Savourna stevenson biography of martin
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From http://www.savournastevenson.com/perform_biography.htm
Savourna Stevenson is a world class exponent of the Scottish harp. As both a virtuoso player and a composer she ‘completely re-writes the rule-books and proves the harp is capable of being pushed beyond its usual limits … and sometimes doing the seemingly impossible’ (Taplas).
Savourna, who has been described as ‘a composer who is a national treasure’ (Herald) and ‘Mother of invention’ (Scotsman), identifies strongly with her Scottish roots while breaking through stylistic barriers between traditional, world music, blues, jazz and classical.
Her musical career started in the late 70's when, at 15, she first played at the Queen Elizabeth Hall with Fairport Convention, Ralph McTell and Martin Carthy, and went on to collaborate with many leading figures in traditional music including Dave Swarbrick, Aly Bain (Eclectic CD ‘Tusitala’) and Davy Spillane (Cooking Vinyl CD ‘Calman the Dove’).
Daughter of one of Scotland’s most revered composers, Ronald Stevenson, Savourna’s inherited gift soon became apparent with a growing number of commissions for new music for theatre, dance and television as well as concert commissions. In her acclaimed ‘Tweed Journey’ ( Eclectic CD ‘Tweed Journey’ ) in 1989 she began to ex
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Picking up where we left off, it’s now Savourna’s turn to tell us a bit about herself ahead of Tartan Tales this weekend. We’re looking forward to performing her music and having her on stage, too!
INTERVIEW WITH SAVOURNA STEVENSON
What do you love most about music?
“The thing I love most about music is that it transports you to another world in your imagination.”
What’s your favourite thing about Misterstourworm?
“When the orchestra becomes the sea serpent, Misterstourworm. I also like playing the harp in the fairy queen music.”
Illustration by Martin McKenna
What’s been the biggest challenge in bringing Misterstourworm to life?
“The most challenging thing was learning to write for orchestra as this was my first orchestral work in 2002. I have written several orchestral works since Misterstourworm. Writing for orchestra is perhaps the most challenging but most rewarding task for a composer.”
What’s it like working with us?
“Working for CCC is the most fun a musician could have. Owen Gunnell is one of my favourite musicians. CCC always work with the best musicians which is great for me as a composer.”
How long have you played the harp/clàrsach?
“I have played the harp for 47 years!”
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Savourna Stevenson