Fiddler’s fans move up a key to back new album

Pledges of support spur release of record that was threatened by virus impact

A talented fiddler from Fife has thanked music lovers for digging deep to help him beat the continuing coronavirus lockdown.

David Grubb, from East Wemyss, had feared the Covid-19 crisis was about to scupper the release of his album which had taken him almost two years to record.

But after launching an online funding campaign in which fans pledged in advance to support the release of his album, the 29-year-old says he has achieved his dream.

The full-time musician, who has performed at events including Cambridge Folk Festival and Glasgow’s famous Celtic Connections, said he was delighted with the show of support.

“Like almost every other musician I rely heavily on performing live in a number of bands to be able to put food on the table, but the coronavirus pandemic has made performing impossible for the foreseeable future at least,” said David.

“So getting this album out and released is vital and something that has taken months so I’m extremely grateful to everyone who has pledged their support.”

The album of modern instrumental folk music – titled Nano – consists of compositions written entirely by David and featuring influences from jazz, country, rock, and classical.

He said it was a departure from previous projects because it was recorded against the backdrop of Brexit, global political unrest and the growing awareness of environmental issues.

“It’s certainly taken on a darker perspective because of the political turmoil that was going on while recording it but I wouldn’t want that to put people off,” he said.

“I’d like to add that the album does also end on a positive and upbeat note and had been well received by those who have heard it so far.”

He has come a long way from the eight-year-old Coaltown-of-wemyss pupil who first picked up a violin in one of the school’s music lessons more than two decades ago.

“I fell in love with the instrument immediately and knew before I’d even left primary school that I wanted to play music for a living,” he said.

“It’s my dream job to be a musician and this album is a big part of that.”

For more information about David’s work, go to www.davidgrubb. co.uk

Picture: Rhodri Brooks Photography. David Grubb says getting the album out was “vital” to him.