Rhapsody on Rhapsody

We’ve had several warmly positive responses to the Argyll Rhapsody, part of Argyll’s Homecoming 2009 events and organised through Argyll & Bute’s Education Department.

Because of the spontaneity of these responses and what that says about the widespread appreciation of the event, here’s one from the inbox.

‘I attended this multi-media show at Oban Corran Halls last night and would warmly commend it to folk in the Helensburgh area. (Editor: Tonight, 29th October, 7.30pm at Hermitage Academy.)

‘On for only two nights – in Oban last night and Helensburgh tonight, the entertainment comprises a host of talented young musicians from all the High Schools in Argyll & Bute, brought together under the aegis of Donald Shaw of Capercaillie Band fame and  John Grant, Musical Director of Campbeltown Brass.

‘There are Fiddlers and Brass players, Pipers and Drummers and the first half is a hugely entertaining melange of Celtic music and song accompanied by stunning projected images from young photographers across Argyll showing off our county in all its glorious variety.

‘The second half was a riot of colour and “off the wall” fashion as  youngsters from fashion and design showed off their  work on the catwalk accompanied by pipers, fiddlers, the brass ensemble and singers led by Maeve MacKinnon.

‘Pipers giving their encouragement and expertise to the youngsters included Stuart Liddell of Inveraray and Angus MacColl from Oban while Donald Shaw’s contribution was major.

‘This was a huge celebration of the young talent that we have in abundance in Argyll & Bute.

‘Individual and group work at individual schools has to be brought together and co-ordinated to present a concert that must pose massive logistical problems that were overcome by an efficient backroom team.

‘The only regret is that for  academical and financial considerations this splendid entertainment cannot have a much wider audience’.

And so say all of us.