Performing Update:
Last Thursday night it was great to be part of the Charity Variety Performance in Bonnyrigg, in aid of Coeliac UK and the Chest, Heart and Stroke Association.
It was a chilly evening as I arrived with my clarsach, but it was warm and welcoming within the church - a packed house. It was a snug fit for the performers too, but I felt very relaxed sitting on stage waiting my turn, tapping my foot and enjoying the other first half acts: the Can't Help Singing choir, the Bonnyrigg and Lasswade Brass Band, and in particular the brilliant Matthew Maclennan on his accordion.
I played two sets, interspersing well-known tunes such as 'My Love is Like a Red Red Rose' and 'Skye Boat Song' with less familiar Scottish melodies and also some O'Carolan favourites.
Composing Update:
The chamber orchestra version of my 2016 score 'This is My Beloved' is now complete. I have been engrossed in the writing of this work since mid 2014. It has undergone quite a few changes in that time (including a change of title). Watch this space for details of future performances.
In terms of new projects, I have had an idea for an historically-themed piece for children's choir and piano. Nothing on paper yet, but again, watch this space.