The North East's musical heritage is more than just a concord of notes; it's a living testament to the enduring spirit of its people. From the halls of Aberdeen's musical institutions to the lively dance floors where ceilidhs echoe through the ages, music and dance are engrained in this region.
Music is a hugely prevalent aspect of the North East due to the fantastic educational opportunities and highly-anticipated events. The Aberdeen City Music School offers a scholarship-based music education with boarding facilities and weekly lessons and the University of Aberdeen's music department is also greatly regarded- both nurturing talent from across Scotland. Meanwhile, the annual jazz festival is attended by many and throughout the year Aberdeen venues are filled with performances showcasing classical music, Scottish traditional, jazz and all the genres in between. Throughout time, music has filled this region with life and proudly holds the origins of many impactful moments in song and literature. Because of this, dancing has always been involved in the weekend routine of the North East from the traditional weekly ceilidh dances to the present weekly club nights in Tunnels.
Bothy ballads are a main aspect of music history as they have stood the test of time in reuniting the Doric dialect and soulful narratives of the traditional ways of life. Originally confined to farm outbuildings, these ballads evolved into revered performances at farm shows and competitions. They were written in an effort to entertain and stimulate the mind after a long day's hard work which offers a humorous and completely honest element of storytelling. It was very rare for women to be initiators of the song writing of bothy ballads, but in recent years there are female musicians who are proudly keeping this part of their heritage alive such as Ellie Beaton and Shona Donaldson. These songs are implausibly moving to hear, especially for most natives, as they are traditionally unaccompanied, with the powerful voice and broad accent epitomising Scottish honour. If they are accompanied, you will hear waves of sound from fiddles to accordions.
From bothy ballads to pipe bands, the emergence of North East music has spurred on a proudful dance culture. There has always been a celebration of heritage which mainly stemmed from the weekly dances that would be organised around the halls and marquees of every corner. This was the time for socialising out with your village so attendance felt indispensable. These dances would hold many from near and far, with sneaky drinks easing everyone into their social duties, and a traditional Scots band enthusiastically encouraging each step to be taken. Ceilidh dancing, Scotland's traditional dance, is hugely integral in the memories of growing up in the North East. As kilts swish and all care in the world is gone, it is clear to see how much music itself has provided the North East with infinite memories and profound cultural pride.
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