gems as "Caledonia," "Black Is The Color" and "The Band Played Waltzing Matilda." Joined by his full concert orchestra, Coulter takes listeners on a melodic journey recreating such memorable and deeply personal versions of "You Raise Me Up," a mega hit for Josh Groban, "Cal/Local Heron," two Mark Knopfler film themes and "Ellis Island," recently recorded by The Irish Tenors. Coulter's new DVD Tranquility Classics was filmed entirely on location in Ireland and is a celebration of the enduring quality of Phil Coulter's music and a testament to its staying power. Here for the first time is a collection of the most requested Tranquility classics, set in the scenic landscapes that inspired them. Highlights on the breathtaking DVD include "The Derry Air," "Carrickfergus," "The Spinning Wheel" and "The Isle of Innisfree." This unique DVD is an unforgettable experience, a treat for the ears, eyes and the soul.

"Even after 40 years I still get really excited about my projects and this year looks like being one of my busiest," shares Coulter. "I'm delighted with my new album Timeless Tranquility. I'm very proud of my work on Celtic Man and I'm counting the days till the start of my U.S. Tour. I've been away too long and I can't wait to get back 'on the road again!'