Piobaireachd/Pipe Music

Deeply rooted in the classical sound of the Great Highland bagpipe, the piper and multi-instrumentalist Fraser Fifield’s latest release is a vivid and haunting listen. The 11 tracks on offer explore, as Fifield states, ‘that ancient, slightly mysterious music associated with the Scottish bagpipe.’ There is no tartan kitsch here, but rather a sublime and affectionate journey through the very rich pipe tradition. It was lockdown that provided Fifield with the time to explore ancient tunes, and these are at the heart of Piobaireachd. The moody ‘Breizh/A Flame of Wrath’, for example, has its source in the 17th century. Self-penned tunes feature too, including the sax and kaval accompanied ‘Being in Time’, an affectionate tribute to Fifield’s late friend, the pipe maker Nigel Richard.

While Scottish tradition is at the core of the album, elements of other cultures are explored too. ‘Improvisation on Whistle’, for example, reflects Fifield’s experiences playing with Indian masters including Zakir Hussain. The entire album is a beautifully considered, and masterfully performed listen. There is a quiet seriousness here, which reflects the substance of the instrument’s focus. Piobaireachd/Pipe Music is a pure and evocative examination of tradition, but one that also manages to stimulate and inspire.