Described as a "piping virtuoso" by 'The Scotsman' in its review of his 2009 album 'Outlands', acclaimed musician Fred Morrison will take to the stage in Portree this Wednesday as he embarks on a tour of Scotland ahead of the release of his new album next year.
From the great Highland bagpipes to the Irish uileann pipes, Morrison has cultivated a reputation as an accomplished instrumentalist over the past three decades since the release of his debut solo album — 'Broken Chanter' — in 1993.
Although born and raised near Glasgow, Morrison attributes his father's native home of South Uist as the "bedrock" of his "uniquely adventurous" playing style. As well as his three solo albums to date, the nine-times winner of the Macrimmon Trophy at the Inter-Celtic Festival of Lorient has also played as part of Capercaillie and Clan Alba.
Next year sees the release of your fourth solo album, what can fans expect from the new material?
What have your experiences of playing on Skye been like, and are you looking forward to playing with the Skye Pipe Band? How does the touring experience compare now to when you first started out?
Given your father's connection, how would you describe the experience of playing in South Uist? Is there more pressure or expectation? How does the touring experience compare now to when you first started out?
How does the touring experience compare now to when you first started out?
FM: "Over the years, it's been a learning process, particularly in the organisation and the planning side of things — publicity and being completely prepared — which helps everything to go smoothly. On the artistic side, you refine your craft with each performance and you really get to know what works and suits the audience as well as yourself. When both elements are in place, the result is that the venues are always well attended and that really allows you to look forward to the tour.
Although the tradition of piping still appears popular across Scotland, the costs of competing often mean many bands and individuals are reliant on support from their local community. Was this the case when you were first starting out, and what advice would you give the young pipers of today?
If someone was thinking of going to see you play for the first time, what should they expect and how would you describe the experience at your gigs?