BBC recordings of the late Donald M MacLeod released for charity

A CD has just been released of the BBC recordings of the late Donald M MacLeod, of Islay - with all the proceeds from sales being shared between Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance and RNLI Islay Lifeboat Station.

In 2007 Donald M MacLeod released a CD entitled ‘An t-Eilean Mòr’ in co-operation with the BBC, with all the proceedings going to the Islay and Jura Sick Childrens’ Fund very appropriately as his grandson was undergoing treatment at Yorkhill Hospital, from which he made a full recovery, and his dear wife Katie trained and nursed at Yorkhill.

Early in 2018 Donald passed away just a few months after Katie.  His daughter Fiona pursued the possibility of making a further CD using the many other recordings in the possession of the BBC – her passion and dedication resulted in the production of  ‘Gad Chuimhneachadh’.  The CD is very appropriately named Gad Chuimhneachadh, Remembering You, remembering Donald’s wonderful voice.

Donald, who lived all his life in Portnahaven, was a National Mòd gold medallist Traditional Music All of Fame Inductee. 

Helen MacGregor, SCAA’s Regional Fundraising Manager said: “It feels a fitting tribute that money raised through the sale of Donald’s CD will helps SCAA to keep on saving lives across the country, particularly in remote and rural areas."

The album includes many of the most popular songs from Donald’s extensive repertoire such as Fàgail Lios Mòr, Sine Bhàn and Gruagach Òg an Fhuilt Bhàin as well as very local Rhinns songs like Gleann Cnoc Mòr and the amusing Òran na Tosgaid. Most of the songs are accompanied by such illustrious musicians as Peggy O’ Keefe and Bobby Macleod.

Lovers of fine Gaelic songs should not miss the chance to obtain a copy of this fine album – you will not regret it!

The CD, priced £12 plus p&p, can be ordered via SCAA by calling 0300 123 1111 or emailing k.farmer@scaa.org.uk.