Music plays an important part of life in Coigach. It is a social interaction where age and ability are largely irrelevant. Ceilidhs, dances and sessions feature regularly in the summer months. If you are visiting the area bring your instrument or just yourself.
There is a strong piping tradition in Coigach so look out for the “Achiltibuie Highlanders” at local events.
Read on to find out about some of the local talent or check our Events page.
Mairearad Green is an accomplished musician, composer and artist from Achnahaird. She has travelled widely around the UK and abroad with several well known bands. When she is not on the road she is usually at home working on new recording projects. https://www.mairearadgreen.co.uk/
Joseph Peach grew up in Altandhu and is one of the youngsters in the black and white photo at the top of this page. A box player, pianist and composer he often plays for dancing in the Coigach hall when at home.
Ali “Beag” Macleod has been a huge influence on many young musicians growing up in Coigach and older players returning to music later in life. A self taught player who couldn’t read music he grew up in Achnahaird and was a master of gaelic airs and songs he heard as a youngster. He made a number of recordings and was always ready for a tune and a craic with any musician who knocked on his door.
The School of Scottish Studies recorded a number of local singers and musicians in 1955 including Kenny John Macleod of Achduart. Kenny John’s father was the local blacksmith. More information and links to the sound files are available here.
Mairearad Green and Ali “Beag” Macleod are both featured on the Video Gallery page.
Check out our Local events