Robert Burns - the Man, the Myth & the Music
Castlebay
The poet Robert Burns (1759-1796) collected and wrote new lyrics for hundreds of traditional Scottish folk tunes which he felt were falling into obscurity. Working in the Scots language of the lowlands, which is distinct from the Gaelic of the highlands and islands, he produced many masterpieces of 18th century poetry and song. Among these are My Love is Like a Red Red Rose, Comin' Through the Rye and Auld Lang Syne, popular even today at New Year's celebrations. His short but colorful life has become the subject of both legend and scholarly documentary.
The duo Castlebay (Julia Lane & Fred Gosbee) have studied the man,the myth, and the music. They have presented performances for arts centers, concert series, and schools throughout the northeast. In their program romantic love songs are interspersed with lively dance tunes as well as poems and anecdotes about Scotland's National Poet.
"Thank you so much for coming to the Ridgefield Library to share the fascinating life and work of Robert Burns with our audience. What a wonderful evening of music, poetry, and song. You can't get a better combination than that!
Everyone I spoke to afterwards really enjoyed the show, especially the Scottish contingent. I think you probably made a lot of people yearn for the "old country!"
Good luck and thanks again,
Leslie Lambton
Adult Programming Director
The Ridgefield Library and Historical Association
Ridgefield, Connecticut
Castlebay is well known for their sensitive arrangements of traditional Scottish music. Both Julia Lane and Fred Gosbee are fine vocalists and support their singing with a variety of instruments including Celtic harp, guitar, fiddle and woodwinds. They have toured the British Isles annually since 1993 playing at folk clubs, art centres, and festivals. They have recorded several albums of both traditional and original work including Ae Fond Kiss and Rantin’, Rovin’, Robin, which feature the songs of Robert Burns.
Type: Music
Ages: Adult
