Pre-Gathering Concert: Charlie McKerron and Friends

Capercaillie and Session A9 fiddle player, Charlie Mckerron has been playing with Marc Clement and Tim Edey for over 20 years, and after playing with Ross Ainslie at various sessions Charlie asked him to join the group around 10 years ago.Charlie explains, the combination of the 2 guitar styles of Edey and Clement are electric and can only inspire and make you want to play!The musicians bring a world music backdrop to many of Mckerrons compositions, which he likes to feature in his tours. As well as their guitars you can expect to hear the powerful voice of Marc Clement and Tim Edeys brilliance on the melodeon. Ross Ainslies introduction to the outfit has been a great development. His piping and whistle skills plus his love of contemporary, traditionally based composition is right up my street says Charlie.This combo likes to continually push and challenge each other. There is a musicial soulfulness, the fury of the up tempo madness and incredible improvisation making every night a different experience. I love the improvisation thrown in, there is freedom within the music, comments Ross Ainslie.Charlie, an award-winning composer, is at the moment working on his solo CD, which features some of the music from this line-up, as well as contributions from other Celtic and World musicians. These intimate gigs are the perfect way to introduce some of our new music, says Charlie.You can expect a night of amazing music and entertainment from these award-winning musicians. Their virtuosity and the sheer joy of performing together will always shine.A joyous evening of virtuoso musicianship ... Edinburgh Music Review
... played with emphatic vigour and precision The Scotsman