Berneray Singers

Such was the success of the previous event another cèilidh was held at the Lobster Pot on Berneray in January, again with the intention, among other things, of encouraging Gaelic learners to come forward and put their new skills to use. There was a great variety of songs and tunes, with contributions from all round the room.

Duncan Mackinnon, in particular, was prevailed upon to sing several times in his supremely relaxed traditional style. One of the songs he delivered was his version of Òran a’ Vita.

You can hear it here:

Extracts from a printed version of the song are available here. The thing about “traditional” singing is that while it’s a living tradition it mutates and develops, constantly producing “new” versions of “old” songs. Learner-listeners are invited to compare Duncan’s version with the written one, and note the differences. How many additional verses does he sing? Do you notice any other changes?

And then from the sublime to the singalong – Archie’s Gaelic class give a sturdy rendition of a cèilidh favourite, Birlinn Ghoraidh Chròbhain.

Here’s the transcript. Why not join in in the privacy of your own home?