Ceòlraidh was staged at the Strathpeffer Pavilion and gave up-and-coming young musicians an opportunity to play with their heroes.

Fèis Rois, organisers of Ceòlraidh, has been a leading light in the development of traditional Gaelic music among young people in the north, and also right across Scotland.

The proof of this has come with the sponsorship support of the Faculty of Advocates, based in Edinburgh.

It is a body of independent lawyers who have been admitted to practise as Advocates before the Courts of Scotland.

Bruce McKain, director of public affairs for the Faculty of Advocates said, "We like to put something back into the community, especially if it can have a positive effect on children. About six years ago we decided to look for projects we could support outwith the Central Belt where much of our work is done. Through Highland Council we contacted Fèis Rois and for three years now we have supported Ceòlraidh.

"It is probably one of the best things we do, along with our 'Mini-Trials' project which explains the legal system to schoolchildren by having them participate in staged trials in their schools, where the pupils even wear full wigs and gowns.

"I've attended Ceòlraidh myself and the standard is excellent. To see children as young as 11 take the stage and play for big audiences is impressive."

Young musicians had the opportunity to perform live with their mentors at the Fèis Rois Ceòlraidh concert at the Strathpeffer Spa Pavilion, part of the Blas Festival. Pictured ahead of the show are, from left, Angus Mackenzie with Ewan and Scott Duncan, Laura Wilkie with Charlie McKerron, Melissa Whithead with Gordon Gunn, and Mary MacGillivray with Alison Kinnaird. Andrew Smith 01862 832588

One of the lucky youngsters to benefit from the support of the Faculty of Advocates and Fèis Rois at this year's Ceòlraidh was 17-year old Laura Wilkie from Tain.

Said Laura, "I've been learning to play the fiddle since I joined the Fèis Rois movement at the age of eight.

I've also been taking master classes. This year at Ceòlraidh I will be performing with Charlie McKerron of Capercaillie and Session A9. I love fast tunes and reels and that's what we've been practising for the show.

"It is a dream come true to play with Charlie. I've learned so much from him and I think Ceòlraidh is such a great idea because people like myself get a chance to play with the best musicians, people who are normally so busy because they are in such demand."

Charlie McKerron has been impressed with the standard of young musician that the Fèis Rois, Ceòlraidh and the Blas Festival are showcasing, "I would say that the standard of the young performers is higher than it was when I was at a similar age and stage.

"The work with Laura for example is collaborative and she has had some great ideas for the show we're doing."

Printer friendly version

Email this article to a friend

Bookmark this

---