Understanding

Building on the success of Mhairi Hall Trio's Cairngorm, virtuosic pianist Mhairi and acclaimed fiddler and composer Patsy Reid have combined their unique musical talents and created Contours of Cairngorm. Hall says, "From conception, I had always imagined our music with strings.  I was really excited to get the opportunity from Celtic Connections for Patsy and I to work together again and create this piece."  Having expanded the music of Cairngorm, Contours of Cairngorm features Scotland's premiere string ensemble The Edinburgh Quartet, alongside the Trio and Patsy.  The duo's dynamic string writing offers both sheer beauty and rugged edge, whilst complimenting the powerful rhythmic energy of the Trio's music perfectly - the result is striking and highly emotive.

 

This debut concert was recorded in the beautiful Grand City Halls, Glasgow as part of Celtic Connections 2011.  The audience experienced a stunning performance and extremely special atmosphere. Reid recalls "I loved every second of that gig; it was such a pleasure to have our orchestrations realised and performed by such fantastic musicians, and in such a beautiful venue. Thank goodness it was captured and we are proud to share this recording."

 

Contours of Cairngorm was mixed by world-renowned producer and musician, Dónal Lunny.

 

Download the Press release