The Gow Collection of Scottish Dance Music
The Gow Collection of Scottish Dance Music

Author: Neil Gow

Publisher: Oak Publications

Published: 2007-01-26

Total Pages: 253

ISBN-13: 1783234911

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An essential addition to the dance tune library and an important milestone in traditional music publishing. This volume of almost 600 strathspeys, jigs and reels has been compiled from the original collections published between 1784 and 1822 by Niel and Nathaniel Gow, the father and son violinist/composers. Niel Gow revolutionized Scottish music by inventing a new style of bowing, known as the ‘up-driven’ technique, that accented the unique strathspey rhythm. Besides the invaluable contributions of the Gows, other important Scottish composers such as William Marshall and Donald Dow are featured, as well as some of the more important tunes in the traditional Scottish repertoire. This unique collection also features detailed notes on the life and times of Niel and Nathaniel Gow, an analysis of the ‘up-driven’ bow technique, the origination of the strathspey as well as a complete discography and bibliography. This book will prove an invaluable addition to your repertoire and home library.

Airs and Dances
Airs and Dances

Author: Mara Shea

Publisher: Mel Bay Publications

Published: 2011-04-15

Total Pages: 119

ISBN-13: 161065966X

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Compiled by Mara Shea, a Scottish dance fiddler with a classical violin background, this book will appeal to the classically-trained violinist or musician, intermediate to advanced, who would like to learn something about the type of music unique to Scotland-the strathspey. It will also appeal to Scottish dance musicians who would like to know a little about the history of some of the tunes and their composers. Each of the strathspeys is recorded by Mara Shea and accessible online for listening. Chords are provided by Julie Gorka. Sketches and illustrations are by Lisa McDonald.