Positive impact on top fiddler’s life
“The moment I heard my name called in second place at the senior championship, I felt so many emotions,” explained Amber. “I think it was largely relief that the hard work had paid off.”
This was not Amber’s first time placed at a competition, but it followed a twoyear break from competing.
She recently moved to Perth to study psychology at Perth College and originally comes from Fochabers.
But since making Perth her new home, she’s built on a promising start as a musician, joining the Perth Strathspey and Reel Society and continuing to play as a member of the prestigious Scottish Fiddle Orchestra.
Amber explained how she has been learning traditional fiddle since she was 10, receiving tuition from James Alexander in primary school, continuing with him for around seven years.
At high school, Amber was part of the Fochabers Fiddlers which saw her play in small local concerts with a high point being playing with the group at the Albert Hall in London.
Key tutors were Alexander Davidson until she finished school and since March this year, Fiona Driver in Inverness.
“Going to Fiona has probably been one of the best decisions I ever made, Fiona has really helped me so much with my playing; both repertoire and technique,” explained Amber.
“The Scottish Fiddle Orchestra also takes me to some pretty incredible venues. Aside from that, I now play with Perth Strathspey and Reel Society.
“Sometimes I do freelance stuff which I love, mostly turning up and playing with a band or sometimes doing wee solo performances.
“I’m now based in Perth, studying psychology at Perth College UHI. Perth is very central for my music. It also offers the benefits of accessibility to a wide range of places and opportunities. I also find the scenery and walks available here very relaxing.”