Locals mark their musical memories of Caithness Mod

People in Caithness are being invited to mark their own musical memories during Mòd Ghallaibh – the Caithness Mod through a joint project between Highland Council’s Libraries in Thurso and Wick and the Caithness Mod Fringe.

“Music Memory Store” is the title of an interactive exhibition that is on display in Thurso and Wick Libraries. The exhibition is part of a number of events being held throughout the county for the Mod Fringe programme.

Staff in Thurso and Wick Libraries teamed up with Alex Patience, Convener of Fringe Committee for Mòd Ghallaibh 2010 earlier in May to offer a selection of music chosen by members of the public.

Alex Patience said: “Our intention is that these thoughts and selections of music will encourage the local community to see the direct connections for them with the National Mòd and for them to develop or showcase their interest in traditional music.”

Robbie Macdonald, Wick Library Supervisor said: “Two copies of each of the selected CD’s and short pieces of writing are available at Wick and Thurso libraries. The CD’s are available for loan, at no cost.”

Thurso Library Assistant Lynda Hall said: “So far we have had a good level of interest in the Music Memory Store. People are posting their own musical memories on the  noticboards at the exhibitions in Wick and Thurso Libraries and we are delighted with the response.”

Since introducing the Music Memory store the take up from borrowers at each library has been very good. And a diverse range of music selections have been chosen over the course such as Runrig, The Dubliners, Calum Kennedy, Addie Harper to name but a few.

Robbie Macdonald added: “Even if you don’t get the opportunity to visit any of the events, the Music Memory Store is great opportunity to sample a piece of the Mòd. CDs are free to borrow for both library and non library members.”

Highland Councillor for Landward Caithness Willie Mackay is among the many who have already shared their musical memory. Councillor Mackay’s memory was ‘Grannies Healan’ Hame’, by Calum Kennedy.

The Music Memory Store is available at both Thurso and Wick libraries. Information about Mòd events in Caithness can be found through the local media or by visiting www.caithnessmod2010.co.uk