It's always a pleasure to be introduced to an excellent traditional fiddler, and New England's Laura Risk fits the bill. To my knowledge, I had never heard her name before this CD arrived at my doorstep, but if the Fates are kind and the music industry is wise, I'll hear a lot more from her in the future.

The performance on 16 tracks -- more than an hour of tunes -- combines the feel of a classical recital with an undeniable exuberance in the music. Risk's fiddle dances through the music like a live thing, and you can't help but wonder if her nimble fingers have ever missed a note. Her playing is emotional, sincere, gorgeous.

There's no doubt the fiddle is the star of this recording, but Risk obviously doesn't mind sharing the glory. Rounding out her band are Susie Petrov on piano, Dennis Cahill on guitar, Christopher Layer on wooden flutes and Scottish small pipes, and Brian Melick on percussion. They don't just sit in the background supporting Risk's brilliant playing; they have their turns in the spotlight as well, and they prove to be a fine bunch of musicians well suited to the task.

Most of the tunes here are traditional Scottish dance pieces, although the selection is sprinkled with the influences of Ireland, New England, Cape Breton and Quebec, plus two Risk originals and a handful by other composers. There is ample variety here; Risk never lets the play-list settle for too long in any particular style. In the CD's generous liner notes, Risk explains how she came to learn each tune.

The entire album is a delight, and anyone who enjoys a well-played fiddle should expect to play The Merry Making for many a contented hour.