GAELIC speaker and Dingwall native Innes White lives and breathes traditional Scottish music. Despite his youth (he's 23), White is one of the country’s most sought-after instrumentalists, having played guitar, piano and mandolin alongside the likes of Karen Matheson and John McCusker. In his career so far, White has played the Royal Albert Hall and in 2016 was nominated for Instrumentalist of the Year at the Scots Trad Music awards. White’s performance at Glasgow’s Royal Concert Hall as part of the New Voices programme will see him play his own compositions with a full band.
What sparked your interest in traditional music?
White: My grandfather was a Gaelic choir conductor and my aunties are all Gaelic singers. Mum is also a lovely singer and Dad loves all kinds of music. I was also fortunate to live in Ross-shire where an organisation called Fèis Rois has a strong presence. They do amazing work nationally that gets hundreds of kids involved in traditional music. This is an exciting time for traditional music with the form moving into new directions which keep it relevant.
Who or what influences you in terms of music?
White: There are so many things. My Dad gave me a pretty broad range of music to listen to when I was younger. I’m interested in a lot of Americana musicians at the moment. I think my friends and colleagues have a huge influence on me currently. I’m always learning on the job.
Of all the Celtic Connections gigs taking place throughout the coming month, what can audiences get from your performance that they won't elsewhere?
White: A headache?
Having already accomplished so much, how would you like your career to progress in the next few years?
White: I enjoy learning new music as I get bored pretty quickly. I’m lucky to get to play with all sorts of people so I’m always kept on my toes. So I suppose just more of the same. I’d also like to build on the momentum I’ve built up whilst writing my New Voices commission and keep writing and performing my own music. The New Voices platform is such an amazing opportunity, it’s not often you get to hand pick an eight-piece band to perform your own music. I’m relishing the opportunity.
Innes White will perform at Glasgow Royal Concert Hall’s Strathclyde Suite on January 21 at 1pm. Tickets cost £12 plus booking fee and can be purchased from www.celticconnections.com, from the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall box office or via phone on 0141 353 8000. The Sunday Herald is an official media partner of Celtic Connections.
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