Trad star works with choir
TRADITIONAL music star puts a Gaelic choir through its paces.
ASPIRING Gaelic singers were in fine voice on Wednesday as traditional music sensation Robert Robertson stopped by to lend a helping hand.
The Coisir og Dhail Riata choir met for a very special rehearsal as they continue their preparations for a number of upcoming events.
Robert, a Mòd gold medallist and front man of traditional band Tide Lines, made the journey up from Glasgow to spend an evening with the girls, offering advice and guidance on technique, performance and how to handle nerves.
Having won numerous Gaelic singing competitions and played to a sold-out Royal Concert Hall in Glasgow, Robert’s guidance was invaluable to the choir.
Confidence
Chairwoman of the choir June Graham, said: ‘The idea behind getting Robert in was to help boost confidence and, of course, to get a few extra tips.
His help will also, hopefully, raise awareness of the choir and encourage more people to get involved.’
Robert was grateful for the invitation to come to Lochgilphead and was kept busy at the session.
He explained: ‘We worked a lot on the tone of the notes, the smoothness of the phrases, as well as adding some different dynamics into the songs. Best of all, at the end, we had a wee ceilidh and the girls sang along with a few songs.’
Choir conductor Cheryl Naisby was slightly apprehensive about the evening overall, saying: ‘I’m new to the position of conductor and to have Robert come along is quite nerve-racking. But I’m sure Robert is a bit nervous about tutoring us too.’
Coisir og Dhail Riata is competing at the Mid Argyll Music Festival on Saturday March 25 and is already looking ahead to the National Mòd competitions in October
Enjoying
Cheryl is very much enjoying her return to the choir, after 12 years, and can’t wait to compete together at the music festival next week.
Robert matched Cheryl’s enthusiasm for the young choir, commenting: ‘I was very impressed. Cheryl Naisby has worked wonders with their musical sound and Christine Johnston does a great job with their Gaelic. I was only there to offer my opinion where I could, and I was delighted to do so.’
The choir is always looking for new recruits and stress that no experience of Gaelic is needed. Anyone is welcome to join. It meets every Wednesday from 4.30-6pm in room six at the community centre.