Skye tutor inducted into Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame
A Skye-based Gaelic singing tutor who has spent the past 24 years supporting Highland Council’s Gaelic Medium schools on the island was recently inducted into the Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame.
Kirsteen Graham, who retired from working in schools at the end of the last academic session, was honoured at a ceremony held in Inverness Airport on the 11 September. Depute Provost of Inverness Councillor Jean Slater supported the awards and presented prizes to those honoured.
The Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame is dedicated to giving acknowledgement and recognition to musicians and industry people who, by their dedication and hard work, have supported and influenced the development of Scottish traditional music during their lives
At the awards Kirsteen’s influence was acknowledged as reaching far and wide permeating the area’s cultural activities. Not only did she imbue her pupils with a love of their native song, but outside school hours she threw herself into running and managing Fèis an Earraich, nurturing young singers and musicians throughout Skye and Lochalsh.
Arthur Cormack, Chief Executive of Fèisean nan Gàidheal, said; “There are simply not enough hours in the school day to encompass the scope of Kirsteen’s work: she has spent years preparing children for the local and national Mòds and for Christmas and end-of-term concerts, and she has also, over many years, written original material for drama competitions and schools performances.”
Bill Alexander, Highland Council’s Director of Care and Learning paid homage to Kirsteen, he said: “This is a tremendous tribute to someone who has been committed to supporting children, and Gaelic music and culture on Skye for 24 years. This award recognises individuals that work tirelessly to help their community and enrich the lives of others through selfless service. Kirsteen has certainly given that service, and it is wonderful that she has received this remarkable acknowledgement from a national body.”
18 Sep 2015