Donald Grant : Open Fund for Music Creators
Donald Grant
Donald Grant is a violinist, fiddle player, collaborator and composer based in Glasgow, Scotland. At an early age he was immersed in the folk tradition of the Highlands of Scotland, learning Gaelic songs from his father who was a singer and teacher. He has since followed a path that defies one musical genre, travelling the globe collaborating with many artists and organisations. A passionate advocate for the music of his native home, Donald’s recent solo performances include the Wigmore Hall, Southwell Festival, Cucagnan Festival, RNCM Festival and the Weesp Festival.
Thuit an Oidhche Oirnm (‘The Night Overtook Us’)
This funding will support the creation, rehearsal, and promotion of Donald Grant’s new commission titled “Thuit an Oidhche Oirnm” (The Night Overtook Us) including performances with Aurora Orchestra, Manchester Camerata and The Scottish Ensemble. Donald will be working with a new core band of guitar (Innes White), piano (Tom Gibbs) and double bass (Euan Burton). These musicians are some of Scotland’s most revered folk/jazz collaborators. They will also be joined by a guest Gaelic singer (Mischa Macpherson) and Uilleann piper (Calum Stewart) for many of the performances. The piece is inspired by the hardship, wild beauty and community spirit of a Winter in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. It is rooted in traditional Gaelic Music of the Highlands and Islands, and will incorporate elements of improvisation, classical form, minimalism and cinematic orchestral textures.