THE National Library of Scotland in Edinburgh is teaming up with musicians and storytellers to hold Gaelic folklore performances.
Under the curation of fiddler Aidan O’Rourke reading rooms will be "transformed into musical performance spaces"
Titled Beacon, the performances come amid an exhibition on show at the National Library – Sgeul | Story: Folktales from the Scottish Highlands.
The display tells the tale of John Francis Campbell (or Iain Òg Ìle), a 19th-century figure who collected and printed Gaelic folktales that were in danger of being lost as the oral tradition dwindled.
His entire collection of archival material and library books is held in the National Library.
Campbell’s archive is a source of inspiration for artists and musicians.
That’s why fiddler O’Rourke, alongside musicians Allan MacDonald, Sarah-Jane Summers, and storyteller Eddie Linehan created this musical performance.
O’Rourke said: “We’ll hear stories linked to Ossianic ballads from Eddie Linehan – one of the few remaining practising seanchaithe, or traditional Irish lore-keepers.
“We’ll hear Gaelic in story, song and music from one of Scotland’s great pipers and singers, Allan McDonald, a true tradition bearer.
“I’ll contribute Highland fiddle tunes and we welcome Sarah-Jane Summers to play Norwegian Hardanger fiddle as a note to Campbell’s fascination for Scandinavia.”
Beacon is aimed at showcasing Scotland’s knowledge, history and culture.
National librarian Amina Shah said: “We are committed to experimenting with the collections and our spaces to inspire and entertain people in new ways.
“So we commissioned Aidan O’Rourke – one of Scotland’s most celebrated musicians – to respond to these stories and spaces.
“We are really looking forward to seeing Beacon in action – transforming our spaces at George IV Bridge into what will be a magical evening.”
The musical performance takes visitors through the vaulted foyer of the National Library of Scotland and finishes in the Special Collections Reading Room with panoramic views of Arthur’s Seat in the distance.
There are two showings of Beacon on the evening of Saturday, September 30, at 6pm and 8.30pm.
Doors open 30 minutes before each performance to give access to a paid bar selling alcohol, soft drinks and snacks, as well as a chance to see the exhibition.
Tickets are limited to around 30 attendees per performance. Tickets cost £10/£8 (plus booking fee) and can be bought via Eventbrite.
