18 March 2025
Donald Grant shares on his musical beginnings, Scottish Ensemble in the ’90s, the top tracks he can’t stop playing, and why he’s looking forward to Thuit an Oidhche Oirnn.
If you could have a superpower, what would it be and why?
To stop time. Imagine all you could get done – and the fun you could have along the way!
What got you interested in music?
In the very beginning, it was undoubtedly my Dad. He taught us Gaelic songs around the table from when we were wee. The area I grew up in was full of music, and many of my friends sang or played so I was lucky to hear huge amounts of live music throughout my childhood. I always loved making up tunes on the piano and playing at home, but it was definitely when I began playing with other people that the flame was properly lit.
I always loved making up tunes on the piano and playing at home, but it was definitely when I began playing with other people that the flame was properly lit.
What is the first album you ever bought?
Capercaillie’s Sidewaulk– I still love it. Karen Matheson’s voice is utter magic, and the band’s approach to Gaelic song and traditional music totally captured my imagination.
Name your favourite Scottish Ensemble performance and why?
I was lucky enough to see Follow the Moonstone in the early ’90s. Hearing traditional Shetland fiddle music alongside classical strings was incredibly inspiring and something I hadn’t heard before. It was a game changer.
I saw lots of the Ensemble’s performances throughout the 90’s and was always captured by their committed, open minded and energetic approach to making music and programming.
Where do you like to visit in Scotland?
I love getting into the mountains or the sea, ideally on one of the islands. Ideally with a dog. I’m planning to cycle the Outer Hebrides Cycle Way this summer.
In total contrast I do also love frequenting Glasgow’s coffee houses – big shout out to 1841 for keeping me fuelled when I’m home. Good coffee definitely helps when there is music to be written!
What is your top live music experience and why?
I have two.
With my quartet, The Elias, we performed and recorded all the Beethoven quartets at Wigmore Hall in London and then performed them again in Suntory in Tokyo. It was pretty epic.
And Celtic Connections 2025 with my band, Scottish Ensemble, and guest vocalists – a bringing together of musicians and people I admire so greatly. I won’t ever forget it.
Celtic Connections 2025
What issues do you think the classical music world currently faces?
That free music tuition isn’t accessible to all. Music should not be just for people of wealth and privilege.
Name three tracks you can’t stop playing?
Tell us about Thuit an Oidhche Oirnn and what you are most looking forward to in the performance?
It’s a collection of new tunes I’ve written for fiddle, band, and strings, themed around winter and night in the Highlands of Scotland. Much of the inspiration and the stories behind the music come from Glen Roy, where I grew up.
The music is deeply rooted in traditional style but melded with other musical influences. The band are all incredible musicians and improvisers, and they’ve become a huge part of the music’s evolution.
Playing it together with Scottish Ensemble is a dream come true.
I’m most looking forward to hearing them all play every night! There’s also a wee moment where myself and Tom (piano) go freestyle – he makes everything sound magic.
Thuit an Oidhche Oirnn means The Night Overtook Us in Scottish Gaelic. Book your ticket here.
