Neil Gow
Neil Gow- A Famous Scottish Fiddler
"Father of Strathspey and reel players"
Neil Gow (1727-1807) Known as the "Father of Strathspey and reel players". The son of a plaid weaver, Gow was born in the Perthshire village of Inver, near Dunkeld. He started playing the fiddle at the age of five and was largely self-taught. His open, honest character, unique style of playing, long career and fine compositions combined to make him a household name during his lifetime and a legend after it.
Neil Gow was patronized by the Dukes of Atholl, he was much in demand as a player at important balls and parties. His compositions include Strathspeys, jigs and reels and the exceptional elegiac pieces Niel Gow's Lamentation for James Moray Esq. of Abercarney and Niel Gow's Lament for the Death of his Second Wife.
Niel Gow's influence on Scottish music continued through the influence of his sons, Andrew, John, William and Nathaniel, all of whom were practising musicians. Further influence can be seen in the work of Robert Burns who drew many of the airs for his songs. Burns met Gow (aged 60) when he (Burns) was on his Highland tour. Speaking of Gow, Burns described him as:
'a short, stout-built Highland figure, with his greyish hair shed on his honest social brow - an interesting face, marking strong sense, kind open heartedness mixed with unmistrusting simplicity'.
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