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Inverness Music Festival praised – some talents showcased at March 19 concert


By Margaret Chrystall

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A BUSY crowd enjoyed a welcome return for duos and bands performing live on Saturday at Inverness Music Festival.

Ainsley, Ruairidh and Colette Gilmour from Craighill Primary in Tain performed the traditional Scottish song. Picture: Callum Mackay
Ainsley, Ruairidh and Colette Gilmour from Craighill Primary in Tain performed the traditional Scottish song. Picture: Callum Mackay

Festival administrator Sam Hodi said: “We were thrilled with the very high standard of performance at the Elizabeth Davis premier competition.

Alasdair Macleod, Mirren Silver and John Morrison. Picture: James Mackenzie
Alasdair Macleod, Mirren Silver and John Morrison. Picture: James Mackenzie

"It was a very difficult job for our adjudicators Eric Allan and Rachel Campbell.

Grace Kelman won the pibroch, jig and MSR under 15s. Picture: James Mackenzie
Grace Kelman won the pibroch, jig and MSR under 15s. Picture: James Mackenzie

“And well done to Grace Kelman for another exceptional piping performance.”

Traditional Scottish song primary winner Isla Swanson, Inverness Gaelic School. Picture: Callum Mackay
Traditional Scottish song primary winner Isla Swanson, Inverness Gaelic School. Picture: Callum Mackay

Adjudicator Rachel Campbell also posted on her Facebook page: “I was overwhelmed by the talent of the young fiddle players I saw at the IMF. Wow!

Elizabeth Cowie and Hugh Burnett. Picture: James Mackenzie.
Elizabeth Cowie and Hugh Burnett. Picture: James Mackenzie.

"And the festival association’s Jason McClurg said: “This was a very successful festival for my first one as chairperson and I’m looking forward to the future!”

Pupils from five local primary schools – St Joseph’s, Dalneigh, Bishop Eden’s, Merkinch and Central – all performed on the day with confidence and pride.

Iona Browne, Natasha Browne, Emma Racionzer and Iona McWhinney. Picture: James Mackenzie
Iona Browne, Natasha Browne, Emma Racionzer and Iona McWhinney. Picture: James Mackenzie

Jamie MacKenzie, musician in residence with High Life Highland, worked with all five schools to prepare pupils for the festival.

St Joseph’s Primary won the P1-3 choir category.
St Joseph’s Primary won the P1-3 choir category.

His enthusiasm for music left all headteachers delighted that around 300 pupils across the associated school group were able to prepare, rehearse, plan and perform at this year’s festival.

Norman Bolton, head of music development with High Life Highland, attended one event in the packed programme and said: “What a treat! Superb performances and stage presence from all groups.”

St Joseph’s P6 class won the uniformed group prize.
St Joseph’s P6 class won the uniformed group prize.

The showcase concert for this year’s festival is set to take place on Sunday, March 19 at 2.30pm.

Entry by optional donation.


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