A Moray music teacher that takes classes in a converted barn has been nominated for a national award.
Mhairi Marwick teaches children to play the fiddle at her family’s farm near Mosstodloch.
Every week nearly 30 youngsters passionate about traditional music raise the roof with foot-stomping tunes during the Arc Fiddlers classes.
Now the 25-year-old teacher is in the running to be named tutor of the year at the Scottish Traditional Music Awards.
Yesterday Miss Marwick said she was “shocked and surprised” by the announcement to reward her work for keeping traditional songs alive.
She said: “I think it’s very important to keep it going – but it’s growing now. It’s great to see so many young people interested in it.
“I work a lot in trying to get live music into rural areas, including Fochabers, where it is hugely popular.
“I’m absolutely passionate about traditional music and I love inspiring others to take it up. All I want to do is encourage people.”
Former Milne’s High School pupil Miss Marwick started the classes two years ago and now has 26 children aged 12 and 13 come to the sessions.
Also in the running to win at the award ceremony is Cullen musician Jack Smedley, who has been nominated for folk band of the year as part of Rura.
He said: “Each member has grown up with Scottish music around them so it’s always seemed a natural progression to continue performing.”
Elgin’s Drouthy Cobbler has been nominated in the venue category. The winners of the Traditional Music Awards will be announced on December 3 at a ceremony at the Caird Hall in Dundee.
