ROCHESTER — The Makem & Spain Brothers have honed their craft over nearly two decades of international performances and are now one of the true road-tested Irish vocal groups.

Shane, Connor and Rory Makem and Mick and Liam Spain have played before millions of people from Canada to Texas, to California, the Caribbean and Ireland, highlighting national PBS specials and popular Irish talk shows along the way. At 8 p.m. on Saturday, a local audience will have a chance to enjoy their performance at the Rochester Opera House.

Shane, Conor and Rory Makem were born in Drogheda, County Louth, about an hour north of Dublin. They continue the lineage of one of Irish music’s dynasties begun by their grandmother, Sarah Makem, who was sought after by song collectors for her store of traditional Irish songs. Their father is Tommy Makem, who is considered a modern-day Bard and icon who helped bring Irish music out of the corner and into the international spotlight.
Growing up, Mick and Liam Spain’s father sang and taught his sons the local Irish songs. Mickey realized his talent for singing and Liam mastered stringed instruments.

Rochester Opera House is located at 31 Wakefield St., Rochester. Tickets are $22 and $20. For tickets or more information call 335-1992 or visit rochesteroperahouse.com.