The Pipes20th Anniversary ofChristmas The Clan Currie Society proudly presents

The 20th Annual Production of TheThe PipesPipes ofof Christmas Christmas Sponsored by The Grand Summit Hotel Balvenie Single Malt Whisky Aberlour Single Malt Whisky Celgene Corporation

Saturday, December 15, 2018 Madison Avenue Presbyterian Church, New York City

Sunday, December 16, 2018 Central Presbyterian Church Summit, NJ

There will be one fifteen-minute intermission.

Step into Christmas with us. Please turn off all cell phones, pagers and other electronic devices. The taking of photographs and recording equipment is strictly prohibited.

The 2018 edition of the Pipes of Christmas is lovingly dedicated to the memory of

Deanne Dunning Alfred “Fred” Bisset Marta McErlain Abigail Finch Janelle Currie Victoria Collins Pacaud Campbell Port Rev. Billy Graham

The producers gratefully acknowledge the generous support of

Central Presbyterian Church Bull N Bear Brewery Mike and Joan Gambro Madison Avenue Presbyterian Church Summit High School Robert and Colleen Kelly HomeTowne Television Karen and Steve Bowman Stephen McErlain Message from the Lord Lyon King of Arms

wish to send all in the USA and especially in living Scotland is manifest the New York and New Jersey areas hearty in this Concert. The Igreetings from Scotland. I am delighted to Concert supports this work be able to congratulate the Pipes of Christmas with young, talented Concert on their 20th Anniversary. This concert is people and also supports renowned for its excellent music, its links with the writing of new Scotland and its celebration of the joys of music – to bring the living Christmas. It is truly a Christmas family occasion to Scotland to us today. Well which the audiences come year on year. I have done to all concerned. unfortunately never been in attendance at the Concert but have listened regularly to the CD I hope to be able this year gifted to me by Robert (Bob) Currie of the Clan to watch the Concert on Currie Society. The event is a glimpse into the digital television so will be “Glory of God” – with excellent musicians, very much with you. Please use the special inspiring poetry and a celebration of the apparition anniversary to look back with pride on the work of the coming of the child of Bethlehem. and achievements of the Concert but also forward to the next 20 years of community and service to Bob Currie is an inspiring leader and I enjoyed his others through the joy of music. I congratulate all company in Edinburgh earlier in 2018. He and his those concerned and wish you all every blessing of team at the Clan Currie are to be thanked for the the Christmas season. In a motto I often quote provision of such a celebration which is, in the “Upwards and Onwards.” words of the Society’s motto, “Inspire to Victory.” The Clan and the Concert make the life of Yours sincerely Scotland alive in today’s modern society with the range of scholarships and community outreach Dr Joseph J Morrow, CBE, QC, LLD work that is carried out. This is what it means to Lord Lyon King of Arms belong to the worldwide living Scotland and this Greetings from Brigadier David Allfrey

am very proud and hugely privileged to have been invited by the indefatigable Robert ICurrie to be the Honorary Chair for the 20th Anniversary Pipes of Christmas concerts. Robert came by to our headquarters in the Old Town of Edinburgh and we had a famous time catching up on Scottish news from ‘across the pond’. I am only sad that I cannot attend the concerts in person. I will be the other side of the world! You will get all of this at the Pipes of Christmas and I know the music, the atmosphere, the people - and a good deal more besides. the many good causes that benefit from the concerts and so many other activities across the year Each year, I find myself standing on the side-lines - will make it a distinct and memorable time for of the Tattoo marvelling at the emotional power everyone. Please pass generously my best wishes of the Great Highland Bagpipe. This unique to those who have come to listen, to those instrument, played first by Patrick Og performing and those further afield who are friends MacCrimmon (and the other hereditary pipers to but cannot attend. the MacLeods of Dunvegan) in the mid-16th Century, has no volume control (around 85 decibels As many will know, we welcomed the Clans close by!), has only 9 notes, is tuned to 441Hz and Families to the Royal Edinburgh Military Concert B Flat and relies on natural materials, Tattoo a year ago and we were rewarded with so lungpower and nimble fingers and…yet it has the many wonderful stories and a host of fabulous power to make men and women cry! It is a magical family connections, many going back some sound and carries with it, sometimes on the wind, centuries. Each night, across August, the clansmen the history and character of a remarkable and and women gathered in the Great Hall of singular culture. You are in for some treats of this, Edinburgh Castle and then patrolled down through and from Wales and Ireland as well, across the the Castle precincts behind their chiefs, banners three concerts over two days in New York and and pipers to the Esplanade to be greeted to a roar New Jersey! from our audiences. It was an extraordinary start to the Show each evening. The whole exercise took I hope that you enjoy the magic of the music and many months to bring together, in conversation might feel inspired to come across to Scotland to with each Clan and Family but it was so sample a bit of our legendary hospitality and worthwhile when we saw how much pleasure it perhaps come to the Tattoo in August. Or, you brought to so many people and the extraordinary might fancy an adventure and join us in Sydney reach of Scottish culture, heritage and genealogy next October as we play for a few special days to across the years and the miles. huge audiences in Sydney. In both places, you will find friendship and perhaps a few kinsfolk as well. Scottish communities and those of our Celtic cousins, wherever they are, have always called on Warmest best wishes for a wonderful series of their music, their customs and their stories to concerts. bring everyone together. It is always a party on some scale and the noise of pipes and drums is David Allfrey never far from the centre of things - a melody and Producer and Chief Executive a beat for all occasions! And…fine friendships. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo +

celebrate the holidays with family, friends and summit house

Join us for Christmas Dinner and New Year’s Festivities

395 Springfield Avenue • Summit 908.273.6000 • www.summithousenj.com While the concerts have always included traditional When The Rockefeller Foundation reached the and much loved family favorites, the producers grand old age of 100 in 2013, its trustees were have introduced new artists and new tunes to the convinced that the occasion was one which should, world, producing in the process an impressive “inspire deep reflection.” Indeed its long-serving Welcome to the 20th Annual number of world premiere compositions. president Judith Rodin said, the anniversary was an opportunity not to be wasted. “The pride and unity The Pipes of Christmas But in a world where identities are often blurred it inspires makes it an ideal time to ask people to Pipes of Christmas by conflict and population shift there are less think together about why their work matters and tangible but equally important reasons that people how it should move forward.” DECEMBER 2018 love and draw inspiration from the concerts. For those with a Celtic heritage the Pipes of Christmas concerts are a reminder of their identity – who they are as a person.

Essentially this good work challenges the notion that clans and clan societies are an anachronism with no real-world relevance in the 21st century. he annual Pipes of From Muireadhach Christmas concerts Albanach, who crossed from Serendipity The idea of reflection and T produced by the Ireland to Scotland in 1213 The origins of the Pipes of Christmas have their roots inspiration, so important for Clan Currie Society return and began the first of the in one of these delightfully serendipitous moments Judith Rodin, is an apt one for a 20th season in New Currie line. when Robert Currie President of the Society and for the Clan Currie Society Jersey and New York. now Commander of the Name and Arms of Currie and one which weaves In 1411, it was Lachlann Mo`r ‘discovered’ one of Pipe Major Kevin Blandford’s its way through both the For the last two decades the MacMhuirich who inspired enchanting CDs entitled The Pipes of Christmas. It Pipes of Christmas story mission of the Pipes of the soldiers of the Lord of the was this music which provided the inspiration for and the wider Learned Christmas has been to entertain Isles before battle and others the Clan Currie Society’s annual concerts. Kindred of Currie. and inspire, to showcase brilliant musicians, present who followed – their story is our story. inspiring poetry from the British Isles and to celebrate the coming of Christ during Advent. Inspire to Victory MacMhuirich wrote the Harlaw Brosnachadh or After two decades, the Pipes of Christmas annual ‘Incitement to Battle’. This epic poem resulted in nspire deep reflection concert is of course still about all of the above but the Clan Currie Society’s motto there is much more too. With the support of our “Inspire to Victory.” sponsors and the money raised from the concerts we are able to maintain the Society’s scholarship You Clann of Conn, remember this: and outreach programs while continuing to support Strength from the eye of the storm. the Scottish arts community. Be at them, be animals, Be alphas, be Argus-eyed, Crossing borders Be belters, be brandishers, It’s important work which transcends the confines Be bonny, be batterers, of concert venues, crossing borders to touch the Be cool heads, be caterans, lives of real people who need a helping hand. Be clashers, be conquerors…

In this special year we wanted to turn the clock His memorial stone in Makars’ Court in back, look at our roots and consider the questions, Edinburgh’s Old Town is a potent reminder of the how did we get to where we are today – who role that MacMhuirich (Currie) bards played in helped us, who influenced us, who and what Scotland’s early history. inspired us? Reached new audiences around the world In many ways 20 years is but a blink of an eye Since its inception in 1999, this vibrant creative when we consider the common Celtic ground of festival of the soul has evolved and grown the musicians and bards who went before us. substantially and thanks to the wonders of digital webcasting have reached new and enthusiastic audiences around the world.

The Company Act One

Susan Porterfield Currie Highland Cathedral Gillebride MacMillan Joy to the World Calum Pasqua Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence Ben Power Susie Petrov Angels We Have Heard on High Solid Brass A Rìgh nan Rìghrean Doug Haislip, Director (King of Kings) Jennifer Port Carolina Christmas – World Premiere Steve Gibb Buachaillean an Du`thaich Shear Sarah Hewitt-Roth (There Were Shepherds in an Eastern Land) William Peek I Wonder As I Wander James Robinson Amazing Grace Mark Verdino Andrew Weir And Act Two The Kevin Ray Blandford Memorial Pipe Band Scott Larson, Pipe Major God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman Pipe Band Medley Hymn to the Saviour Musical Directors Jeff Rickard O Little Town of Bethlehem Steve Gibb Sìth, Sìth, Sìth (Still, Still, Still) Stage Manager Pam McCaddin Oidhche Sha`mhach (Silent Night) Executive Producer Robert Currie O Come All Ye Faithful

*Program subject to change.

When it came to the pipes, Blandford was a It’s fitting that this notice appears on the painstaking professional. website of the National Piping Centre in Glasgow, While Kevin forged his musical reputation as an Scotland the organization which administers The outstanding musician and composer he was also a Pipe Major Kevin Ray Blandford Memorial The Inspiration talented choral singer and as a teacher, an open sea Scholarship for Bagpipe. diver and dive instructor. It was terrible losing Kevin Blandford, but the Following his untimely death in 2003, the San fact that his memorial pipe band comes out every Bernardino County Sun wrote movingly about the year to perform keeps the spirit that he began influence he had on the lives of others. “If we must all those years ago. It all began with a CD….. put a name on it, a gentle passion might fit. For music, for the ocean and for seeing the worth in In 2018, let’s raise a glass to the memory of Pipe other people.” Major Kevin Ray Blandford and say welcome back to the Pipes of Christmas’ Musical Director, Jeff Rickard. Welcome Back Jeff Rickard Pipe Major Kevin Ray Blandford In this 20th season, Jeff Rickard is by now a ‘well- Kevin Ray Blandford’s love affair with the bagpipe kent’ face to regulars at the Pipes of Christmas began in his early teens. It was his enthusiasm for concerts. Celtic music which turned a young man with a raw talent into one of America’s most prominent and Jeff brings a world of experience to Pipes accomplished performers and composers. of Christmas Like his good friend Kevin Ray Blandford he The original RP Blandford & Son Pipe Band, It was his outstanding work as a performer and stepped out on the musical trail at a young age. He formed by him in 1986 was named after the family arranger, recognized by Bob Currie, which provided describes himself as a, “cradle Episcopalian” so it business based in Redlands, California. the foundation for the Pipes of Christmas. comes as no surprise that he was organist for Ascension Parish Day School at the tender age of 12. He performed at the Clan Currie Society’s Kirking Brilliant composer for the bagpipe of the Tartan service from 1995-1998, won a During their tenure working together, Blandford “I was born playing Bach on a keyboard.” number of West Coast championship titles and an and Currie created several compositions including a Church music, Bach in particular, was his passion impressive 2nd place in the 2000 Pipe Band World lament on the occasion of the death of Diana, and piano and organ lessons came early in life. The Championship in Glasgow, Scotland. Princess of Wales. The tribute to Elizabeth, the bagpipe, thanks to Kevin Blandford, came later. This talented musician is currently Kapellmeister Queen Mother on her passing in 2002, at age 101 Lavish in the praise for his friend, Jeff said he, at Trinity Episcopal Church, Community Chorus of was more celebratory in tone, commemorating “taught me how to immerse myself in the music of Redlands, CA – St Dunstan’s Choir. He also works a life well-lived. the bagpipe.” with the wider Redlands community as musical director for a range of summer musical theatre But his best-remembered Pipes of Christmas Now the respected Musical Director for Pipes of productions. composition came as he watched the terrible events Christmas, he was, as they say, in at the beginning. of September 11, 2001 unfold in New York, As an organist he worked with Kevin Ray Award of Distinction Pennsylvania and Washington. It was one of the Blandford on the original Pipes of Christmas CD, In 2017, he was presented with an Award of darkest days in American history. His tune Lament the music which inspired Bob Currie to establish Distinction by the University of Redlands which for the Lost debuted in that year’s Pipes of Christmas the event enjoyed today. “honors community members who have shown concert and was performed again in 2011, to exemplary commitment to the public good through commemorate the 10th anniversary of 9/11. Jeff brings a wealth of musical experience and volunteerism, community involvement or community involvement to the Pipes of Christmas. outstanding achievement in their field.” Jeff Rickard, long-serving Pipes of Christmas Among his many roles he was Director of Choral Musical Director often worked closely with Kevin. Activities to the University of Redlands. His choral “You are one of a kind” said one devotee of his They collaborated, for example, on Amazing Grace: program – in particular the annual Christmas work, another said, “Thank you for continuing to A Collection of Hymns for Bagpipe and Organ. presentation of the Feast of Lights – gained an share such extraordinary joy…” As he joins the international reputation. In essence a juxtaposition Pipes of Christmas company in 2018, there are few of traditional and contemporary choral works and who would argue with that. innovative arrangements.

The Learned Kindred of Currie Hosts of the Pipes of Christmas

hen Dr. Robert (Bob) Currie was Land, he returned to Ireland before eventually appointed by Dr. Joseph Morrow QC, settling in Finlaggan on the Island of Islay c. 1224- Wthe Lord Lyon King of Arms as 1228 as poet to the Lord of the Isles. Commander of the Name and Arms of Currie (anciently MacMhuirich) in April 2018, it was The role of the bard was exceptionally important another step – a milestone – on a family journey, in Gaeldom. During ceremonial occasions at which began in Ireland in the 13th century. Finlaggan, the MacMhuirichs would be honored by being seated before Maclean, MacLeod, Who were the MacMhuirichs? MacNeill, MacKinnon, MacQuarrie and the other The MacMhuirichs were Island chiefs. Theirs was an renowned Gaelic poets and oral society that relied on the Scotland’s leading hereditary bards and senachies – the bardic dynasty. For centuries storytellers – to preserve and they were among the literati spread the reputation of the Gaelic world. According of the clan. to authoritative sources the family can trace their roots to By the end of the 15th century Ireland and Muireadhach Ó the power of the Lordship had Dálaigh (Muiredach O’Daly). faded and the MacMhuirichs O’ Daly was a member of were established as bards to a distinguished Irish bardic the MacDonald of Clanranald dynasty; a family which on South Uist. Today a stretches back to Conn of the memorial cairn, erected by the Hundred Battles, the Society, at Baile nam Bàrd legendary High-King of marks the ancient Ireland who reputedly died MacMhuirich home. in 157 AD. The MacMhurich Learned Kindred The writer Martin Martin During the second decade of were the preeminent bards of Gaelic (Màrtainn MacGillemhàrtainn) the 13th century O’Daly fled Scotland. – a Skye man – toured the to Scotland, perhaps following Western Isles around 1695 and a period of exile, after killing the servant of observed. “The Orators by the force of their Domhnall ÓDomhnaill, King of Tír Conaill. Eloquence had a powerful ascendant over the greatest men in their time; for if any Orator did but Shocked that this ‘trifling’ incident should cause ask the Habit, Arms, Horse, or any other thing such a stir, Muiredach wrote: belonging to the greatest Man in these Islands, it was readily granted them.” Trifling was our quarrel with the man, A clown to be abusing me, Were the MacMhuirichs all bards? And me to kill the churl, Although the MacMhuirichs are best remembered Dear God, is this the cause for enmity? as hereditary bards and musicians there is some evidence of the family having other professions too. In Scotland, O’Daly became the bard to Earl Alwyn II of the Lennox until his death in 1217. Following Thomas Owen Clancy, Celtic Culture: Aberdeen his involvement in the Fifth Crusade to the Holy breviary-Celtics says, “The MacMhuirich family of hereditary bards and other learned professionals, Diana Gabaldon author of Outlander novels importance of the work carried out by the maintained a prominent role in Gaelic learning…” Diana Gabaldon is the author of the hugely popular Currie Society. Those other ‘learned professions’ he describes as, series of Outlander books which have sparked not “occasional lawyers and physicians.” It seems just an interest in the storyline and characters but a 2017 likely that many MacMhuirichs were poets while more general resurgence in the interest in Scottish In August, members of the worldwide Currie also pursuing another profession. During the history. She wrote “Back in the day, if you were a family were invited to parade at the Royal 1530s for example John MacMhuirich, listed as Celtic chieftain bound for war, the first thing on Edinburgh Military Tattoo as one of the honored “Dean of Knoydart,” had a poem included in the your military checklist was get a good bard. families and clans to celebrate the Scottish remarkable treasure that is the Book of the Bards didn’t just sing for their suppers at great Diaspora as part of the Splash of Tartan event. Dean of Lismore. houses, or entertain at weddings and feasts. A bard’s primary job was to rouse the warriors and In the days before the family took to the Esplanade The Song of Cathal give them heart. He encouraged them with stories of Edinburgh Castle, they held a Family Convention In 1636, Cathal MacMhuirich wrote the poem, The of great victories of the past, riled them by in Glasgow. It was a legal meeting overseen by Song of Cathal for the MacDonald chiefs. Written to recounting the atrocities of their enemies, and Liam Devlin, Unicorn Pursuivant as the appointed mark the deaths of four MacDonald lords, it is at its promised them immortality.” Presiding Officer, to select a Commander to act as heart a lament over the passing of all the ancient Head of Family in the anticipation of a later clan ways – including that race of noble poets who A process of Anglicization selection of a Chief of the Name and Arms of were the Gaelic bards: By the 17th Century MacMhuirich became Currie from the court of Lord Lyon. MacCurrie. Then as part of a continuing process of The heroes of the Race of Conn are dead, Anglicization, which accelerated after the Battle While this brief note from 2017 brings the short how bitter to our hearts is the grief for them! of Culloden in 1746, Currie and other variants of resume full circle, in this the 20th season of the We shall not live long after them, the name become more common. Pipes of Christmas, on which so much of the Perilous we think it to be bereaved of the Society’s good work depends, the story of the brotherhood. The Clan Currie Society Learned Kindred of Currie runs on. The Clan Currie Society was originally formed in Because the men of Clanranald have gone from us, Glasgow, Scotland in 1959 by William McMurdo Scholarships we poets cannot pursue our studies. Currie who sought unsuccessfully to find an The Clan Currie Society, working in partnership It is time for the chief bard to depart after them, unbroken line of descent from O’Daly to himself. with leading educational institutions is proud to now that presents to poets will be abolished. His research was documented in his book With award a number of annual scholarships to young Sword and Harp, a work probably best regarded as people in the US, Canada and Scotland. a loose interpretation of fact and historical tradition rather than an example of scholarly research. Before The importance of that continued family research The current scholarships are: he died in 1992, the leadership of the Society is reflected in the awarding of the Duais Clann passed to Bob Currie. MhicMhuirich (Clan Currie Bursary) awarded to ➢ The Alex Currie Memorial Scholarship for students who undertake research on the literature, Bagpipe – administered by the Gaelic College By the time that Currie took the Society reins poetry and history of MacMhuirich/Currie. of Nova Scotia. there was growing interest in MacMhuirich history, ➢ The Col. William McMurdo Currie Memorial with renowned Gaelic scholars Professors Derick Society’s raison d’ être Scholarship for Clàrsach – administered by the Thomson, Hugh Cheape and others championing Essentially the Society’s raison d’ être is to promote Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. the research. and preserve Scottish heritage and culture. It does ➢ The Pipe Major Kevin Ray Blandford Memorial that in a number of ways – holding special events, Scholarship for Bagpipe – administered by the perhaps to mark a particular anniversary and National Piping Centre of Glasgow. through a program of scholarships awarded to ➢ The Private Bill Millin Memorial Scholarship young people in the US, Canada and Scotland. The for Bagpipe – administered by Lyon College of Society’s community outreach program is another Batesville, AR. essential element of their work. ➢ The Duais Clann MhicMhuirich (Currie Red Book of Clanranald Research Prize) – administered annually by It was Niall Mo`r MacMhuirich, the last of the hereditary senachies In the years since the Society was formed there Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, Scotland’s Gaelic College of Clanranald, who compiled the Red Book (Leabhar Dearg) of Clanranald at have been many stand-out moments deserving of a on Skye. the beginning of the 18th century. William Gillies of Edinburgh University special mention. There were two in 2017, both now ➢ The Currie Family Scholarship for Music described the manuscript as one of, “unique interest and importance to Gaelic significant milestone in themselves – but extra Composition – administered by Edinburgh literature and to Clan Donald.” Gillies noted that the manuscript was ‘procured’ special because they signify a recognition by a Napier University. by James ‘Ossian’ Macpherson when he travelled the Highlands in 1760. number of distinguished authorities including the ➢ The Carol Hassert Memorial Scholarship for Court of the Lord Lyon, the Standing Council of the Fine Arts – administered by the Fine Arts Scottish Chiefs and other Scottish clans of the Faculty of Summit High School. Outreach work The Society is proud to support a number of local and national charitable organizations.

Among them are:

➢ The American Red Cross ➢ The Community FoodBank of New Jersey ➢ Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center ➢ The Soldiers Fund ➢ The Saint Andrew’s Society of the State of New York ➢ Poppy Scotland ➢ The Glasgow School of Art ➢ The Junior League of New York ➢ The St. George’s Society of New York

Annual Programs and Special Events In addition, the Society has supported a range of other events, which demonstrate the relevance Tartan Day on Ellis Island has been held of a family network in modern times. For instance, annually since 2002. in response to Hurricanes Sandy and Irma, the Society produced two televised fundraising concerts to benefit the American Red Cross. Tartan Day on Ellis Island The Society is especially proud of their Tartan Day Equally significant is the Society’s outreach “by on Ellis Island celebration. Since its inception the numbers.” The Pipes of Christmas in 2002, it has developed reaches a worldwide audience through into one of the most their global webcast every Christmas important Scottish Eve and Day; their Ellis Island program heritage events in the reach exceeds 50 thousand visitors United States. annually; the Royal National Mod is broadcast across Scotland via BBC Alba; Why Ellis Island? and the games featuring a Currie For 62 years, between Family Culture Tent exceed 15,000 1892 and 1954, in attendees. Ellis Island was the gateway to the To be relevant, cultural outreach must United States for 12 genuinely “reach” people. The Curries million people seeking never forget this simple rule. a new life. Although many Scots arrived in Among their additional programs are: the 17th century, it’s thought that about ➢ Title Sponsorship of the US National half a million later came Scottish Harp Championship through Ellis Island. ➢ Sponsorship of the annual Young It’s estimated that 40% Adult Literature Prize at the Royal National of Americans today can trace at least one ancestor Mod who entered the country through this entry point. ➢ Design of the Ellis Island Tartan ➢ Donation of Celtic harps to Quinnipiac Tartan Day on Ellis Island is a fitting celebration University to offer harp classes that recognizes the contribution of Scots and ➢ Sponsoring/producing Traditional Music CDs Scottish-Americans to the development of the from promising new talent United States and brings it to an international ➢ Currie Family Culture Tents at Highland tourist destination where its programs can enjoy Games and Gatherings maximum reach. Dad,

Thanks for twenty years of making Christmas merry.

Cheers to you and to our extended pipes family!

Your biggest fans, Hilary and Claire The Rev. Dr. Susan Currie also took her first steps to unfold with Currie seeking on stage in 1999. She recalls that first occasion – of suitable Manhattan venues to uncertainty, of new challenges, of camaraderie, of joy. bring the Christmas concert.

Twenty Years On Going into that first year we expected to shape a With the untimely passing of great concert event. What caught us by surprise is Blandford in 2003, plans to The Pipes of Christmas - A Showcase of Celtic Culture how this is so much more than a great concert. It’s expand the concert were an experience, one that brings us into the mystery temporarily put on hold, but and beauty of Christmas and lets us linger there Currie vowed to keep their together for a few hours before releasing us with joy vision alive and make the in our hearts and love in our soul. crossing over the Hudson n the final month of 1999, in a world preparing Solid Brass, he has fond memories of the first show River to New York City. for the new millennium, the Pipes of – the power of Kevin Blandford’s playing – the IChristmas took its first tentative steps. Like packed and responsive house – the thunderous The first ‘Big Apple’ many journeys it began with hope, anticipation and applause. performance more than a little apprehension. In 2006 – bolder and more “This is something special” confident –the Pipes of Christmas “If music be the food of arrived on Madison Avenue, where the first New love, play on” “It was my introduction to the Learned Kindred of York concert burst into life – breathtaking, powerful It was Shakespeare who Currie and Celtic celebrations. I was touched by the and full of emotion – the audience and the critics famously said, “If music be sincerity of the performers as we put on the show. I loved it. the food of love, play on.” could feel that the audience felt that as well.” For 20 years the Pipes of “New Yorkers didn’t wait until the end of that first Christmas has done just Of subsequent years Chap said, “The spirit of the concert to cast their vote of approval. Our that – played on with show and the long-standing excellence washes over performers were treated to a standing ovation at the love in front of packed me fresh every year. I see lots of the same faces in end of the First Act.” houses, with time- the audience year after year. Our friends and family The Rev. Dr. Susan Currie has served as Narrator since the very first concert in 1999. honored classics and members come to hear us play and they are always Supporting the Scottish Arts Community world premiere thrilled by the show. It’s a thrill for me, up on stage through Scholarships and other programs compositions. to be part of such a production. People I speak to Beautiful music, evocative readings Subsequent concerts followed the warm familiar are enthused to be there, and can’t wait for it to As narrator, Susan, “is the glue that holds the show path, which audiences loved. They were packed Kevin Blandford’s begin. – neither can I.” together.” Being a writer is all about finding the with traditional favorites like, In the Bleak original repertoire right words and that’s just what Susan does – words Midwinter, Amazing Grace, Highland Cathedral and was vastly extended, Delivered with honesty which emphasize the depth of Celtic culture and some of the most beautiful Gaelic carols. It’s always with a number of new instruments Asked what the event meant to him he said, “The work in harmony with the music – words to tell a been important to showcase the Gaelic language being included – fiddle, uilleann pipes, guitar, cello Pipes of Christmas represents the spirit of story and carry the show from beginning to end. and the concerts are the perfect platform. There and the clàrsach (Scottish harp) – thought to be Christmas for my family and me. I think of it like were also increasing creations of newly Scotland’s oldest national instrument. an ornament on the tree of my Christmas spirit.” She talks warmly of terrific Readers from the ‘auld commissioned music, written to commemorate a country’ and, as the years have passed, new artists particular event or honor the life of a person who Act one opened with the coming onboard adding to the richness of the has left their mark on the world. ever-popular Joy to the World musical offering. Although they mostly see each In the company on that very special day other only once a year Susan feels the cast as a “One small step for man, were Chap Ostrander, playing drums, whole have become a family. one giant leap for mankind” Willie Kelly on Uilleann Pipes, Pipe One man who has most definitely left his mark on Major Kevin Blandford on Highland Asked if she could sum up the Pipes of Christmas this world and others was astronaut Neil Armstrong. Pipes, fiddler Lisa Gutkin and the Rev. in one quotation, she said that it would be the Who can forget that historic moment in 1969 when David Currie as one of the readers. closing words of the show – “Joy be with you all.” he stepped from the lunar module onto the surface of the moon. Following his death in August 2012, As performer and narrator Over the next five years the company grew and the appropriately entitled, Sea of Tranquility was Chap Ostrander and Susan Currie were performance runs were extended. written in tribute by young Scottish composer there from the beginning James Ross of Wick, Scotland and performed to Chap Ostrander, in this 20th season, is still Critical Acclaim great acclaim. It was a particularly poignant a member of the Pipes of Christmas Going from success to success, Blandford and occasion when the piece was played in front of company. Now joined on stage by his wife Currie began to wonder if sophisticated New Neil’s daughter at the New York concert. Adrienne and a quintet from the group Chap Ostrander Yorkers would take to the concert. The plans began In the same year to mark the Diamond Jubilee of combination of lyrical bagpipes, lush orchestration Over the first 20 years the producers have HM Queen Elizabeth II, Balmoral Snow, and contemporary synthesis… shown a strong consistency in programming composed by Steve Gibb was debuted. in what has been a well-received The 2016 season opened with a powerful message juxtaposition of traditional music and The 15th season brought that comfortable to the audience from the producers.“We hope to poetry and the rich exciting new material it familiarity and more specially commissioned tunes. stir your blood, bring out the romantic in you and champions. It’s this successful recipe which Like the previous year there was a ‘royal’ thread just perhaps bring a tear to your eye.” has succeeded in attracting established running through the program thanks to Lullaby performers and composers while nurturing for a Prince composed by Steve Gibbs to A world premiere rendition of The Old Bard of the next generation who will undoubtedly commemorate the birth of HRH Prince George. Stilligarry by Eyler Coates tugged at the heart strings take the Pipes of Christmas confidently as it took the audience to the ancient MacMhuirich forward to the next 20 years. The 16th annual concert held in 2014 was in many home on South Uist, Scotland and may well have ways a particularly memorable one with a well- brought a few tears to more than a few eyes. Exhibitions and Documentary Films deserved tribute to the great Cape Breton fiddler “For the seventh time, the Clan Currie Two of the Society’s Buddy MacMaster. As if to emphasize its influence in the development Society, producers of the Pipes of many Scholarship of new music, the Clan Currie Society and the Christmas and HomeTowne Television recipients. It was also the perfect occasion, on the hundredth Pipes of Christmas presented a second world (HTTV) have demonstrated their anniversary, to remember the “Christmas Truce of premiere. The John Muir Suite composed by Steve broadcasting prominence by being named 1914” where British, French and German soldiers Gibb of Inverness, Scotland in the centennial year as recipients of the prestigious left their trenches and came together across No of the US National Parks. Gibb said, “I wanted the Telly Award for television production excellence.” Man’s Land to observe Christmas. piece to be a journey, in a sense mirroring Muir’s Supporting the Scottish Arts own journey from his childhood in Scotland The Society is an outstanding producer of Community through Scholarships. Having debuted in New Jersey, it was entirely through his emigration to America and his eventual exhibitions and documentary films. They The Clan Currie Society – Pipes of Christmas proper for the Pipes of Christmas, on the 350th role of early environmentalist and champion of have included The Life and Legacy of John Muir, Scholarship program is about music, poetry and anniversary of the founding of their state, to mark the wilderness.” an exhibition held during Tartan Day on history but most of all it’s about people. Those in the occasion with a new composition – The Garden Ellis Island. whose name the scholarships are offered – State March from celebrated US piper Duncan Bell. “After nearly two decades, The Pipes of Christmas prominent figures who have influenced the lives of The performance was introduced by US concert series creates traditions of its own.” The centennial year of the US National Parks in those immersed in the Scottish arts community – Congressman Leonard Lance. — NJArts.com 2016, was the ideal time for them to pay and those who receive them. tribute to a number of ‘visionary As if that wasn’t enough, Gillebride MacMillan, And so to 2017 leaders’. Among the illustrious The scholarships honor Alex Currie, a better known to Outlander fans as Gwyllyn the “The Pipes of Christmas shows the real affection group they chose to honor was legendary Cape Breton piper, Pipe Major Bard, joined the company for his first Pipes of which Scots Americans have for Scottish culture John Muir who arrived in Kevin Ray Blandford, the inspiration Christmas performance. and tradition...” America from Scotland as a for the Pipes of Christmas and Col. — Joni Smith, Scottish Government Counsellor young man aged 11 to William McMurdo Currie, the founder Braveheart stars reuniting for North America become one of the country’s of the original Clan Currie Society in to pay tribute to best-known naturalists and 1959. Also Carol Hassert, a native-born Hollywood composer The sounds of Joy to the World filled the hall, conservationists. Scotswoman and champion of young James Horner as it had done on that first occasion in 1999. people in the arts, and Private Bill Millin, The Pipes of Christmas Commissioned to commemorate the 1879 Vision John Muir and President a Scottish piper who played on Normandy audience enjoyed a tribute, of the Virgin Mary, witnessed by John Curry at Theodore Roosevelt on the beach during the D-Day invasions. arranged by Musical Director Knock, Ireland, a world premiere of Beautiful US National Park’s Centennial Jeff Rickard, to James Things – from celebrated Irish harpist, Cormac commemorative coin. Horner who died in 2015. De Barra followed. Taking center stage were Over one million people enjoyed our exhibition on “I shall never forget hearing the skirl of James Robinson, Andrew A second new piece – The Curries are Coming – was the Life and Legacy of John Muir displayed in Bill Millin’s pipes. It is hard to describe Weir, and Mhairi Calvey, written by Stuart Currie of Dumfries, Scotland and partnership with the National Park Service. the impact it had. It gave us a great lift from the cast of Braveheart. first played on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile as the and increased our determination. As well Currie Bardic Family was honoured at the Royal Other examples were Tartan: Scotland’s as the pride we felt, it reminded us of Honorary Chairman that Military Tattoo. O Come All Ye Faithfull rounded Enduring Icon, Loyalty and Rebellion: The Jacobites home and why we were there fighting for year was Outlander composer off the concert. and America. The Society received one of its our lives and those of our loved ones.” Bear McCreary, a great many awards for video production excellence — Tom Duncan admirer of Horner’s music, For the audience, it was the quintessential awards for The Crafter’s Song a documentary film Bear McCreary describing his Braveheart Christmas experience and for a short time, all was narrated by Academy Award™ winning-actor, score as a, “unique right with the world. Cliff Robertson. Other scholarships The Pipes of Christmas casts its net to other ➢ The Clan Currie Scholarship for Music sections of the Scottish arts community Composition, for students of traditional music. As Title Sponsors of the US National Scottish Harp ➢ Duais Clann MhicMhuirich (Clan Currie Championship of America, the Society has Bursary), awarded to students of Sabhal Mòr supported this prestigious event for a number Ostaig, Scotland’s Gaelic College on the Isle of of years. Skye which undertakes research on MacMhuirich history and their contribution to In 2011, the US National Scottish Harp Champion literature and poetry was Kelly Stewart. Today Kelly is a respected teacher and performer with a number of solo While much has been written of this great bardic albums under her belt. dynasty, it’s now recognized that much more remains to be revealed and interpreted through Rachel Clemente is another talented musician modern scholarship…The Clan Currie Society to have received support. Rachel, a graduate of the takes great pride in supporting this research. Royal Conservatoire of Scotland has recently released her debut EP, A Quiet Uniqueness recorded Awarding the scholarships allows us to briefly dip in Glasgow with the support from the Society. into the lives of those who have won them.

We remember Margaret Stewart who completed an MSc in Material Culture and Gàidhealach at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig and was awarded Clan Currie Research Prize. Also a Mod gold medal winner, Margaret has since returned to the college to teach.

Elliot Smith, an award-winning bagpiper at Lyon College in Arkansas who received the first Bill Millin Scholarship awarded by the Clan Currie Society.

Jessica Burton, winner of The Col. William McMurdo Currie Memorial Scholarship for the Clàrsach, a talented musician who has since won other awards and played for some distinguished names, including former British Prime Minister David Cameron and HRH Prince Charles. Gillebride MacMillan

Gillebride MacMillan one of our Pipes of Christmas ‘family’ has, supported by the Learned Kindred of Currie, recently released his new album, Freumhan Falaichte/Hidden Roots. One of the tracks Baile nam Bàrd was inspired by a poem by Raibert MacMhuirich. The accompanying booklet has the lyrics, translation and a foreword by Diana Gabaldon.

The performers, composers and teachers mentioned here are of course just the tip of the iceberg, there are many more that the Pipes of Christmas has helped along their way

We take pride in their success. Harper Jessica Burton On Sale Now The Best of the Pipes of Christmas Fifteen tracks of beloved music recorded live at the Clan Currie Society's "Pipes of Christmas" concerts from 1999 to 2012.

CD includes: Lament for the Lost - Highland Cathedral (the haunting pipe solo written on September 11, 2001). Amazing Grace Silent Night Only $19.00 and (+ $6.00 shipping/handling) (International orders - $10.00 shipping/handling) ! Order Form Send me _____ copies of The Best of the Pipes of Christmas!

Name:______Payment can be made via PayPal or by sending this form along with payment to: Address 1:______

Address 2:______The Clan Currie Society P.O. Box 541 City:______State:______Zip:______Summit, NJ 07902-0541 Email:______

“A Christmas Prayer” by Robert Louis Stevenson

Loving Father, Help us remember the birth of Jesus, that we may share in the song of the angels, the gladness of the shepherds, and worship of the wise men.

Close the door of hate and open the door of love all over the world.

Let kindness come with every gift and good desires with every greeting.

Deliver us from evil by the blessing which Christ brings, and teach us to be merry with clear hearts.

May the Christmas morning make us happy to be thy children, and Christmas evening bring us to our beds with grateful thoughts, forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus' sake.

Amen.

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