Simon Chadwick - Clarsach Na Banrighe - The Queen's Harp

(August 2008) 22 tracks (63 mins): Vir Perfecte * Vir Iste * Kyrie Virginitatus Amator * Salve Splendor * Pater Columba * Ex Te Lux Oritur, O Dulcis Scotia * Nobilis Humilis * Burns March * Battle Of Hara Law * Rory Dall's Port * Da Mihi Manum * Cumh Easpuic Earra-ghaoidheal * Air By Fingal * McLoud's Salute * Lude's Supper * Port Lennox * Port Gordon * Oran Air Cath Sliabh An t-Siorraimh * Port Athol * The Floweres Of The Forrest.

Medieval and 18th century Scottish harp music played on a newly commissioned replica of the famous medieval Scottish Queen Mary harp.

The metal strings give a very different sound from the gut-strung harp on these often stately pieces.

The medieval section of the CD includes 13th century church repertory from St Andrews Cathedral (where the CD was recorded), as well as from Inchcolm island in the Firth of Forth.

The second half of the CD presents, for the first time, the complete repertory of John Robertson of Lude, Perthshire, who owned and played the Queen Mary harp in the early 18th century. As well as airs, ports and a family salute, it includes a Gaelic song on the battle of Sherrifmuir, which has been newly matched to its original tune and is sung by guest Mairead Murnion from Co Down, Ireland.