The Living Tradition

31/03/2026

31/03/2026

This is a small part of an interview with Dr Donaldson where he talks about the Concept of Tradition. In the full interview he is talking mainly about Pibroch, so that is the context for this section. I find it particularly interesting because I feel that every generation tends to ignore the current 'tradition bearers' thinking that real tradition was something that only happened in the past. In my opinion newly written songs and music can be 'real' folk songs - but that doesn't mean that every newly written is or will be 'traditional' at some point in the future. There needs to be some connection or context. This small interview section is worth a listen, then perhaps we can discuss it further.

29/03/2026

Friends came from far wide for Adam McNaughtan's Memorial Event in Glasgow (28 March 2026). It was an enjoyable, informative and uplifting occasion. For those who were unable to attend - or would like to listen again - the audio of the whole presentation (without the sausage rolls and sandwiches) is here for you.

It lasts almost one and a half hours - so settle down with a drink .. or two. PLEASE SHARE

By Pete Heywood Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share through email Print a- a+ Published 2 hours ago Last updated 1 hour ago Adam McNaughtan Memorial Event Sun, 03/29/2026 - 17:06 Posted in: Archive Recording 0 comments Adam McNaughtan Memorial Event - Glasgow, March 28, 2026 Friends from far an...

09/02/2026

This is an audio recording of Nic Jones @ Kilmarnock Folk Club from 1978 - part of 'The Living Tradition Archive'. Enjoy!

https://www.livingtradition.co.uk/audio/nicjones_ktfc

19/01/2026

https://www.livingtradition.co.uk/videos/normanbuchantribute

For anyone with an interest in Scottish folk music - something to enjoy. Hopefully it will evoke some good memories.

By mariolensa Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share through email Print a- a+ Published 12 hours ago Last updated 36 min ago Come All Ye - A Tribute to Norman Buchan Tue, 01/13/2026 - 00:00 Posted in: Videos 0 comments A tribute Norma Buchan - the man behind the little red book, 101 Scottish Song...

04/01/2026

I'm still thinking about Bob Blair, around the first anniversary of his passing. I looked out a recording of a 'Scots song workshop' which Bob and Heather Heywood did in the Dutch Barn at the Oldsongs Festival (I think in 2002) There are a few songs here - starting with Heather singing Lord Lovat. In her introduction Heather credits Lizzie Higgins as being one of her principal sources of inspiration. The workshop/concert lasted three quarters of an hour, so this one is best enjoyed with a relaxed drink - tea perhaps, if you have over indulged over the festive season. P.S. I am currently working on adding some archive material to The Living Tradition website. It's going to be a big task! P.P.S. I have still to look out a photo of Heather and Bob at Oldsongs, this one of Heather is from quite a bit earlier.

By Pete Heywood Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share through email Print a- a+ Published 55 min ago Last updated 3 min ago Heather Heywood & Bob Blair @ Oldsongs Festival Sat, 01/03/2026 - 22:59 Posted in: Archive Recording 0 comments Scots Song Workshop by Heather Heywood and Bob Blair, from Th...

30/12/2025

https://www.livingtradition.co.uk/audio/GreatNorthRoadshow

A reminder - that there are a few archive recordings available to listen or watch direct from our website. HERE IS A LINK TO ONE OF THEM - This is a remarkable live recording of four musicians who for a short time toured as 'The Great North Road Show'. Tom McConville, Pauline Cato, Maggie Boyle and Clive Carroll. Tom tells us that it was Clive's first series of gigs after leaving school.

By Pete Heywood Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share through email Print a- a+ Published 5 years ago Last updated 5 years ago The Great North Roadshow Wed, 06/03/2020 - 12:36 Posted in: Archive Recording 0 comments This is a remarkable live recording of four musicians who for a short time toured...

04/11/2025

Most of you will have heard by now, but I thought I should update after my recent post about Archie Fisher. On 1st November, Cilla Fisher posted on Facebook that her brother Archie had died. Our immediate emotions are generally of sadness, but hopefully soon the focus will turn to Archie's immense contribution folk music over many years. For me, and I'm sure for many others, Archie was a constant presence during our experience of the folk revival. He was there from the early days, and still performing until recently - as majestic as ever. He inspired people in so many ways, both through his own music and songs, but also as a caring, insighful, and encouraging broadcaster and quiet commentator. He acknowledged a few others as masters of their music, whilst modest of his own position. He was, and remains, one of the greats, and we owe him a huge debt. He was a carrier of, and a contributer to the tradition. He often signed off on Travelling Folk with the words "Keep safe". Farewell Archie, you will live on in our memories and through your songs. To all who knew him, and especially his family and friends, keep safe.

03/10/2024

https://shop.livingtradition.co.uk/index.php?cPath=48&sort=1a&page=1

This is a bit of a test. Hopefully it will take you to The Tradition Bearers section of our shop, where there are several CDs which should interest people with an interest in traditional songs.

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