New Clarsach Society Folios

New Edition printed & distributed by Creighton's Collection


The Clarsach Society Folio
Folio 33 Jean Campbell Memorial Folio 
Mixed Ability Level 

Wire bound folio - £12 + p&p (members £10)
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Jean Campbell - An Appreciation (written June 1974)

Jean Campbell, whose death occurred this week at her Edinburgh home, made a notable contribution to the musical life of Scotland over the past 25 years by her dedication and devotion to the cause of Scotland's old national instrument, the clarsach. 

As a performer, arranger, accompanist and teacher, she spared no effort in fostering within her pupils and international festival audiences a love of the best in our heritage of songs and ballads. 

Trained at the Royal Academy of Music in London, she returned to Scotland after commissioned Army service in the Second World War. For a number of years she continued this Service interest in her spare time and was awarded the Territorial Decoration. 

During her long association with the Saltire Music Group she made many Festival appearances at Gladstone's Land (the most recent only last year despite the onset, even then, of the cruelly disabling illness which eventually claimed her life). 

She was Convener of the Edinburgh Branch of the Clarsach Society and her pupils had conspicuous successes at the National Mod. She gave a lesson at her bedside only a week or two before her death. 

To the memory of her characteristic humour, forthrightness, and kindness, her many friends will now add the remembrance of her courage. 

Tom Fleming 

June 1974 (reproduced with permission)

Tunes in the Book: 
1. Mnathan A' Ghlinne Seo (Women of this Glen) - 3 harps
2. Caol Muile (The Sound of Mull) - 3 harps
3. S'trusaidh mi na Coilleagan (The Cockle Gatherer) - 3 harps
4. The Peat Fire Flame (Lasair Teine Mònach) - flute, cello & 2 harps
5. The Skye Boat Song (Seòladh don Eilean Sgìtheanach) - fiddle / recorder & 2 harps
6. St Columba's Homesailing Prayer and Alleluia (Ùrnaigh Seòlaidh Cholm Cille) - voice & harp
7. Churning Song (Òran Ime) - recorder, fiddle & 2 harps
8. Cattle Croon (Island of South Uist) Crònan Cruidh (Uibhist a-Deas) - flute, cello & 2 harps
9. Iona Boat Song (Caol Muile) - fiddle / recorder & 2 harps
10. Spinning Song (from Lewis) Òran Snìomh (à Leòdhas) - fiddle / recorder & 2 harps