Some Good Books
About Niel Gow’s Scotland and more
Some links for reading directly online–
Stories of Niel Gow and other Strathspey Players
Niel Gow – description by J.S. Skinner
History of Atholl, including sections on Dunkeld and Inver
How the Scots Invented the Modern World, by Arthur Herman –a well written description of the Scottish Enlightenment and some surprising information about a time which was also a golden period for Scottish fiddling–Niel Gow’s Scotland
Crowded With Genius by James Buchan focuses on the amazing contributions made by thinkers and doers in the second half of the 18th century, the era of the Gows, Burns, Hume, Adam Smith and others.
Scottish Fiddle Music of the 18th Century, by David Johnstone – a detailed study from an expert in the field.
MacPherson’s Rant and other tales of the Scottish Fiddle, by Stuart McHardy – the story of the Scottish fiddle plus entertaining tales about Scottish fiddlers, including Niel Gow.
The Fiddle in Scottish Culture: Aspects of the Tradition, by Katharine Campbell -
Scottish Fiddlers and Their Music, by Mary Ann Alburger – a survey of key Scottish fiddlers and composers over the years. Click here for online link (scroll down to find this book for sale).