Gaelic writer and broadcaster Catriona Murray has added a new date to her book tour, launching the first ever single volume compiling the works of poet Murdo MacFarlane. An evening of music and lively readings from the bilingual anthology, Doras Gun Chlàimhean, will take place at the University of Edinburgh on 9 December. Event details The event will take place 19:30 on Friday 9 December in The Project Room, 50 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JU. The evening will be in both Gaelic and English. All are welcome to attend. Please RSVP by emailing celtic@ed.ac.uk. Murdo MacFarlane, known as the Melbost Bard, was born in 1901 on the Isle of Lewis. After travelling to North America in the 1920s and serving in World War II, MacFarlane returned to Lewis where he spent the rest of his life. A poet, lyricist and campaigner, he became popular through the 1970s writing about war, emigration, heritage, language and philosophy. Catriona Murray will be joined by Martin MacIntyre, the newly-appointed and first Gaelic Writer in Residence at the University. They will share poetry, prose and songs and will be joined by the lead singer of Na h-Òganaich, Màiread MacLeod, and musician Fraser Fifield to play melodies from Murdo’s works. Màiread – individually and with Na h-Òganaich – has brought many of Murdo’s songs to international audiences. Fraser is a piper, whistle player and saxophonist, and is the Traditional Artist in Residence within the University of Edinburgh’s Department of Celtic and Scottish Studies. Related Links Doras gun Chlàimhean | Acair Books Publication date 29 Nov, 2022
