A decade before I fell in love with Scotland and her people, I fell in love with her music. The Tannahill Weavers came first, then Capercaillie, followed by a host of fiddlers, pipers, and flute-wielding Scotsmen. I easily have a dozen versions of โAre Ye Sleeping Maggie?โ and โHey, Johnnie Copeโ on the CD racks that stretch across the wall of my writing study, and I never tire of singing along. (Results may vary.)
Traditional or not so traditional, with or without bagpipes, Scottish music fills the soul as well as the ear. Whether it sets your foot tapping or brings a tear to your eye, the music seldom leaves you unmoved.
Want something upbeat, sung with a broad swath of Lowland Scots? Have a taste of โTranent Muirโ from the Tannahill Weavers:
In the mood for something moody? Hereโs โAignish,โ a haunting melody sung in Gaelic by Karen Matheson (she was the singer in the 1995 movie, Rob Roy) with Capercailllie:
You can find Scottish music anywhere you buy music online. My favorite site for listening, browsing, and learning is MusicScotland.com.
For something spirited and eclectic, check out the Peatbog Faeries from the Isle of Skye. Love the fiddle, as I do? Youโll not go wrong with anything by Aly Bain and Phil Cunningham.
When I wrote my fourth historical novel, Grace in Thine Eyes, the music of fiddler Alasdair Fraser and cellist Natalie Haas was on constant repeat. Their latest release looks and sounds promising.
I also can’t get enough of composer / harpist William Jackson and his albums,ย A Scottish Island, Inchcolm,ย andย The Ancient Harp of Scotland.
If you want to listen to a true Scot singing the traditional tunes of her Lowland home, Jean Redpath has no peer. I first heard her on Garrison Keillorโs radio show,ย A Prairie Home Companion. Whenever I drive around Galloway or the Borders, Jean Redpath lives in my CD player (and doesna seem to mind). Look for her solo work onย The Songs of Robert Burnsย in seven volumes. Treasures, all.
Sometime last century I was in a wee shop in Castle Douglas listening enraptured to a Celtic harpist on the shop’s sound system. When I asked the clerk if I she knew anything about the music, she handed me the CD cover. An American musician on an American label? Indeed, Sue Richards plucks her harp out on Hazel Grove, Morning Aire, andย Grey Eyed Morn. Three real gems.
Many excellent performers of traditional Scottish music live (dare I say it?) in the United States. The guitar work of William Coulter onย Celtic Crossings, Celtic Sessions, andย The Crooked Roadย is exceptional. And Abby Newton plays her cello with genuine emotion onย Crossing to Scotlandย andย Castles, Kirks and Caves. Real stand-outs, both of them.
Three more online retailers with lots of helpful information includeย MaggiesMusic.com, GreenLinnet.com, and Greentrax.com.
Untilย my nextย post, I leave you with a simple contest and one more ethereal tune from Karen Matheson and Capercailllie, โOh Mo Dhuthaichโ:
While youโre listening, kindly post a comment below, noting your favorite Scottish band, favorite Scottish tune, orย your favorite Scottish style of music.ย No singing required.
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Amazing Grace on bagpipes! It doesnt get any better than that!
As a descendant of Scottish Clan Davidson I have always wanted to learn my family’s bagpipe song
Can’t wait to read A wreath of Snow.
I don’t listen to Scottish music very much but I really enjoyed the song “Aignish” above. It reminded me of the music in the Lord Of The Ring movies. Very moody sounding like you said but very pretty. Thank you for sharing!! With my last name being “McCarty” you’d think I would know all about Scottish music! ๐
I love โOh Mo Dhuthaichโ! I have scotish ancestors and this music helps me learn more abouabout their culture!
I don’t have a favorite style or artist in Scottish music but I hope you’ll still enter me in your contest, because I do love learning more about this intriguing culture and people and I LOVE your books!
My favorite songs are “Highland Laddie” and “Annie Laurie”. Having a lot of Scottish blood in me, I love Scottish folk music.
I discovered the Mudmen (www.mudmen.ca) a few years ago – they’re a Canadian group that blends traditional Scottish/Celtic music with modern rock music. Love it!
I cannot remember the artist’s name for certain (Maire Brennan??)–but she sang a version of “Be Thou My Vision” in Gaelic that I absolutely adored!
I love Tannahill Weavers but don’t have a “favorite” per se. I also love Steve McDonald. Though not a Sotsman, he discovered his heritage of Clan Donald & his music is literally a history lesson of the clearances & struggles of the Scots. If you’ve never listened to him, I highly recommend. Thank you for this opportunity to win your new book. Can’t wait to read it!!
I love Scottish Susan Boyle’s music and voice–my favorite!
I love upbeat Scottish music with lots of fiddle, although the slower, haunting melodies are beautiful too!
Emily Smith! My favorite album of hers is “Adoon Winding Nith,” where all the tracks are from the poems of Robert Burns. ๐
Oh, and Julie Fowlis as well. ๐
Celtic music fills me up like nothing else… My “newest” fav Scottish band is Old Blind Dogs, but my old favorite bands were Silly Wizard and Battlefield Band. I can’t pick a favorite song – I have too many ! I’ve even done a wee bit of Scottish dancing – my grandmother did a Highland fling back when she was in college ca 1912…
Emily Smith! My favorite of her albums would be “Adoon Winding Nith,” where the songs are all poems of Robert Burns. ๐
Oh, and Julie Fowlis as well. ๐
I enjoy Alec Beaton’s music. I first heard him at a Highland Games here in the states and bought many of his CDs.
I’m rarely unmoved by Scottish music. I prefer the lively, foot-stomping variety with fiddles and flutes, but the two by Karen Matheson and Capercailllie above were beautiful. Like opera, I don’t understand the words, but the tune evokes a response deep inside. Thanks for all the suggestions. And like someone else said, Amazing Grace (or any old hymn) on bagpipes…’nuf said.
My brother gave me Celtic Reflections on Hymns by Eden’s Bridge several years ago and I thought “My own brother doesn’t even know me at all.” But now it is my favorite and the first few measures of Be Thou My Vision triggers a tangible release of stress. (Apparently my brother knows me better than I do!)
I especially love Scotland the Brave – everytime I hear it I get chills. My English husband lived in Scotland for a while and introduced me to their soulful music. We are going to Scotland next year and I am so hoping to hear tons of ‘real’ scottish music-espeically on the bagpipes!
I love Amazing Grace on the bagpipes. Moves me every time!
I do love the fiddles and the penny whistles too though!
My favorite Scottish tune is “Always look after your pennies” because my Scottish grandfather used to sing it. Just before he reminded me never to speak of the “Scotch” – that’s a golden liquid that intoxicates. It’s the Scots, or the Scottish. I’m looking forward to your new book.
I have discovered a local band (upstate South Carolina) recently. They are called ‘Emerald Road’. I think their music is more Irish/celtic than Scottish, more of the style of Tannahill Weavers you linked above. Love to see them live! You can find their music on CD Baby online.
I have all of your scottish books and would love to add this one to my collection.
Liz, Although I have been lucky enough to visit Scottland, I don’t know the Scottich artists.. Thanks you for inrtoducing them to me. I do love the pipes, the fiddle and especially the peaceful harp. Can’t wait to read your latest book. We have met at the Women of Joy conference in Branson, MO. Don’t you remember me? ๐
Kathy Davis
kdavis1@centurytel.net
The Dark Island on the bagpipe. But I also love listening to the harp and drums.
Edens Bridge
I love ALL sorts of Scottish music. I haven’t met any that I haven’t liked yet. ๐ There is nothing more rousing that a good set of bagpipes. ๐
Liz, I am a Swede who has fallen in love with Scotland. I have never been there; but now I want to visit and experience all of the charms of Scotland ! Thank you for introducing Scottish music to me. I love it all; although in this point of life, I especially love the haunting melody of “Aignish”. I look forward to your new book!!
I love a good rousing rendition of Loch Lomond.
Oh I love ALL of it! … I would say Scotland the Brave on Pipes is a classic though …
Favorite Scottish Music-
The Gothard Sisters- you can’t go wrong with these girls ๐
I never knew there was so much Scottish music available! I’ve always thought of it in terms of movie soundtracks!
Have you noticed there is one word in the English language that only ever applies to the pipes? The ‘skirl’ of the pipes will flood me with emotion every time! As for groups, Canada’s Rankin Family top my list.
One of my favorite Scottish singers is Collin Grant-Adams from Glasgow, Scotland but lives in Glasgow, Kentucky. Collin writes alot of his music and has a passion for his homeland which shows when he sings and the stories he tells through his music. There is twinkle in his eyes as he holds you spellbound with his storytelling. I am so excited to hear tthere is a new book coming out next week. I have every book you have written and have loaned them to many of my friends.
I love anything with bagpipes and Scottish flutes….no matter WHAT they are playing it’s beautiful!
I adore the Christian celtic group The Crossing. I’ve had the opportunity to hear them in concert, and they are very passionate about God and their music. I actually use one of their songs, “There Were Roses,” in my 9th grade geography class when I teach about the religious wars going on in Ireland.
I am also a huge fan of the bagpipe group Haggis Rampant that performs annually at the Louisiana Renaissance Festival.
William Jackson and his harp music are absolutely beautiful to me.
I love Celtic Hymns like Be Thou My Vision
“Rivers and Reivers.” Looking forward to your latest book.
Highland Cathedral on bagpipes.
I always get cold chills when I hear “Amazing Grace” played on bagpipes.
It stirs my soul and brings peace.
I love almost all Scottish music, but an unconventional choice I first heard on The Thistle & shamrock is the the late Kirsty MacColl. Her album Tropical Brainstorm is addictive! It’s not your regular choice but she was Scottish ancestry & so talented! Try it, you’ll like it!
I have always loved “The Skye Boat Song” and for fun, “Donald where’s your trousers?”. Lively Scottish is great to listen to while dancing around cleaning the house. It automatically gets my toes tapping and my feet flying! It is part of my heritage and seems to be an inborn response. It just makes me happy!
I was first introduced to Liz Curtis Higgs at a women’s conference in Tucson – and enjoyed her so much. I purchased her children’s books for my grandchildren – which are wonderful – but have yet to read one of her adult books. Where to start………………Definitely want to read this Christmas book. I have never heard Scottish music either! But a trip to Scotland with my daughter and granddaughter is in my future.
Have to admit, I don’t know Scottish music. I do love Celtic Woman, but I guess they are Irish!
I’d love to win a copy of your newest book, however. I love your writing.
I usually prefer the bagpipes, but Abby Newton on the cello is wonderful!! I also throughly enjoy your pictures!!! Can’t wait to read A Wreath of Snow, hope I win!!! Thanks Mrs. Liz for the opportunity to win!!!
I love Scottish tunes with fiddles!
Like you, Scotland just calls to my very soul! We have traced our ancestry to Scotland to the Crawford clan! I can’t tell you which group is my favorite but I am learning more and more. The music just calls my name. Maybe next year I can take a trip with you to Scotland!
My favorite Celtic album is the first one I bought called Celtic Christmas IV. I could listen to those Chistmas favorites over and over. Celtic music calms me and brings a sense of peace.
Thank you for all the recommendations! Will check out Natalie Haas & Alasdair Fraser. Like the old folk tunes the best. Used to listen to Jean Redpath on PHC too, and I remember hearing the Thistle & Shamrock on Sat. mornings when I lived in Seattle. Looking forward to your new book!
My favorite Scottish style band is Tempest.
I love Amazing Grace played on the Scottish Highland Pipes. I had to learn it last year to play it at my cousins wedding, now I love it even more because I can play it myself
Absolutely love fiddle music and my daughter-in-law plays cello, so must check out “Highlander’s Farewell.”
I loved the bagpipe music we heard at the Militaty Tatoo while we were in Scotland. There was a lone bagpiper atop a castle in the distance to close the show. It was a beautiful tribute to the music of that Bonny land.
“Oh my love is like a red red rose that’s newly sprung in June – -Ooh, my love is like a melody that’s sweetly played in tune…” Robert Burns
I am hearing impaired and I cannot listen to music but I do love reading and so excited about your new book “Wreath in the snow ” coming Oct.2nd. I love ALL of your books and
the feeling I get when i read them I feel like I escape to the scotlands and am right there watchin it all. Wonderful feeling!!
Love you Liz!
I listen to Celtic music often and love plugging in artists in Pandora for a great soundtrack. The Braveheart soundtrack maybe the closest I get to anything Scottish and will be quite happy to check out your provided list. Loved the YouTube trailer for Wreath…
I love Amazing Grace on bagpipes, but I love it all!!
Most all Scottish music is either so invigorating (jigs, etc) or peaceful. I really do like Karen Matheson and Capercailllie! Just gets right to my soul! Looking forward to A Wreath of Snow!
I love all the music and the stories of the highlands, the clans and the castles! I just love the history and it is my heritage that I am learning so much about!
I Love Scottish ballads; particularly the mournful or hauntingly songs that reach into your heart and stir your spirit. I will be reading “A Wreath of Snow” as soon as it comes out in the next few days. I know it will be a wonderful read as all Liz’s books are!
I love the hauntingly beautiful sounds of mournful bagpipes and Scottish brogue as it reaches into my heart and stirs my spirit!
Wow that song “Aignish” above is such an interesting song to listen to! I must admit I don’t listen to much scottish music but I always do find it treat to hear. I can’t wait to read A Wreath of Snow. I love all your books so much and I desperately want to win your latest book!!!
Absolutely best would be the bagpipe corps at The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina. They performed in the Tattoo in 2012. My favorite was Scotland Forever.
I really love “Loch Lomond”, specifically if I can find an a capella version. I also really love a Spanish band called Salsa Celtica whom write and perform music that is part salsa and part Scottish/Irish Celtic music. It’s fantastic and really upbeat. They perform in Scotland on a fairly regular basis too. It would be fantastic to get to see them perform someday but especially in Scotland!
Karen Matheson’s voice is beautiful, I also love Susan Boyle’s music. Love all of Liz’s
Scottish novels. Rosamude Pilcher is also a Scottish favorite of mine!
Loved the music and the pictures. Can’t wait to read the next one. The standing stones fascinate me. I love all of Scotland and am anxious to return.
Ever since my bestest friend when to Scotland (she’s of Scottish descent) i have loved celtic music. From My Heart’s in the Highlands to more modern music, i love it. i don’t buy much music, so am glad you have places that are favorites. i love your books, too, Liz and would love to win
Thanks, Liz, for sharing your snaps – they are lovely. My favorite Scottish band is a modern (80s-90s) pop/rock band from Glasgow, Del Amitri. If you check them out on YouTube, recommend live versions of the ballads “Be My Downfall” and “Tell Her.”
Traditional music – I’m glad I looked at this posting, as I can explore some of these different artists who aren’t necessarily or strictly ‘bagpipes’ – thank you! I prefer military bands for bagpipe music, my favorite compilation is “Canadian Bagpipes & American Brass.” Also, I think it’s good to support your local pipe and drum corps as they perpetuate these forms through teaching and camaraderie.
I know it has been stated here….but Amazing Grace on the bagpipes is awesome! And of the music you listed…I enjoyed the bit of Karen Matheson and Capercailllie, โOh Mo Dhuthaich”. I shall be looking for it on pandora – love that place!
So very excited for your new book!!!!
I love celtic music, both Scottish and Irish. My fav’s are: Runrig, The Crossing, Eden’s Bridge, Seven Nations, and Red McWilliams – he is Americia’s Celt.
Fav tunes are: Will Ye Go Laddie, Go and almost anything that includes bagpipes.
The music is alive and gets your heart a pumpin’
Elanie
As a lass of Scottish heritage, I was thrilled when several years ago the Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra came to our small town in East Georgia to perform. The performance was wonderful and of course, one of the songs was Amazing Grace. So I guess I would say that my favorite Scottish musicians are the members of the Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra.
Here I was going to check out your website when I opened your newsletter. I definitely want to be counted in on this.
I love the fiddling of Alasdair Fraser! Years ago I got to attend a concert by him! What a great memory!
Love “Farewell to the Lasses of Mon Tays.”
My favorite Scottish music is Scotland the Brave during mass bands at highland games! I’m a Scottish dancer, and I also really like the music for the Reel of Tulloch.
I love all of the celtic music. My husband plays fiddle so I hear a lot of it. Would love to have your new book since I love everything you write.
Dear Liz, I’m thrilled with this new site and I’ll have your new book one way or another, but truly this is a loaded question for me. What group, what song, what style? Quite simply, if the music is Scottish, IIIIIII like it! Aside from singing “On the Bonnie Banks…” in my childhood and the occasional bagpipe skirl, I never had any particular Scottish music grab me until I heard “The Gael” by Dougie MacLean in the background of The Last of the Mohicans when I first saw that movie. I couldn’t understand why it touched me so deeply.
However, my all-time favorite has to be “Caledonia”. That one brings tears to my eyes and a lump to my throat, because I WANT TO GO BACK! Once is not enough, because Scotland grabbed my heart and won’t let go.
I’m sorry to go on so much. Thank you for the opportunity. God bless you, Liz!
My favorite Scotish song is “Wee Deoch an Doris”. When I was little my Grandpa taught it to us. We would run about butchering the song and having no idea what we were saying. My Grandpa moved to Canada in the early 1900’s and had long since lost his accent by the time I came along but it would come out when he sang. I had not thought of this song in years, but it came back to me with your question!!! I look forward to reading this book!!!
I love all Scottish Music. My heritage is Scots and I long to go to Scotland some day.
The jigs are my favorite, but hymns played on the bagpipes move me everytime.
Thank you so much for this post!! Loved listening to the songs, and now I have some more CDs to add to my wishlist! I love the whole spectrum of Scottish music… I love playing my harp and singing, and I love playing in the Cameron Highlanders pipe band with my hubby. Two groups that I really enjoy from here in the states that are COMPLETELY different are the Wicked Tinkers, who frequent the highland games hereabouts and are just plain fun, and Ferintosh, who I got to see play live when I was in college. If you haven’t heard of them Liz, I bet you’d enjoy their music: http://www.ferintosh.com/index.html They’re a lovely trio of fiddle, cello and harp, and they play all Scottish music, but many styles and periods. Kim Robertson is a wonderful harpist in her own right, though I first heard her play with this group.
I love the style of Karen Matheson. While her voice carries you away on a low-lying cloud, one can truly experience a culture, the lives, past and present, the essence of a land and its people that encompass Scotland. It truly touches the soul.
Well, I love all the old ballads in particular, Barbara Allen, Silkie of Sule Skerrie, the song about Mary Hamilton. Some songs, I don’t even really know the names. My great greats emigrated from Ayrshire. Looking forward to the book!
Music has been a passion of mine since childhood – both voice & instrumental, yet, I know very little about Scottish music. Your encouragement & the discovery of my Scottish ancestry (a couple of years ago) – have evoked the desire to learn more about it & add more of it to my musical collection. I love the musical instruments involved! Thanks for the info you have provided, & for another opportunity to win one of your wonderful books!
The bagpipes always touch my heart and bring tears to my eyes – sometimes happy tears and at other times sad tears. But they always touch my heart.
The one time my husband and I were in Scotland, our tour guide told the story of “The Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond.” He said even though it’s sung as a rousing drinking song, it really should be a slow ballad of lost love. “For me and my true love will ne’er meet again, on the bonnie, bonnie banks of Loch Lomond.” I’ve never been able to listen to that song the same way again.
I, too, am not very familiar with Scottish music but loved the choices on the website….Also, love the Christian song “He Looked Beyond My Fault” set to the music of Danny Boy. Music is such an important part of worship! Would love to win your new book. Thanks for the opportunity!
Loch Lomand is a beautiful tune. I have watched images from Loch Lomand play through while the song plays and it looks like a lovely spot. Would love to visit it someday. The CD I have heard of this song is very a restful instrumental version. My son also sang it in grade 4 (many years ago). It was his first and only solo(he did quite well, though!)
Look forward to reading your new book. God Bless.
Liz,
I am Scotch/Irish & Dutch/German. Years ago I realized I enjoyed Bluegrass which has it’s roots from Scotland and Ireland. I enjoy pretty much anything Celtic. I don’t think I have any favorites. Your book sounds delightful. I would love to win a copy.
My favorite band is Battlefield Band. They are a group of guys who write their own music for violin, bagpipes and guitar. Their songs are a variety of tempos and they are either instrumental or have words added in. I heard them first here in the USA in North Carolina and like to listen to them often.
I also am not so familiar with Scottish music. โThe Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomondโ was mentioned in a comment and that was a favorite of mine growing up. And of course “Amazing Grace” played on a bagpipe. We hired a piper to play that at my dad’s funeral – he was always very proud of his Scottish heritage.
I started listening to Alisdair Fraser right after I read Grace in Thine Eyes, and I haven’t stopped! Their newest one is fantastic; they (and Davina) even inspired me to begin taking fiddle lessons!
I have been in love with Scotland since I was a young girl. Although I have never been there, I have visited vicariously through books (yours included) and Scottish music. Am so glad that you wrote this blog — more resources to explore! Looking forward to more Scottish books; and who knows, perhaps someday visiting there myself:-)
I like bagpipe music.
Really enjoyed hearing Karen Matheson – thanks Liz for sharing!! Anxious to read the new book and be transported back to bonny ole Scotland for a time!
I love all Scottish music, but I have to say that my favorite Scottish singers are The Proclaimers. We have all of their CDs. I am so looking forward to reading A Wreath of Snow and so is my husband who also loves all of your books.
I recently discovered a group called the “Red Hot Chilli Pipers,” and I’ve really enjoyed them! They do covers of popular songs like “Smoke on the Water” and “We Will Rock You,” as well as some traditional pieces like “Auld Lang Syne” and “Amazing Grace.” Who knew bagpipes could be such versatile instruments?
I naturally think of bagpipes when I think of Scotland, and one of my favorite tunes played on bagpipes is “Amazing Grace”. I have only one CD of bagpipe music, “The Scots Guards-Pipes and Drums”. It contains some of their native songs, so that was a real eye-opener, with such surprising titles as, “Maggie’s Pancakes,” “The Geese in the Bog,” and “The Cockerill in the Creel.”
I love bagpipe music, especially slow airs. I must enjoy them to play them on the pipes myself!
Since you introduced me to Scotland, through your books and now with pictures you’ve posted, I think I’m falling in love with Scotland! I would love to visit there some day! It’s been fun exploring the scotish music through your blog. I enjoy listening to William Coulter on guitar. I am anxiously waiting to read your newest book “A Wreath of Snow: A Victorian Christmas Novella.” ๐
Liz, unfortunately I have never been introduced to Scottish music… singers or instrumentalists. If it is like Irish music, then I know I would like it! I will listen to the songs you posted. Now if you count “Amazing Grace” played on bagpipes at the end of the movie “Amazing Grace” as Scottish music, then that is amazing music!! All in the theater the night we went to see it stood and applauded as it was played! I do love hearing bagpipes!!
Albannach!! Heard them at the Scottish Games in Greenville SC a few years ago. And I agree with Meredith about the Citadel Bagpipe Corps….they are awesome!
In 1979 my parents made their first, and only, trip to Scotland. They returned with a recording of the haunting “Ballad of Glencoe’. I had never heard such a poignant melody! In 1986 I sang the song at my father’s 70th birthday….to tears all round!
When I think of Scottish music, I think of the grand ole’ hymns that have come out of Scotland. Two of my favorites (from childhood on) are “I Lay My Sins on Jesus” and “I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say, Come unto Me and Rest” by Horatius Bonar. (He wrote 600+ hymns.) He died in 1898, but some of his hymns are still being sung in our traditional hymnbooks!
I love all Scottish music. I really enjoy the Scottish fiddle music of Natalie MacMaster and Colin Fischer. I have always loved bagpipes; I think “Amazing Grace”,”Loch Lomond” and “Scotland the Brave” were the bagpipe first tunes I heard as a child …I still hear them as I did the first time.
Definitely the music of world championship winning Simon Fraser University pipeband! They’re Canadian by birth, but like everyone who visits this blog, their heart is all Scottish! Ne’er was Amazing Grace sae sweet!
“Amazing Grace” played in unison by multiple bands coming down Hunter Mountain in New York State during their Summer Games Festival.
I would have to say that when the pipers are playing my heart is happy. I’m working on tracing my roots back to Scotland and hope that one day I will be able to roam the highlands where my ancestors lived. Looking forward to your newest book, but am enjoying our study of Ruth.
I always get chills down my spine, when I hear Amazing Grace being played by bagpipes. I bought a Pennywhistle from Ireland, and my wee one (8ys old), learned to play the first stanza of Amazing Grace on it. I feel I’m right there in Scotland , among the the old stones in the graveyards, whenever I hear any Celtic music played. I hope to visit Scotland some day, soon. Same little on is learning to play the Flute, while her older sister, plays the Viola. They both love to listen to Celtic music, especially during The Advent and Christmas Day, and Easter. I purchased a couple of Celtic Worship CDs, and can’t stop listening.
I love the Celtic ballads, but Amazing Grace played on the bagpipes is my favorite.
Anything on the bagpipes is a favorite of mine. A Wreath of Snow would be a great surprise gift for my wife. She has read all of your books.
Having Scottish blood in my veins, I love hearing bag-pipes being played!
My first thought was Amazing Grace on the bagpipes. But I think it is auld lang syne (spelling???) that is truly Scottish born.
Looking forward to seeing you in Hershey!
Blessing…
“S-A-T-U-R-D-A-Y NIGHT!!!” I dont’ know the name of the group…ha ha
I love many types of Scottish Music, but one of my favourite albums is Eddie Reader “Sings the Songs of Robbie Burns”. She has a beautiful voice, and the lyrics are just lovely. It takes me back.
I am looking forward to the release of your latest book (not long now!), and can’t help wondering what you are working on next. Thank you – you have brought me so much joy over the years.
Oh, Lizzie, what a treasure trove youโve shared with us. Bless you, lass!
Favorite? Iโd have to say โYes!โ ๏
From the massed pipes and drums of the Edinburgh Military Tatoo, the fiddles and harp music, to the songsโit all speaks to me. Ditto all those whoโve mentioned โAmazing Graceโ on the bagpipes; brings tears. Hard to pick a fave. I like best when I can experience the variety of them one after another.
Karen Mathesonโs โAignishโ is lovely. Iโm astonished how the music can simultaneously feel grounded deep in the earth and soar airily. How do they do that? Donโt know, but LOVE it.
Nothing compares to the sound of over 40 Pipers and Drummers dressed in all of their Highland Regalia!!! We attended a festival in St Charles, Missouri in 2010 or 11. We were only a few feet away. My two young Grand Daughters had their first taste of Bag Pipes in this way! As a group, it was Magnificent! Any music with the Bag Pipes is the music for me! Strange that my name when I worked at Camp was Piper. Wonder where that came from? I am 59 years old and of late I have wondered how hard it would be to learn to play? Scotland forever! I recently finished reading (again) Malcolm & Lord of Lossie by George MacDonald. Old Duncan the Piper is a wonderful character! Och Ohne! I wonder if I have any Campbell blood in my veins. ๐
The sound of bagpipes, in any form, thrills my heart. I love the strains of “Scotland The Brave”. But there’s just something about hearing “Amazing Grace” played on the pipes that brings tears to my eyes every time.
Can’t wait for the new book!
Wreath of Snow pre ordered. I’ll start looking for it Tuesday! Nothing more beautiful than enchanting music by Alasdair Fraser and Natalie Haas. Strings! Love them.
I’ve always loved the tune about the Kerry Dancers so much I named one of my sons Kerry. My Wreath of Snow will arrive this next week. Ha been pre ordered….forever.
I love your books and your website. Thanks for introducing me to Scottish music. I love it! If I could adopt a heritage it would be Scottish or Irish!
Hello Liz. Love your books and can’t wait for the new one they transport me home for a bit I’m from the isle of Skye and so grew up with Runrig. So to me they sound like my childhood but for my babies to sleep I’d always sing “speed Bonnie boat ‘. Blessings from the expat in SC wish I was going with you in December and love all the beautiful photos too ๐
Celtic Praise by Eden’s Bridge…lovely!
I am already drawn in to you new book and can hardly wait. I love the sound of Karen Matheson, if you close your eyes, you hear the sounds, smell the smells and feel transported to a place many of us only dream of going. Thank Ye Lass for sharing.
I love the Blessing Tree… listen to it all through Scotland!!
Thank you for sharing! I want to go visit!
Hi Liz,
I love you and your stories! Please enter me. I’ve read all of your fiction books and bible studies.
I’m sure your new book is as good as the rest.
Please enter me to win it.
I love all kinds of Scottish music. It wouldn’t do justice to pick a few.
Blessings,
Anna Labno
Though they may not COMPLETELY count (although one of them is Irish), my favorite band is Celtic Thunder! LOVE their harmony and diversity!
When I saw “Sound of Music” and hearing Christopher Plummer sing “Edelweiss,” I fell in love. I also adopted “Edelweiss” to sing with my Girl Scouts years ago. It ends with “Bless my homeland forever.” I also grew up hearing and singing the song, “Auld Lang Syne.” What a beautiful Scottish song!
I Love all things scottish especially my dearest friends Maggie and John who live in
the Lowlands. I have never been to Scotland, but am saving for a trip to Edinburgh and
the Lowlands in September 2013. Liz your book “My Heart’s In The Lowlands” convinced
me after eight years that it was time to make my dream a reality. To say I am obsessed with Scotland is an understatement; its beauty, history, culture, music and above all the warmth and genuiness of its people. My favorite musical group is The Corries and my favorite
song is “Flower Of Scotland.” Liz Curtis Higgs books (I have read all the Scotland series…
Thorn In My Heart, etc. have captivated me and edged my ever closer to making my trip to
beautiful Scotland a reality….thank you Liz! I was so sad to see the series end, but I am
praying Liz inspires us all with more historical fiction novel of Scotland. In the meantime, I
look forward to what sounds like a beautiful Christmas read; thank you Liz for the gift!!!
Love your recording โAignish,โ by Karen Matheson I have a hard time deciding whether the floating clear melodies like this one or bagpipes are my favorite.
I’m so glad you’ve written the new Christmas novel. I now know what to ask for from my hubby for the holidays.
Thank you!
I have always enjoyed Alex Beaton’s music. Right now he is battling back from a severe spinal injury. He has such a haunting voice. He also enjoys singing humorous songs such as “You canna throw your granny off the bus.” I have Scottish ancestors on both my mom and dad’s side of the family. I’m always stirred by “Amazing Grace” on the bagpipes.
I’d completely forgotten “Ye cannae throw yer granny.” It’s now in my head. “Fer she’s yer mammy’s mammy.”
My grandmother used to sing it. I think she was trying to make a sarcastic point.
Most commenters are serious and I’ve picked up some good suggestions but I have to confess that I always smile at The Scottsman Song (sometimes referred to as the drunk scottsman). Silly I know, but I still remember the first time I heard it.
I don’t normally read a lot of fiction but am looking forward checking out your book.
Thank you, Liz, for all you do….using modern technology as well as fiction to share God’s love with as many as possible. I have been blessed by your books and studies and by seeing you in person, and countless others have as well. Ye ARE a blissin’!
Jean Redpath and also bagpipes have long been favorites of mine although in recent years I have been blessed by broadening my listening and it would just be too difficult to name a specific favorite!
Bless you, dear Liz.
Where do I start? I’ll be honest, I’m not a big fan of the bagpipes. I lived in Edinburgh for 4 years during college and it felt like there were bagpipers everywhere I went: Princes Street, South Bridge, High Street, etc. All there for the tourists of course.
Big Country had a great sound, and played their guitars in such a manner to sound almost like bagpipes. Check out Fields of Fire for an example.
Capercaillie is always good. My favourite is Coisich a Ruin, but don’t ask me to sing it. My Gaelic is atrocious.
There’s Runrig, Eddie Reader, and the Proclaimers.
I also remember a song called Johnny Where’s Yer Troosers that my Scottish grandmother would sing. All about a guy in his kilt. Has to be at least 50 years old.
I don’t know if it’s still around, but the Ceilidh House in the old toon in Edinburgh used to be a great place for traditional music.
I always said if I’d not married my American husband I would have stayed in Edinburgh for as long as possible after graduation. I loved it there.
Love the fiddlers, but “Amazing Grace” on the bagpipes….can’t beat it!
Hi Liz: Anything to do with Scotland I admire and love. My great grandparents were from Scotland and I have always longed to visit there. It is still on my “bucket list” to do even though I am 75 years old I still long to visit there. I also want to thank you for writing your books of the Bible and for your love of Scotland. I cannot pick a favorite as every song, bagpipe or gospel that I hear I want to hear more. So they are all my favorites. In Christian love Jan
Makes me want to pack & go – an awesome land our Father has created.
I am new to Scottish music, looking forward to checking out Liz’s suggestions. No favorite yet!
I love the ethereal beauty of the harps, bagpipes and penny whisltes, and often wish I could play any of them but my most treasured collections are the soulful gaelic voices crooning the ancient words and songs that speak to the spirit. Even though I don’t understand the words I feel the thought and emotion and I lose myself in the moment. I love this site, bless you Liz! <3
I absolutely loved the music of Abby Newton. Her music is beautiful and has that epic movie feel about it. I am a huge fan of violins, cellos, etc., so it’s right up my alley. I will go out and purchase her cd after hearing it. Always love something new to listen to.
On another note, I am a huge fan of your books. I love, love, love the way you write and are able to take me on the journey through your characters. I don’t think I have ever cried so hard reading a book as I did with the Thorn in My Heart series. I can’t wait to read your new book.
I had the pleasure of attending one of your speaking engagements in Omaha, NE, which is also where I picked up one of my first books written by you.
One day I would love to make a trip to Scotland. My dad’s family was from Scotland, but I know nothing of his family heritage. It would be an amazing experience.
Blessings.
I never really thought about Scottish music before. We’ve had a great time listening to your selections all morning…I like the fast paced ones, that make me feel like dancing!
I have always enjoyed Alex Beaton who frequently sang during the Stone Mountain Games in Atlanta. Sadly, he had a stroke and I don’t think he can perform any longer. I
Alex Beaton is coming out with a new CD- he is doing better. I love the “Glengarry Bohys” Lots of fun as well s some great ballads. If you want loud Celtic Rock- try Albannach from Glasgow.
I am so excited with your new Scottish website. I can’t wait to browse through it. I am also very excited to read your new book. I have all the books in your Scottish series and love every one of them. I mostly love instrumental Scottish music. I love the bagpipes. They stir my soul as no other instrument really does. To think that the pipes always played before the Scots went into battle is so stirring. I also like Lorena McKennitt. She plays an interesting blend of Celtic/Middle Eastern style of music. My favorite song by her is “My Bonnie Swan”. Thanks again for your beautiful storytelling. You are my favorite author and I am blessed that I got to meet you twice at a women’s ministry speaking engagement. Keep on writing!
Anything my Scottish friend, Sandy, cares to sing becomes my favorite Scottish tune along with with the Lone Piper at the Edinbrugh Tattoo, of course!
You might want to check out Phil Keaggy and the Celtic influences on his “Beyond Nature” and “220” albums. I love your writings. I recently finished “The Girl’s Still Got It’ in time for our Sunday School quarter on the book of Ruth. Please keep writing.
Hi Liz,
I love bagpipes and fiddle, but don’t know specific Scottish artists, so thanks for your tips…I’m going to check them out. Have you heard of Mairead Nesbitt? She is the fiddler from Celtic Woman. Her song, The Butterfly, is something I can listen to over and over… reminds me of “Grace in Thine Eyes” every time! Can’t wait to read your new book!
“Scotland the Brave” always stirs my heart! As a child, I remember singing “Loch Lomond” over and over – not sure if my mother taught me or I learned at school. Amazing how the Scottish heritage does seem to be genetic – I’ve loved celtic music even before I knew I had some Scottish blood in my veins! I remember learning “The Campbells are Coming” in my piano lesson book as a child, but somehow always associated it with canned soup!
As a descendant of a MacLaren from Rothesay, Isle of Bute (great-grandpa), I am always proud to claim my heritage from Scotland. When my paternal grandmother (nee MacLaren) passed away in the 60’s in the US, my family was living near London, England. My father arranged to have real Scottish heather shipped for her funeral. Although we could not afford to attend the funeral, just knowing that some of the flowers from the land of her roots were there helped us feel that we honored the heritage that she loved.
I love Celtic versions of old hymns the best, particularly “Be Thou My Vision.” And I can’t wait to be transported to bonny Scotland again in your next book.
I love a lot of different styles, but Scotland the Brave always gives me a thrill!
I had no idea of the wide variety of Scottish music, and I look forward to exploring the sources you have listed. I eagerly anticipate each new book you publish, Liz. This winter I am planning to share your Scottish series with a new neighbor who grew up in Scotland and hasn’t come to know our Lord yet. Thank you for sharing your wonderful gifts of teaching, writing, and photography with your sisters in Christ. You truly are a blessing to all of us.
Love to hear the bagpipes. Also, love the songs with Karen Matheson. When I was a little girl to my teenage years, every year at our local park in Pennsylvania, a group of men wearing their kilts, etc., and playing bagpipes would perform. I was thrilled clear down to my bones!
My favorite Scottish singer is Jim Malcolm and my favorite group is the Old Blind Dogs, but I love many. Can’t possibly pick a favorite song – there are too many!
Any music sung by Jean Redpath is glorious. Garrison Keiller is a gem and we listen to him all the time.
One of my favorite CDs is Lifescape’s “Scottish Moors.” I listen to it often when I am reading, writing, or studying!
The best Scottish music can be found in Scotland, of course! ๐ I love the bagpipes, but I especially love the song Amazing Grace played on the pipes.
I really enjoy the harp music from Scotland and wish I had been at Edinburg’s International Harp Festival. I also like the bagpipes. I love your books and had the pleasure to hear you speak once. God bless!
Thanks so much for listing so many artists I have not heard of so I can check them out and add to my small collection of Celtic music. I fell in love with Celtic music when my husband and I ended up at a Maidens IV outdoor concert! Wow! Celtic music come to life! Much dancing and clapping at this concert! It is hard to drive and dance at the same time while listening to their cd in the car! ๐
A friend sent this link to me. A beautiful web page with beautiful music. I love haunting Gaelic melodies and I look forward to hearing more.
I really haven’t listened to much Scottish music. The college I graduated from used to have a bagpiper come every year for graduation and play “Amazing Grace.” I enjoyed the songs you posted above. I would very much like to have a copy of your book.
My favorite is the Scottish Bagpipes & pipe bands. My heart cannot help but be stirred by their music every time. My stepfather was in a bagpipe band years ago-awesome!
Liz creates my favorite Scottish music as she tells her stories. She transports me to Scotland with every word. Even though I’ve read every book more than once, reading them again is like listening to your favorite song over and over. Scotland is on my bucket list due to Liz’s exquisite storytelling. Can’t wait to read the newest one. Love ya, Liz!!
Love the instrumentals. Liz you have a way to research for your books which take us to Scotland through your words and phrases… in the pages of each book you publish.
Thank you for sharing your travels and your gift to put pen to paper. God bless you!
I love “Amazing Grace” with bagpipes. Guess I have a thing for bagpipe music. Keep up the wonderful books. I loved your early Scottish series and have them all either on disc or hard copy. Yet my favorite book is your book “Bookends”. It brought back so many memories of my time in Littitz and Moravian customs. Of course my favorite is the truly sunrise – sunrise service and the Christmas Candlelight with Morning Star. It makes me feel like I am right there on that first Christmas and Easter Sunday. PS I love your rap on “Ruth”! You go girl!
For the playing of your own Scottish Music Hamish MacCunn’s Highland Memories Op. 30 Suite for four hands on the piano is fun to play; takes you right into the beautiful countryside of Scotland.
I love Celtic music, but not anything particularly Scottish! ๐ Now, though, I will have to give all these artists a listen. Thanks for sharing!
My favorite song really depends on my mood at the time! My grandmother and my father taught me Loch Lomond when I was little so that one is special to me, I am a descendant of Robert Burns and I loved the last song you had on this blog by Karen Mattheson too.
I have enjoyed your books so much and I can’t wait for this newest one to come out! I’m currently in a Bible study of your book on Ruth, which I’m really enjoying! We are planning on coming to see you in January in Montgomery, Alabama and my dream would be to take one of the trips to Scotland with you. Thank you so much for all the wonderful stories! You make learning so much fun!
Amazing grace
I’ve read and loved your fascinating comments regarding Scottish music, and can’t wait to track down the many suggestions you’ve shared. I hope other followers of MyScottishHeart.com will do the same. And, as promised, I’ve chosen ten winners at random and will be sending copies of my brand-new Victorian Christmas novella set in Scotland–A Wreath of Snow–to Julie L, Janet A, Jeanne Y, Barb E, Neva L, Kari R, Natalie M, Mary C, Karen R, and Joy C. Blessings and happy reading to each one mentioned, and heartfelt thanks to ALL of you for supporting my writing, this season and every season. Haste ye back!
Peatbog Faeries !!
I simply adore two songs! I’m not sure if they are Scottish but they are with the bagpipes and leave me on the verge of tears.
1) Theme from Braveheart (Mel Gibson) (def scots!)
2) Hustle & Bustle from The Englishman who went Up the Hill and came down the mountain.
For great fiddle in both historic traditional style and contemporary Scottish “folk” listen to Pete Clark from Perthshire. NPR’s Thistle and Shamrock is also a great resource to listen and learn. NPR streams Thistle Radio for a broad exposure to Celtic music.
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