Our Spotlight this week lands on Mairi Campbell. Mairi has been a member of the Traditional Dance Forum of Scotland (TDFS) for many years and is on the TDFS board.
This week she is launching the first of four workshops in ‘Step Dance and Fiddling’. The workshops will help musicians learn to play for dancers, and teach beginner steps for anyone wishing to learn Scottish Step Dance. Find out more here.
So who is the woman, the myth, the legend, Mairi Campbell?
All About Mairi
Mairi Campbell is a pioneering Scottish musician. Her work is rooted in, and draws from, personal stories and cultural concerns.
After studying classical viola at the Guildhall School of Music, she has become an established member of Scotland’s traditional music scene. Pushing the boundaries with her use of free improvisation, songs and stagecraft.
As an interpreter of Scots song, with David Francis, Mairi has contributed a significant number of songs to its current canon. She is the recipient of six national music awards including the Inspiration Award in 2018. Mairi was inducted into the Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame in 2019.
Mairi’s Performances
Her first two solo shows Pulse (2016) and Auld Lang Syne (2018) have gained much critical acclaim and toured widely. The third part of her solo trilogy is due in 2021.
Since 2010 Mairi has been co-writing songs with musician and producer Dave Gray. These are now being realised on stage by her nine-piece ensemble, the Pendulum Band.
Mairi writes:
“I am particularly passionate about step dance, but love moving my body to everything from Scottish dance bands to Michael Jackson. I love being a part of the trad dance community and hope to inspire folks to find a few steps and groove along to our great music.”
What Now
Since Covid, Mairi has established a weekly online Ceilidh called Campbell’s Ceilidh. It’s a free, online, live event that she curates and hosts. This will continue until lockdown is over and could possibly continue after that. Check it out on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1073287133041711/
Take Part
To find out more or sign up for Mairi’s workshops please visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/113345974862
