David Cunningham Snr’s musical journey began in his childhood home in Kettlebridge, Fife. Born into a musical family, his first notes came from a Christmas stocking mouth organ, quickly progressing to sneaking tunes on his father’s melodeon. His dad, Bill, who had spent time farming in Canada before returning to Scotland, and his mother Christina, a fine singer, supported his early musical endeavors.
At age five, David’s natural talent emerged when he played his first tune on the melodeon. His parents arranged formal lessons with Mr. JC Cook of Auchtermuchty, who taught him accordion, singing, and music theory. His father bought him his first accordion, a Bella Donna 24 bass, for £5 at Ladybank Auction.
David’s broadcasting career began remarkably early, making his BBC debut in 1956 at just 13 years old. While still at Bell Baxter High School, he kept his musical life private, working as a soloist with BBC producer Ben Lyon. His big break came when he joined the renowned Olympians Scottish Dance Band at 17, beginning a 16-year association that would help define his career.
In 1962, he formed The David Cunningham Trio, marking the start of his own musical legacy. His understanding of dance music was profound, emphasising that playing for dancers requires a different approach than performing for listeners. As he puts it, “The clue is in the title – Scottish DANCE Band!”
David’s contribution to Scottish music extends beyond performing. In later years, he established a successful recording studio with his son David Jr., under Thane Multimedia Ltd. The studio became known for its innovative approach to recording Scottish dance music, using multi-track recording techniques to capture the perfect performance.
His work in sound restoration has been particularly significant, remastering many historic recordings including those of his boyhood idol Will Starr. Using rare BBC transcription equipment and specialised software, he’s helped preserve countless pieces of Scotland’s musical heritage.
Throughout his career, David played with many of Scottish music’s greatest names, including Sir Jimmy Shand Jr., John Ellis, and Bill Hendry. He was also deeply involved with Scottish Country Dancing, playing regularly at RSCDS events and working with legendary figures like Miss Jean Milligan.
Today, retired from professional playing since 2009, David continues his passion for sound restoration as a hobby. His grandson Scott, a drummer in the dance band scene, carries on the family’s musical tradition, marking four generations since David’s grandfather first played melodeon for dances in the 1890s.
David’s legacy in Scottish traditional music encompasses performing, recording, teaching, and sound preservation. His contribution to the genre has earned him recognition in the Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to a lifetime dedicated to Scottish music.