John’s legacy to go global

A WIGTOWNSHIRE musician’s legacy will be heard all over the world, inspiring deeper appreciation for Scottish traditional music.

One-time resident of Wigtown and student of Douglas Ewart High School, John Mason MBE was a prolific composer, co-founder of the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra, and a passionate advocate for traditional Scottish music up until his death in 2011.

Now a compilation of compositions by John is being gifted to people all over the world to inspire future generations and foster a deeper appreciation for Scottish traditional music.

The collection spans over 600 original compositions and will go to educational and musical institutions globally to preserve and promote traditional Scottish music around the world.

Musician and broadcaster Gary Innes said: “John Mason was a true legend in the world of traditional music – the visionary behind the world-renowned Scottish Fiddle Orchestra and the vibrant musical legacy that it inspired.

“It has been a pleasure to share his music, arrangements, and compositions on BBC Radio Scotland’s Take the Floor over the years, and it’s wonderful to see his legacy immortalised in this book celebrating his life and work.”

The donation of the John M Mason Collection is intended to ensure his legacy lives on, with many pieces in the traditional style, adding to the living repertoire rather than merely preserving old works.

A spokesperson for JDC Publications, publishers of the collection, said: “John Mason’s work brought traditional Scottish music to global audiences. His compositions are a treasure trove for musicians and educators alike, and we are thrilled to help make his work accessible to a global audience.

“We hope this collection will continue to inspire and educate.

“He ensured that fiddle music held its rightful place on the world stage. His musical influence is woven into the fabric of the music of Scotland extending around the world from his homes in Orkney, Wigtownshire and Ayrshire to Canada, China and everywhere in between.”