On the fiddle in land o’ Burns
The 267- year old violin belonging to Burns’ dance teacher will be played a the inaugural Land o’ Burns Fiddle Weekend, from September 27- 29.
The festival, run by Troon- based Scotia Arts, aims to support, sustain and encourage Scottish fiddle music. Director Blair Parham is also the conductor and musical director of the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra, and organises the annual Stirling Bridge International Arts Festival.
Blair said: “Ayrshire is bursting with music lovers, musicians, open mic nights and weekly jam sessions, however, Scotia Arts recognises the desire for more fiddle workshops and concerts.”
On Saturday September 28 there will be an intimate concert at the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum open for the public, where the sought- after fiddle tutors will be showcasing their skills. The museum has granted permission for the Gregg Violin to be played. It belonged to Robert Burns’ dance teacher William Gregg and Blair said: “To see and hear this instrument, which dates back to 1750, a stone’s throw from Burns Cottage will be memorable.”