Glasgow Skye concert success
On Saturday night, I headed along to the Glasgow University Union for the annual gathering concert of the Glasgow Skye Association.
The weather was absolutely atrocious which affected the turnout but, nevertheless, a fairly decent audience enjoyed a tremendous concert – with all the performers in good form.
Unfortunately, I arrived slightly late so only caught the end of the guest of honour’s speech but could immediately tell the audience had thoroughly enjoyed David Ross’s stories of the island and of Sorley MacLean, in particular.
Wilma Kennedy was the first singer up on stage. She was the only singer on the night who sang all her songs without accompaniment – starting with the beautiful Òganaich an Òir Fhuillt Bhuidhe. Her final song hadn’t initially been on the programme but she justified this by saying her mother (Kenna Campbell, who was in the audience) had requested it – and nobody was going to argue with that!
Arthur Cormack then sang a couple of Skye songs: utilising, for the second, the superb accompaniment of Alan Kitchen.
One reason I always love the Skye concerts is the chance to listen to Alan’s piano playing which, to my mind, for Gaelic songs, is among the best in the business.
Robert Nairn then appeared with his box and gave us a couple of 2/4s followed by Skye waltzes such as Rubha Bhatairnis, Soraidh Leis an Àit, and Morag of Dunvegan. You can imagine how well the audience sang along with these classics.
Rachel Walker was next and she performed Maraiche nan Cuantan and Thoir Mo Shoraidh beautifully in the first half and teamed up with Robert Nairn for a great rendition of a good Lochaber song (Braigh’ Loch Iall) in the second half.
James Graham had everyone laughing with a mention of the 'unspeakable' things Calum Ross had taught him at the RSAMD, and everyone singing with Skye song, Tiugainn Leam Thar Saille.
The second half was every bit as good as the first and George MacDonald’s vote of thanks to all the artists was heartfelt.
Well done to the committee of the Glasgow Skye for hosting such a good night and particularly to Fiona Ross,
who kept the concert going flawlessly by introducing each act to the stage.