Round up of music, books and art at Strontian

Martin Taylor concert

The Sunart Centre hosted a concert by world-renowned jazz guitarist Martin Taylor MBE on Friday July 19, playing a very special gig in aid of Ewen’s Room.

Playing two sets, Taylor captivated the audience with his beautiful playing. There were Taylor’s own interpretations of a variety of songs, instantly recognisable despite his claim – ‘I’m a jazz musician, if you recognise the original song I’m not doing my job properly!’ – but also several of Taylor’s own compositions, including a beautiful song, One Day, a tribute to his late son.

Multi-award-winning and critically acclaimed musician Taylor, who tours the world but is based here in Scotland, has ties to Strontian thanks to local instrument maker Mike Vanden.

Taylor told his enraptured audience: ‘I was only too happy to come and play this evening and support Ewen’s Room.’

The Sunart Centre has a programme of events throughout the summer with films and music with the Donald Black band appearing on August 2 and FRAS on August 23, regular monthly cinema screenings and a film week from August 5.

Rob Fairley book

Resipole art gallery held the official book launch of Rob Fairley’s book, Prinaka – a day sketching in Dhaka, on Sunday.

Signed copies of the book were available, a chance to meet Fairley himself and see some of the original artwork from the book.

The book is selling well and getting rave reviews. Fairley remains hopeful that maybe Prinaka herself may even hear about it and get in touch.

The launch was very well attended, with the summer exhibitions on display featuring several new artists.

There are various events including live music hosted at the studio over the summer.