Gathering good for musicians... and for business

Crieff was alive with the sound of music when more than 60 amateur enthusiasts arrived to spend the day playing traditional Scottish music in the town’s Strathearn Artspace.

Behind it all was award-winning tutor Nigel Gatherer.

The professional musician, who lives locally, has been involved in the performing, teaching, collecting and publishing of Scottish traditional music for 30 years and organises ‘The Gathering’ annually.

He told the Herald: “People come from all over, mostly from Glasgow and Edinburgh, but we had visitors from Troon, Dumfries, Elgin, and even one lady from Sydney.”

Held on May 21, the event was the fifth Gathering and the largest so far.

Nigel continued: “I teach music to adults around the country and it was always a dream of mine to organise a sort of musical away day and bring people together from my various classes and groups.

“Attendees get a speciallypublished, limited edition book containing all the music we play on the day, and we have music-themed quizzes to give people a rest and a laugh.”

The Gathering also contributes in a small way to local economy, with several people staying in local B&Bs and eating in the town’s restaurants.

Food on the day was catered by The Tuckie, and a coach was hired from Sweeney’s in Muthill to bring the musicians to Crieff.

Nigel added: “Lots of participants have asked if I could do another one in the autumn, and I may consider it. I usually have a long drive after a workshop, so it’s great to do one in my home town and saunter home in no time at all.”

Strathearn Artspace is in the midst of a major refurbishment but Nigel said he is delighted with the venue.

He added: “It really is ideal and the new toilets make a huge difference. I moved to the Artspace last year because I really wanted to support it. David Campbell has worked very hard to make it a hive of artistic activity and I’m pleased to be a part of its rebirth.”