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The Outer Hebrides lie on the on the Western Periphery of Europe. They are the heartland and last remaining bastion of Scottish Gaelic Language and Culture. This site is dedicated to one of their most potent exports - their music.
There is perhaps more traditional music in the Hebrides, per head of population, than anywhere else on Earth and few, if any, other traditions can match its quality and variety. This is a remarkable achievement for a tiny community at the periphery of Europe.
Gaelic melodies have been appropriated into English songs for centuries. Robert Burns "borrowed" many as settings for his songs. Others like "Mairi's Wedding" are internationally known and the bagpipes and their music are equally recognised. Even Shakespeare in the play "Henry V" mentions a Gaelic song (Cailin og gun stuair thu mise). One could justifiably say that Scottish Gaeldom's greatest gift to mankind was its music.
Gaelic music has something for everyone. In form, from beautiful, simple twenty note songs to complex and sonorous twenty minute pipe tunes. In Theme, from Laments and Love Songs to merry Dance Tunes. And in rhythm, from ancient arhythmical melodies to the driving force of work and dance music.
You can find out about all these aspects - and about the Gaels themselves by following the links below. Enjoy.
