MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards 2017: Lauren MacColl

Congratulations to Lauren MacColl who have been nominated in Composer of the Year sponsored by PRS for Music in the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards 2017. Vote now!

We asked Lauren MacColl of Lauren MacColl the following questions.

Tell us about yourself
Lauren MacColl is considered one of Scotland’s most expressive fiddle players. Her performances are emotive, engaging and informed by an equal helping of tradition and technique. “The opening medley swiftly established many key hallmarks of MacColl’s playing: its wealth of dynamic variety and colour, the fluid agility and full-bodied weight of her bowing, her authoritative balance of fire and lyricism, vivacity and elegance.” (The Scotsman)
Originally from the Black Isle, she was immersed in the rich culture of the Highlands from a young age, learning her traditional music through the Feisean movement in Ross-Shire.
In 2004 Lauren won the BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award as a soloist, a platform for her to launch her career with her solo career, releasing two acclaimed albums on her own her own label, ‘When Leaves Fall‘ and ‘Strewn with Ribbons‘. The former was named ‘Classic Album‘ of Celtic Connections Festival 2008, and the second led to her win of the title ‘Instrumentalist of the Year’ at The MG Alba Scots Trad Music Awards 2009.

Lauren currently performs with chamber-folk quartet RANT, on viola and fiddle with Salt House , in the Rachel Newton Band and in a duo with flautist Calum Stewart.

In 2017 Lauren premiered a new commission for Feis Rois titled 'The Seer' – 40 minutes of music based on the life and prophecies of 17th Century Highland prophet The Brahan Seer. The music was released as an album in September, and this writing coincided with a move back to the Highlands, where she continues to teach, write and perform.

Why are you involved in Scottish music?
It is all around me, in every aspect of my life. It form friendships, facilitates dialogue, creates a social hub, allows for mutual learning and development, and feeds the soul.

Any particular career highlights?
Premiering 'The Seer' during Celtic Connections was the first time I'd heard a six-piece band play my scores- terrifying and rewarding all at once.

What are your plans for the future?
Releasing new Salt House album in Feb 2018, recording new RANT album late 2018, and climb more Munros.

If you would like to come along to the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards in Paisley’s Lagoon Centre call 0300 300 1210 or to buy online visit www.paisley2021.co.uk/events/the-mg-alba-scots-trad-music-awards. Tickets can also be purchased via Paisley Arts Centre. Bands performing on Saturday 2nd December include Elephant Sessions, The Shee Big Band, Siobhan Miller, Tidelines, Paisley Fèis, Snuffbox, The Seamus O’Sullivan Experience, Lori Watson, Jenna Reid and Harris Playfair, Songs of Bàrd Phàislig (featuring Gillebrìde MacIlleMhaoil, Sìneag MacIntyre, Màiri NicAonghais, Seonaidh MacIntyre, Ewan MacPherson, Mhairi Hall, Màiri Nic a Mhaoilein and more to be announced. There will also be a late night ceilidh after the Awards till 1am.