We have instruments and we know how to use them!
The Lilies of the Midwest (formerly the Daring Fair Maidens) are a trio of Irish traditional musicians in the Madison, WI area. Combining the unique sounds of concertina, mandolin, and fiddle, LotM hopes to inspire audiences with their infectious energy and joy.
Members
Charlene Adzima
fiddle, voice, feet
As a former step dancer and lifelong musician, Charlene delights audiences with her driving fiddle-playing and terrible puns from the stage.
Kara Rogers
concertina, accordion
A student of original Solas accordionist John Williams, Kara Rogers is an exciting, up-and-coming squeezebox player in her own right. Winner of the 2019 Midwest Fleadh Cheoil on concertina, she has competed in Ireland twice.
Jeanna Schultz
mandolin, bouzouki
Multi-instrumentalist Jeanna Schultz began her mandolin career in college and she hasn't looked back. Her strong rhythmic presence rounds out this dynamic trio.
Rick Nelson
guitar
When available, Ohio-based guitarist Rick Nelson joins LotM as an honorary lily. His thoughtful approach to accompaniment derives from the playing of Micheal O Domhnaill and Daithi Sproule.