Music of the Spey

By Deirdre Blyth

Music of the Spey Journey Stone
Image provided by Deirdre Blyth

I have lived beside the Spey for over 30 years. As my eldest daughter grew up she, like many other local youngsters, was inspired by James Alexander and the Fochabers Fiddlers to play the fiddle.

The traditional music which they play is embedded in the local culture and has been for many generations. It has been so much part of my married life that it was the choice of the tune Music of the Spey to be played at my husband's funeral that inspired me to make this the focus of my journey stone. Sadly James also died earlier in 2022 but his legacy lives on through his many pupils.

Many thanks to Deirdre Blyth for sharing with us the story behind her journey stone, created as part of the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands.

WHAT IS A JOURNEY STONE?

Prior to the beginning of the stitching of each tapestry panel, each stitcher of the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands was tasked with telling their interpretation of the 'Spirit of the Highlands and Islands' within a blank outline of a stone. The possibilities were truly endless - is it represented in the land? The people? A historical site? A favourite memory?

In any case, each journey stone represents the connection between of each individual stitcher, their story, and their own sense, or 'spirit', of place. Discover more of the stories behind the journey stones of the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands here.