EDINBURGH’S TradFest kicks off next Thursday (April 26) with an opening concert celebrating the passing on of songs, stories and dance down through the generations.
Passing It On at the Scottish Storytelling Centre on High Street will feature many of the country’s finest young performers playing alongside those who have influenced them.
Gaelic singing trio Sian, Ellen MacDonald, Eilidh Cormack and Ceitlin LR Smith, will be joined on stage by one of their inspirations, Christine Primrose.
Primrose is one of the foremost exponents of Gaelic song in the world and is someone who is steeped in the tradition.
“I grew up in a Gaelic speaking community where singing was a major part of that,” said Primrose. “I think that in every oral tradition singing is quite natural and it doesn’t cost any money! Having sung in many places around the world it took me a while to understand why people without the language and knowledge of the culture could possibly be interested in what I sang.
“I have now realised that what they connect with is their authenticity. Songs are very often telling of people’s heartfelt experiences, songs borne of one tragedy or another. It was a way to express grief and joy, allowing for a cathartic experience.”
To be able to sing alongside such a talent is an exciting opportunity for the talented trio.
“She has been an inspiration to us all over the years and is a treasure-trove of Gaelic song,” said Cormack.
“We’ve enjoyed sharing songs with her for this occasion, combining the more traditional and the more modern, and we’re looking forward to a great night.”
Also appearing will be fiddler Ryan Young, whose debut album heralded the arrival of a major talent. Young will be playing alongside his former teacher Marie Fielding, a self-taught, award-winning musician and composer.
Elsewhere on the bill, piper and 2016 Radio 2 Young Folk Award winner Brighde Chaimbeul will perform with Fin Moore, while musician and stepdancer Josephine De Geer will be joined on stage by the pioneering traditional dance group Dannsa, featuring Caroline Reagh, Sandra Robertson and Moore. It promises to be a cross-generational celebration of all that is good in traditional music.
Passing It On is at the Scottish Storytellling Centre, High Street, Edinburgh on April 26. Edinburgh TradFest runs until Sunday May 6
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