Watercolour Music is delighted to announce that singer and composer Mary Ann Kennedy will travel to Arctic Norway next month to compete in the final of Liet International, the European songwriting competition for minority languages.
One of eight finalists from right across Europe, Mary Ann will perform a song co-written with the Gaelic poet Marcas Mac an Tuairneir. The song is called ‘Grioglachan’ (Constellation), a celebration of the life of her cousin and greatest musical partner-in-crime, Maggie Macdonald, who died unexpectedly last year. Along with her cousin, Maggie was a member of the Gaelic band, Cliar, and a member of Inverness Gaelic Choir, which is directed by Mary Ann.
Mary Ann and Marcas will be joined in their journey to Sápmi, the cultural homelands of the Sámi people in northern Scandinavia by seven other members of the choir, and by Mary Ann’s band – Finlay Wells (Coast), Lorne MacDougall (Red Hot Chilli Pipers) and Euan Burton. The stellar sound will be completed with special soundscapes created by Mary Ann’s husband and co-director of Watercolour, Nick Turner.
Mary Ann said, “The song sets Maggie as a new star in the sky, as there was nothing she liked better, after music and family, than to lie back and watch the big Highland night skies. I hope we can do her justice”.
Marcas Mac an Tuairneir said, “It’s an honour to be the Gaelic representative finalist in such a prestigious competition, and being there during the Sámi’s big spring festival, which is hosting Liet this year, makes it even more special.”
The Scottish contingent will be travelling with the generous support of Bòrd na Gàidhlig and Còisir Ghàidhlig Inbhir Nis.
Liet International takes place on Thursday 13 April 2017 in Kautokeino, in the north of Norway, with eight acts representing eight different minority and regional languages, including Bashkir, Sranan Tongo, Udmurt, Breton and Frisian. Liet International is a Frisian (northern Netherlands) initiative which travels to different host destinations under the patronage of the Council of Europe, and is one of the biggest promoters of minority language in Europe. This year’s competition is sponsored by the Sámi parliament.
For information on the Foundation Liet International, contact president, Yvonne Bleize:
T: +31 611 039494 E: lietint@gmail.com W: www.liet-international.com
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