Can you help Arran’s Music Society?

During the blizzard week when the roads were closed and e-mail was down, the Music Society had no means of contacting a group from Germany called the Kammerphilharmonie Europa to tell them what had happened. These young musicians were touring Britain and were booked to play at Whiting Bay on the snowed-in Sunday afternoon, but nobody knew where they were or whether they would turn up. They did arrive, and as everyone who was there will never forget, they played magnificently – but to an audience of only 35 people.

The resulting financial loss was daunting. It will not cripple the Music Society, which is backed by Enterprise Music Scotland, so a great programme of concerts for the coming season will go ahead – but it does mean the Society may not be able to put on any concerts next summer. In the next few days, it is hosting the magical Gaelic singer, dancer and player, Joy Dunlop, with her trio, then the gloriously retro jazz group, the Rose Room, headed by Jimmy Moon, who began his career as a guitar maker and player on Arran. Next summer, however, is doubtful. In June, McFall’s Chamber would like to include Arran in their Scottish tour. As one of the most innovative and exciting groups working in Scotland, this would be superb, specially as they are bringing fantastic musicians from Brazil. But if it is to happen, the commitment has to be now.

If you can spare a small donation to help ensure that these great concerts keep on happening, countless people of Arran would benefit. The Music Society treasurer, Sandra Bentley, can be found at Inspirations, the Brodick gift shop. Cheques made out to the Isle of Arran Music Society would be welcomed with heartfelt thanks.