About Gaelic Song Stories
Throughout this podcast series I will be looking at the stories and themes behind Scottish Gaelic songs. We have a rich repertoire of songs in Scotland that document life in the Highlands and much further afield in a way that the history books do not. As I delve into them I want to take you on a journey to explore the Scottish Gàidhealtachd and its seanchas, or lore, and I’ll be looking at the influences from Europe as well as looking into the Gaels’ reach across the world.
As a Gaelic singer myself, I have a lifelong affinity with the songs and stories that surrounded me growing up on the Isle of Skye, which are echoed across the Highlands.
“Deirdre’s singing is always assured and has a rare clarity; she makes you hear songs in a
different way.”
John Waltham, The Living Tradition
"Gorgeous and ethereal Gaelic vocal."
Music Republic Magazine
“These tales… acquire added drama and range from person-to-person intimacy through the rugged and filmlike to the rocking out of ‘Òran Mòr Scoirebreac’ before closing with the murmuring ‘Uamh An Òir’. “
⭐⭐⭐ Rob Adams, Songlines
These are songs that express love through an eloquence of poetry, songs that champion the ordinary people and praise the Clan Chief, songs that give a glimpse into the empowerment of women and songs that simply entertain. These have remained with us for hundreds of years through a carrying stream of tradition and are continually evolving today.
I look forward to sharing these stories with you on this journey.
Dùrachdan,
Deirdre x
Gaelic Song Stories is brought to you with support from Creative Scotland