Why This Album Matters

For more than forty years, Leza Mesiah—known to audiences as The Moor of Dundee—has
dedicated her musical life to preserving, performing, and reimagining traditional Celtic and British
ballads. With Celtic Jazz From The Moor of Dundee, she invites listeners into a world where ancient
melodies meet contemporary American jazz, proving that great music can honor the past while
speaking powerfully to the present.

Honoring Tradition While Creating Something New

Rather than simply recording familiar standards, Celtic Jazz From The Moor of Dundee transforms
beloved melodies through contemporary American jazz while preserving their history, emotion, and
cultural roots.

A Legacy of Cultural Preservation

Leza Mesiah’s first two British Ballads/Celtic albums are cataloged by the Library of Congress,
recognizing their value as part of America’s documented cultural record for their historical
significance and authenticity. This album continues that mission by ensuring these timeless songs
remain relevant for future generations.

An Exceptional Musical Collaboration

Featuring acclaimed pianist and four-time Grammy nominee Dr. Mike Bogle, the project pairs
distinguished jazz artistry with authentic Celtic storytelling, creating a rare musical partnership that
bridges genres and generations.

A Distinctive Artistic Voice

As The Moor of Dundee, Leza Mesiah celebrates the connections between Celtic tradition,
American jazz, African heritage, and historical storytelling through a voice and artistic vision unlike
any other.

Why It Matters

In an era when many traditional musical forms are fading from public awareness, Celtic Jazz From
The Moor of Dundee demonstrates that preservation and innovation can exist together. The album
honors history while inviting new audiences to discover these songs through a fresh, sophisticated
musical lens. It is both a celebration of cultural heritage and a testament to the enduring power of
artistic collaboration.

My first song is Molly Malone. “Cockles and Mussel’s” may be a familiar tune of the 19th Century, but its legend goes back to at least the 17th Century. It’s first on my CD because it was the first song I sang at the first pub I visited during my first trip to Ireland. The 150 or so people in that pub outside of Shannon gave me such a thunderous applause it still brings me amazement at how they loved it and how surprised they were that I knew it and sang it to them so well.

The Rogue Of Dundee–Originally a cast song back in the early 90’s. An original song I wrote that has become my signature song and describes how I came to be livin’ in Scotland! And it’s a great ale drinkin’ song for pirates!

Barbra Allen, one of my favorite Child Ballads of course

Scarborough Faire- the original name of the Faire I perform at. Its origin is from a ballad originally called the Elfin King. (Another original Child Ballad) This woman gives this man impossible tasks to perform if he is to be her true love. She doesn’t really want to marry him because he is an Elf. And her requests are impossible to fulfill.