Gaelic_News_2014_10_10 - Canadian Celtic Arts Association

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Aithisg Iomairtean na Gàidhlig
Miar do Roinn nan Coimhearsnachdan,
a' Chultair agus an Dualchais
A publication of Gaelic Affairs
A Division of Communities, Culture
and Heritage
www.gov.ns.ca/oga Toll Free 1-888-842-3542
Téipichean Inntinneach:
Iomradh-Sùileachaidh
nam Meadhannan
MEDIA MONITORING
REPORT
2014-10-10
Audios/Videos of Interest
Seisean na Gàidhlig – Gaelic Session 2013 #4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9w3_XSPSqD8
Tha Iomairtean na Gàidhlig a’ tairgsinn chlàir-chlaisnich am measg na feadhna eile a bhios a’
nochdadh, de sheiseanan na Gàidhlig do luchd-obrach Riaghaltas na h-Albann Nuaidhe a
chaidh an cumail ann a’ 2013. Tha teacsa nam faidhlichean claisneach air a cur anns a’
cheangal gus am bi cothrom aig luchd-ionnsachaidh a’ Ghàidhlig a leughadh ’s iad ag
éisdeachd ris a’ chlàr. / Gaelic Affairs presents another of several audio recordings of Gaelic
language sessions held for NS Government Employees in 2013. The text of the audio files is
included in the link so that learners are able to read the Gaelic while listening to the audio.
Chronicle..Special on Cape Breton..Clip 1
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cape-Breton-Music-Media-HistoricalSociety/592834337414566#!/video.php?v=818175854880412&set=vb.592834337414566&type
=2&theater
The late Kaye MacDonald appears on this video hosting a Gaelic radio programme.
NACH MULADACH MULADACH DUINE LÉIS FHÈIN / Sgian Dubh -Còig (2014) FIVE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=npDK84tGyFw#t=40
"CÒIG ("Ko-ig". Gaelic for '5') is an exciting ensemble consisting of five solo acts,
and is one of Cape Breton’s most captivating young bands. Originally coming
together for a promotional tour for the Celtic Colours International Festival,..
100 oran/100 songs
http://www.gaidhliggachlatha.com/blog-mios-na-gaidhlig
Caroline Root has taken on a project to sing 100 different Gaelic songs by Christmas. Caroline has been involved
with Gaelic for more than 15 years. She has degrees in Celtic Studies and Gaelic Medium Teaching.
Iomradh-Sùileachaidh nam Meadhannan - Media Monitoring Report
Page 1 of 19
Bun is Bàrr: Prógram a bhios a’ cur luchd-comhairle na Gàidhlig cuide ri luchd-ionnsachaidh ùr
Bun is Barr: Program pairs Gaelic mentors with new learners
http://www.thechronicleherald.ca/novascotia/1242077-bun-is-barr-program-pairs-gaelic-mentors-with-new-learners
Francis Campbell, Oct. 7, 2014
It’s a real conversation starter.
The provincial office of Gaelic Affairs is offering a mentoring program to provide Gaelic learners the
opportunity to work with mentors and Gaelic-speaking elders.
“At the end of the program, we hope to have new Gaelic learners in the province who have a greater
appreciation and awareness of Nova Scotia Gaelic culture,” Frances MacEachen, a Gaelic program officer,
said from her office in Mabou.
“It’s all rooted in people and place. It’s not just learning a language, it’s learning a language in context of
culture. As elder speakers age, their knowledge is passed down to another generation.”
The Bun is Barr program — root and branch in Gaelic — is open to learners at all levels, and individual
learning plans will be designed according to the needs of the mentoring team. Teams can consist of an
apprentice working one-on-one with a mentor or two to three apprentices working with a mentor.
Social opportunities to use the language are important, according to the office. There will be an
orientation session for all teams, and monthly social gatherings where participants will practise language
and cultural skills, hear stories told by elders and fluent speakers, and get to know each other better
through Gaelic.
The mentoring will take place in the community, probably in a mentor’s or apprentice’s home.
“It will be lot about conversational skills,” MacEachen said.
“There won’t be grammar lessons. It’s not a classroom type of thing. The community and the home
environment, that’s the classroom.”
Mentors are paid a travel stipend, and apprentice applicants can apply for a bursary to study in the
program. The program will run from November to March.
“The thing that they really have to invest is their time. We ask at least 10 hours a week with the mentor,
listening to conversations and working on their own.”
Apprentice applicants are to be Nova Scotia residents, show independence and motivation to learn, have
a strong interest in the language and culture, attend an orientation session and submit activity reports to
Gaelic Affairs.
MacEachen said there has already been interest from Cape Breton, Antigonish County and Halifax, and
she hopes to attract applicants from all over the province.
The deadline for applications is Tuesday, and letters of interest should be sent to MacEachen at the
Office of Gaelic Affairs, PO Box 261, Mabou, B0E 1X0, or by emailing maceacff@gov.ns.ca.
Iomradh-Sùileachaidh nam Meadhannan - Media Monitoring Report
Page 2 of 19
Clasaichean Gàidhlig ann a’ Liosmór - Gaelic Classes in Lismore
Back Row:
L to R: Uendidh NicAonghais, Seonag
Dhòmhnallach, Faye DhòmhnallachKinney
Front Row:
L to R: Mìcheal MacAnndrais, Sine
NicAnndrais, Catriona Nic’ IlleBhrathNicAnndrais, Wilma NicAonghais –Buirc
Missing from photo:
Audrey NicLachlainn agus Pat
NicFhionghuin
Chaidh a’ chiad chlas de Chlasaichean Gàidhlig do
Luchd-tòiseachaidh a chur air dòigh aig Ionad
Coimhearsnachd Lismóir air a’1d là dhen t-Sultain le
luchd-teagaisg Uendidh NicAonghais agus Seonag
Dhòmhnallach os an cionn. Tha an sgìre seo ann a’
Siorramachd Phictou air a bhith ’na cuithir a thaobh
na Gàidhlig, a ciùil agus a dualchais agus tha na compàirtichean air fàilte chridheil a chur air na
clasaichean seo. ’S ann bho àitean ann an Albainn a
thàinig móran dhe na h-ainmean-àite agus nan
cinnidhean anns a’ sgìre—’s ann bho Liosmór, Dhail
na h-Aibhne, agus Allt a’ Bhàillidh a tha feadhainn
dhe na sgoilearan againn. Chaidh cho math leis a’
chiad sheasan a mhair 6 seachdainean’s gu robh
miann air darna sheasan a ruitheas eadar An Dàmhair
20 agus An t-Samhain 24. Bidh na clasaichean a’
mairsinn 2 uair-a thìde, le leasan, srùbaig, bùthobrach òrain, ceum no dhà de dhanns’ agus spòrs gu
leòr. Théid fàilt’ a chur air a h-uile duine. Tha taic
’ga toirt dha na clasaichean seo le Comunn Ceilteach
Siorramachd Phictou fo stiùireadh Frangaig
Dhòmhnallaich
Iomradh-Sùileachaidh nam Meadhannan - Media Monitoring Report
Beginner Gaelic Classes were embarked upon
September 1st, 2014 at Lismore Community
Centre with instructors Wendy McInnis and Joan
MacDonald. This area of Pictou County has long
been a stronghold of Gaelic language, music and
culture and these classes have been met with
great enthusiasm. Many of the place names and
surnames in the area have Gaelic origins. Our
students hail from such places as Liosmór, Dail
na h-Aibhne, and Allt a’Bhàillidh. After our first
initiative of a 6 week session the response was
favourable enough to warrant a second session
which will run from Monday October 20thNov.24th. The classes are 2 hours in length and
consist of a lesson, a tea break, a song
workshop, a few steps and lots of laughs. All are
welcome. These classes are supported by the
Pictou County Celtic Assn. under the direction of
Frances MacDonald.
Page 3 of 19
Saoghal na Gàidhlig…. The Gaelic Way of Living in the World
Victoria Standard –October 2014 – Catriona Parsons
Am measg àireamh na cléire a chaidh am pòsadh bho chionn
Among the clergy more recently inducted into their first churches
ghoirid ri ’n ciad eaglaisean agus a tha a’ dèanamh oidhirp gus a’
who are working to learn the Gaelic language is Rev. Alison Etter.
Ghàidhlig ’ionnsachadh, gheobhar an Urr. Aileasan Etter. Tha
Alison serves three churches: Greenwood United, Baddeck; St.
Aileasan a’ toirt seirbheis do thrì eaglaisean: Eaglais Aonaichte
Andrew’s, Big Baddeck; and Middle River United—an awesome task
Greenwood, Badaig; Eaglais Naoimh Anndra, Badaig Mhór; agus
indeed. But Alison is enthusiastic about her work; and her family and
Eaglais Aonaichte na h-Aibhne Meadhonaich—obair mhór dha-rìribh!
personal history illumine her choice of vocation—and her interest in
Ach ’s e bana-mhinistear dhealasach a th’ ann an Aileasan; agus
acquiring Gaelic.
gheobh sinn beagan de thuigse bho a h-eachdraidh fhéin agus
Alison’s father David’s people, the Etters, were of Swiss origin and
eachdraidh an teaghlaich aice air mar a thàinig i gu gairm chun na
came to Nova Scotia from Boston with the Loyalists; her mother
ministrealachd a fhreagairt—agus gu suim anns a’ Ghàidhlig a
Catherine, on the other hand, was a MacAulay from Sackville, New
thogail.
Brunswick. An account is given in “Cape Breton Worthies” of how
’S ann ás An Eilbheis a bha cuideachd a h-athar, Daibhidh Etter;
Donald MacAulay, Alison’s great-great-grandfather, born in Lochalsh
agus bha iad am measg nan Dìlseach a shuidhich ann an Albainn
on Scotland’s west coast in 1819, at two years of age landed in
Nuaidh. ’S e NicAmhlaidh a bha ’na màthair Catriona, a rugadh ann
Sydney, Cape Breton, with his parents. By 1825, the family was
a’ Sackville, Brunsuic Nuadh. Anns a’ leabhar “Cape Breton
settled on the peninsula of ‘Red Head’ (roughly translated from
Worthies”, tha cunntas air mar a ràinig Dòmhnall MacAmhlaidh, an
Mi’kmaq), now Beinn Bhrèagh, where Donald lived for the remainder
sinn-sinn-seanair aig Aileasan, Baile Shuidnidh, còmhla ri
’
of his life. Interestingly, the first of his two wives was Mary
phàrantan anns a’ bhliadhna 1821 nuair nach robh e ach dà bhliadhn’ MacDougall of Whycocomagh, sister of Rev. Donald MacDougall who
a dh’aois; b’ ann an Loch Aills’ air oirthir taobh siar na Gàidhealtachd
served at Greenwood Church, Baddeck, from September 1892 until
a rugadh e. Mu 1825, bha an teaghlach air suidheachadh air ceannSeptember 1907. (Keep in mind that the first language of both
tìre a’ Chinn Ruaidh (Beinn Bhrèagh an diugh) faisg air Badaig, far na Donalds would have been Gaelic).
chuir Dòmhnall seachad an còrr dh’ a bheatha. Gu h-inntinneach, b’ e
It is written of Donald MacAulay: “At the summer communions
Màiri NicDhùghaill á Hogoma, piuthar dhan Urr. Dòmhnall
throughout the island no speaker was in greater demand. None of
MacDhùghaill a bha ’na mhinistear aig Eaglais Greenwood, Badaig,
the ‘men’ of his day surpassed him in eloquence; few were his
1892-1907, a chiad bhean. Chaidh a sgrìobhadh air Dòmhnall
equals….it was no small privilege to sit at his feet and listen to his
MacAmhlaidh nach robh iarrtas na bu mhotha air labhraiche eile aig
counsels, so rich in wisdom and so impressively spoken…”
comanachaidhean an t-samhraidh; agus nach d’ thug gin dhe na
Born in Shubenacadie, N.S. but brought up since the age of ten in
saoidhean bàrr air ann an deas-chainnt.
Mahone Bay, Alison felt the first stirrings towards ministry at the age
Air a breith ann a’ Shubenacadie, Alba Nuadh, ach air a togail bho of seven during a worship service. After studying Music at the
aois deich bliadhna ann a’ Bagh Mahone, dh’ fhairich Aileasan
University of Ottawa, she put in seven months of service at L’ Arche
teannadh a dh’ionnsaidh na ministrealachd an toiseach aig seirbheis
Québec; and then to Iona, St. Columba’s Isle in Scotland, where she
nuair a bha i seachd bliadhn’ a dh’ aois. Ás déidh dhi Ceòl a
spent nine weeks working in the kitchen and immersing herself in the
rannsachadh aig Oilthigh Ottawa, chuir i seachad seachd mìosan ag
history, in the two daily services, in discussions on faith, and in
obair aig L’Arche Chuebeic; agus an uair sin, naoi seachdain air
fellowship. Gaelic speaker and singer Mòrag MacNeil from Barra
Eilean Ìdhe, Eilean Choluim Chille, far an robh i ag obair’s a’ chidsin
made a special impression.
agus ’ga bogadh fhéin ann an eachdraidh, anns an dà sheirbheis
While Alison was at the University of Ottawa, two things occurred
gach là, ann a’ còmhradh air creideamh agus ann a’ companas.
that added to her interest in the Gaelic language. She read and
Chuir a’ Ghàidhlig agus an t-seinn aig Mòrag NicNèill á Barraidh
enjoyed Alistair MacLeod’s novel “No Great Mischief”, written in
drùidh oirre gu sònraichte.
English but with some dialogue and songs in Gaelic and French,
Nuair a bha Aileasan aig Oilthigh Ottawa, thachair dà rud a
flashbacks to a Cape Breton childhood, and clan history going back to
mheudaich a suim anns a’ Ghàidhlig. Leugh i an ùirsgeul aig Alasdair the time of the Battle of Culloden. Also, while writing a paper on
MacLeòid, “No Great Mischief”, far a bheil còmhradh agus òrain
folklorist Helen Creighton, she was struck that Creighton lamented
Ghàidhlig a’ siud’s a’seo, sùil air ais do leanabas Cheap Breatainn,
her lack of both French and Gaelic and her inability to transcribe
agus eachdraidh chinnidh a’ dol air ais gu Blàr
music. For Alison, able both to speak French and transcribe music, it
Chùil Lodair. Cuideachd, nuair a bha i a’ sgrìobhadh pàipeir air Helen remained only to learn Gaelic to have all three competencies.
Creighton, agus a dh’ ionnsaich i nach robh Fraingis no a’ Ghàidhlig
Alison reflects on the population drain from Cape Breton, including
aig Creighton agus nach b’ urrainn dhi ceòl ’ath-sgrìobhadh—
the communities of her three charges. That their young minister is
easbhaidhean a bha i a’ caoineadh’s i ag obair air beul-aithris a
learning Gaelic, and desirous of preaching in Gaelic, is an aspect of
chruinneachadh—bhuail e air Aileasan gu robh Fraingis aice fhéin ,
renewal that can only be an inspiration to many. She feels that all
gum b’ urrainn dhi ceòl ’ath-sgrìobhadh, agus nach robh a dhìth oirre
areas of community life should be embraced in the resurgence of
ach a’ Ghàidhlig ’ionnsachadh!
Gaelic, including the worship life of the people. (As my American
Bidh Aileasan a’ cnuasachadh air mar a tha àireamhan an tfriends might say: “Way to go, Alison!”)
sluaigh air a bhith a’ dol sìos ann a’ Ceap Breatainn, ann a’
coimhearsnachdan nan eaglaisean aice mar anns a’ chòrr. Gu bheil
a’ bhana-mhinistear òg aca ag ionnsachadh na Gàidhlig, agus airson
searmonachadh a dhèanamh’s a’ Ghàidhlig, ’s cinnteach gur e seo
aobhar ùrachaidh agus cùis brosnachaidh do choimhthional sam
bith. Mar a chanas i: “Bu chòir fàilteachadh a thoirt dhan Ghàidhlig
ann an adhradh mar ann a’ rud sam bith eile!” Sin thu-fhéin, Aileasan!
Iomradh-Sùileachaidh nam Meadhannan - Media Monitoring Report
Page 4 of 19
Muireall Fisher air duais Bàrr-feabhais ann a’ Cànanachas Coimhearsnachd a chosnadh bho Chomunn
Cànanachas Aimearagaidh
Muriel Fisher wins Excellence in Community Linguistics award from the Linguistic Society of America
http://linguistics.arizona.edu/news/muriel-fisher-wins-excellence-community-linguistics-award-linguistic-society-america
Muriel Fisher, research scientist Sr. in the Department of Linguistics and Gaelic
language teacher has been awarded the "Excellence in Community Linguistics"
award from the National Science Foundation. This award recognizes her lifetime
commitment to documenting, revitalizing and teaching the Scottish Gaelic language.
Muriel, a native speaker of Gaelic from the Island of Skye, has been teaching Gaelic
here in Tucson for many years, privately in her Tucson Gaelic Institute, at the Pima
Community College and at the University of Arizona. She also spends each summer
at the Gaelic College on Skye (Sabhal Mòr Ostaig), teaching in their short courses
programs. Since 2008, Muriel has been working with various linguists (Carnie,
Hammond, Archangeli, Warner, Ussishkin) in the department of linguistics at the
University of Arizona on three National Science Foundation grants to help document
the Scottish Gaelic language. She has been a critical participant in elicitation, translation and transcription on a
project documenting the syntactic constructions of the language. She has helped to create and design
experiments on a variety of unique phonological and phonetic properties of the language including the famous
Initial Consonant Mutations. And she has lead teams of faculty and graduate students to Skye to conduct these
adventures in fieldwork. We offer Muriel our heartiest congratulations for this prestigious award and thank her for
all the work she has done in advancing the field of linguistics and the cause of Scottish Gaelic.
Faclan Feumail Gàidhlig aig Poilìn:
PAULINE’S HANDY GAELIC WORDS
Thug i sglamadh dhomh
Literal Meaning:
She gave me a blast – a dressing down – tore a strip off me!
Iomradh-Sùileachaidh nam Meadhannan - Media Monitoring Report
Page 5 of 19
Faigh eòlas air na bhuineas dhan Ghàidhlig ann an Antaiginis
Experience Gaelic Antigonish
by Lewis MacKinnon, Executive Director, Gaelic Affairs, Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage
Seanchas na Féinne: Tionndadh Aonghais ’icÌosaig (à Loch an Fhamhair) do Theanntachd Mhór na Féinne (a’
leanaid air an artaigeal mu dheireadh)Air a sheinn le Aonghas MacÌosaig ann an Antaiginis is air a reacòrdadh le
Iain Lathurn Caimbeul (17 an Céitean, 1953). Cuir sùil air a’ leabhar, Òrain air an Cuimhneachadh ann am Fògradh,
gus tuilleadh fhiosrachaidh ’fhaighinn.
Fenian Tales: Angus MacIsaac’s (of Giant’s Lake) version of the Great Distress of the Fenians
Sung by Angus MacIsaac in Antigonish and recorded by John Lorne Campbell (17 May, 1953). See the book Songs
Remembered in Exile for more information.
’S an oidhche chaidh Pàdraig ’na mhuir,
Bha sùrd air seirm is air òl,
A’ coimhead air Oisin na Fèinn’
O ’s ann leis bu bhinne glòir.
Oisin:
‘A Chlèirich a sheinneas na sailm,
Air liom fhéin gur bàth do chiall,
Nach éisdeadh tu tamall ri m’ sgeul,
Air an Fhéinn, nach cual’ tu ’riamh?’
Pàdraig:
‘Chan éisd mi tamall ri d’ sgeul,
Air an Fhéinn nach cuala mi ’riamh,
Is blas nan salm air feadh mo bheòil –
Gum b’fhèarr siod do cheòl dhomh fhìn.’
Oisin:
‘Ma ’s ann a’ sanntachadh do shailm
Ri Féinn Éirinn nan arm nochd –
A Chléirich ’s ro thanadh liom
Nach sgarainn do cheann bho d’ chorp.’
Pàdraig:
‘’S e do bheatha, mo thruaighe!
’Ugad air chuairt thàinig sinn –
Dé ’n cath ’s bu chruaidh’ ’n robh an Fhéinn,
O’n a ghein thu ’riamh ’nan lorg?’
Oisin:
‘Bha sinn latha ’s a’ bheinn t-seilg,
’S cha tàinig an t-sealg ’nar car,
’S gu faca sinn mile bàt’
Air an tràigh air teachdaireachd.’
‘Mac Rìgh Lochlainn bha ’n siod air cràdh –
Gu dé fàth a bhith ’ga chleith –
’S cha ghabh e cumail bho Fhionn
Gu ’n ògbhean is ’s a chù thoirt leis.
‘’S a Rìgh! Cha tugainn-sa mo bhean,
Do dhuine a tha fo’n ghréin,
’S cha toir mi Bran gu lath’ bhràtha,
Gus an tig am bàs orm fhéin!’
The night (Saint) Patrick went to his (i.e. Oisin’s) dwelling,
There was hilarity, singing and drinking –
To see Oisin of the Fiann (followers of Fionn MacCumhail),
Since his speech was sweetest.
Oisin:
‘O Cleric who sings the psalms,
I think your sense is simple;
Would you not listen a while to my story about the Fiann,
Which you have never heard?’
Patrick:
‘I will not listen a while to your tale about the Fiann,
Which I never heard,
With the tasted of the psalms on my lips –
That is the music I myself would prefer.’
Oisin:
‘If you are preferring your psalms
To the Fiann of Ireland of naked weapons,
O Cleric, but for little
I would sever your head from your body!’
Patrick:
‘You are welcome, alas!
We came to visit you (to ask)
What was the hardest fight in which the Fiann were,
Since you were born of their race?’
Oisin:
‘One day we were on the hill for hunting,
And the quarry did not come our way,
We saw a thousand ships,
Come on an errand on the shore.’
‘The son of the King of Norway was there, vexed –
What reason is there to hide it?
He cannot be restrained from Fionn, with taking
Fionn’s young wife and his dog with him.’
‘My God! I will not give my wife
To any man under the sun,
And I will never give Bran (Fionn’s dog) away,
Until death comes on to me myself.’
Iomradh-Sùileachaidh nam Meadhannan - Media Monitoring Report
Page 6 of 19
Buaidh is ruigsinneachd na Colaiste gan comharrachadh aig 30mh Ceumnachd an t-Sabhail Mhòir
Success and reach of the College celebrated at
Sabhal Mòr Ostaig’s 30th Graduation
Fifty students graduated from Sabhal Mòr Ostaig on Friday (3 October) at a ceremony which showcased the high
academic standards of the College and the commendable achievements of its students, and where the honour Sàr
Ghàidheal was bestowed on two further recipients for their services to Gaelic.
Friday’s Graduation was the 30th such occasion for SMO and saw a high number of students graduating from the College’s
various programmes, and where the number of overseas students in attendance once again highlighted the international
reach of Sabhal Mòr. Nearly 900 students have now graduated from Sabhal Mòr Ostaig and a record number of students,
232, enrolled on Higher Education courses at the College this session.
The College’s Vice-Principal and Director of Studies, John Norman MacLeod said: “We are particularly delighted that so
many students have achieved various degrees and certificates and, this year again, that students have achieved very high
academic standards. The fact that there were graduates from across Scotland, from England, Germany, Finland, the Czech
Republic and Nova Scotia demonstrates that the reach and influence of the College is expanding. It would be appropriate
to highlight that Eilidh MacFadyen, a BA (Hons) Gaelic and Traditional Music student, gained three awards, and we are
especially delighted that she was awarded the UHI Student of the Year, the first student from Sabhal Mòr Ostaig to
achieve this distinction.”
Eilidh, from Tiree, received three awards, Undergraduate Student of the Year at SMO and UHI and she was once again
awarded the Margaret Roberston Memorial Award in recognition of her efforts to organize events at the College.
Speaking afterwards, Eilidh commented: “I am delighted to have been named Student of the Year for Sabhal Mòr and UHI.
It was totally unexpected and I am very honoured that staff at SMO thought that I was deserving of such an award. The
last three years have been fantastic, with the chance to learn from some of the best lecturers in Gaelic and Traditional
Music, and I’m sure that my final year will be just as enjoyable.”
The evening also saw the work and dedication of a brother and sister, whose names are synonymous with excellence in
Gaelic education, recognised as they were awarded the Sàr Ghàidheal honour.
Sabhal Mòr Ostaig’s Principal, Professor Boyd Robertson, said: “This is the first time that the ‘Supreme Gael’ title has been
bestowed on a brother and sister and both are richly deserving recipients. Chrissie and Lachie Dick have contributed
hugely to the Gaelic world down through the years in various ways and fields. Chrissie is a celebrated writer and
broadcaster and has made a highly significant contribution to Gaelic education as a teacher, curriculum developer and as
a lecturer and teacher trainer in Jordanhill and St Andrew’s Colleges of Education and in the University of Strathclyde.
Lachie earned much respect as Principal Teacher of Gaelic at Inverness Royal Academy, as Gaelic Adviser in the Western
Isles and then as Depute Director of Education for Comhairle nan Eilean. Both of them have given sterling service to the
College, Chrissie as a trustee and co-author of A Waxing Moon, the story of Sabhal Mòr, and Lachie as a trustee for two
periods and as Academic Development Co-ordinator for many years.”
The Head of BBC ALBA, Margaret Mary Murray gave this year’s graduation lecture. She spoke of the important role Gaelic
had played in her life and career and added that BBC ALBA was not only a valuable service for Gaelic speakers but also
provided an excellent means to promote Gaelic and its culture and raise awareness of the language so that its worth is
recognised by others. She encouraged students to appreciate the value of the language and the education they had
received at SMO, and she asked them to remember three fundamental strands which are vital to all of our lives language, friends and family, and community.
For more information: Mick MacNèill, Marketing Manager at SMO Email: mm2.smo@uhi.ac.uk Phone: 01471 888217
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Cànain ’ga cur an gnìomh: pilltinn mhór na Gàidhlig
Language as activism: the big Gaelic comeback
The native tongue of the Highlands and islands seemed to be dying out – until the latest figures were released.
http://www.newstatesman.com/2014/02/springtime-gaelic
Gaelic is a remnant from Scotland’s independent past. Until the 18th century it was widely spoken in the Highlands
and Islands – for 290,000 Scots it was their first and only tongue – but a government ban on all elements of
Highland culture after the Jacobite rebellion started 350 years of decline. Since then the number of Gaelic speakers
has dwindled year by year. The 1991 census showed a drop of more than 20 per cent in a single decade. By 2001 the
number had fallen another 11 per cent, to just 59,000. Gaelic speakers were ageing, then dying, and their language
was dying with them.
When the latest figures were released in September, naysayers were preparing to sound the knell. But the new
total (58,000) had barely dipped and closer inspection revealed new growth: in every age group under the age of
20, there had been a rise.
There is a Gaelic revival under way. Increasing numbers of parents – even those who don’t speak the language – are
opting to send their children to Gaelic-medium schools, where all subjects are taught in the language. In 1985 there
were only 24 primary school children being taught in Gaelic; last year the figure was 2,953. Sixty-one schools across
Scotland now offer Gaelic-medium education. The expectation is that, as time passes, these young Gaels will
revitalise a language that is intricately tied up with their country’s identity.
My two-year-old nephew Daniel will be one of them. His parents – my brother Rory and his wife, Claire – speak only
English, but have chosen for him to attend Fàs Mòr, a pre-school in Sleat on the Isle of Skye where staff speak to the
children entirely in Gaelic. He chatters away happily in English, producing new and unexpected words like rabbits
from a hat. He sings to himself as he plays: “Baa, Baa, Black Sheep” and “Twinkle, Twinkle”. But sometimes he
rattles off one I don’t recognise. “Nee-naw, nee-naw,” he calls out suddenly one morning, “einnsean-smàlaidh.”
“Oh,” says my brother, noticing my confusion, “it’s a Gaelic one. Something about a fire engine.”
I’m intrigued by Daniel’s secret school language. The Fàs Mòr building perches on a windy hillside next to the Gaelic
college Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, two miles north of the Armadale jetty, from where the ferry runs to Mallaig when the
weather’s fine. We bundle down the steps past a cheery paper display full of words I don’t recognise. Càirdeas, it
says. Toileachas. Iongnadh. Spèis. Friendship; happiness; wonder; love. The windows look out across the Sound of
Sleat to the mountains of the wild Knoydart Peninsula beyond. A distant fishing boat trawls slowly across the view
from left to right.
“Madainn mhath, Daniel,” says a dark-haired woman, smiling at him. “Ciamar a tha thu?” Daniel comes over all shy,
looking up at her through his blond forelock. The teaching assistant continues to talk to him in Gaelic as he listens,
quietly.
“He understands a lot more than he says,” Rory tells me. Sure enough, when she asks another question, Daniel nods
and follows her to play in the corner of the room.
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Little Caitlin is already here. Her mother, Gwen Culbertson, is the head teacher at Bun-sgoil Shlèite, the primary
school next door. There, the parents can choose which language they would like their child to be taught in. Fifty
children are taught in Gaelic, only 12 in English.
The benefits of bilingualism are well known: improved mental agility, faster learning of tertiary languages,
protection against age-related memory loss. But it strikes me that, in an increasingly international society, educating
your child in a hyper-local language – one that’s in decline – is an unusual choice for young, professional parents.
About this, Rory is sanguine: “Yes, it would provide more international opportunities if he was being taught in
Spanish . . . but to be immersed in Gaelic for the first years of his education will give him an understanding of
language that will become instinctive later in life. It’s the language of our area: what is spoken in the pub, at
meetings, and so on. There has always been an impression that Gaelic is a bit of a nostalgic, inward-looking culture,
but it seems to have a lot of energy and passion behind it now.”
Not speaking the language themselves can cause problems for my brother and Claire. For one thing, they will be
unable to help Daniel with schoolwork when he is older. But new resources have been developed for parents in
their position, such as Gaelic4Parents, a website that offers help with homework by instant messaging between
5pm and 7pm during term time.
Three-year-old Seonaidh (pronounced “Shaunnie”) is another regular at Fàs Mòr. His mother, Floraidh Forrest, has
spoken Gaelic since she was a child and runs a bilingual creative agency in Sleat, but her Californian husband, a
musician, learned the language only after they moved to Skye. “Decker and I both exclusively speak Gaelic to the
boys,” she says, “though we don’t always speak it to each other.
“I am, I suppose, strict with Seonaidh: if he speaks to me in English I ask him to repeat it in Gaelic. I’m not one of
those crazy Gaelic mums – I’m certainly not anti-the English language – but it’s a gift I can give my kids for free that
will benefit them for the rest of their lives.”
Gaelic skipped two generations in my family, but Daniel’s enrolment at Fàs Mòr has sparked an interest among all of
us. My mother, who last spoke Gaelic in school, now plans evening classes, so she might talk to her grandson in the
language her own father loved.
And, across the country, Daniel’s pre-school peers are inspiring their own families into action: a new generation of
tiny Gaelic activists.
Nocturne agus A’ Fàs Ri Chèile / Growing Together - Nocturne
Nocturne agus A’ Fàs Ri Chèile / Growing Together –Nocturne: Art at Night is returning for the seventh
year to transform the streets of Halifax into an engaging, creative space for visual art on Saturday, October
18, 2014. A collaborative expression of community, Nocturne is a volunteer-run organization that showcases
Halifax’s vibrant and diverse local arts scene, from independent projects to galleries. More information on the
event and the organization can be found at nocturnehalifax.ca.
Gaelic will feature prominently in a Nocturne installation at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design entitled
A’ Fàs Ri Chèile / Growing Together. This will be a celebration of Gaelic language and culture in Nova Scotia
while showcasing the collaborative textiles project of students from Inglis Street Elementary and Citadel High
Gaelic students, with assistance from NSCAD students and staff.
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In addition to the textiles project, students will be participating in a milling frolic which will be held at the Bell
Auditorium at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design Duke Street Entrance on the evening of Nocturne. This
will be a participatory exhibit, so be prepared to have a seat at the table :-)
If you would like more information, or maybe want to help out and volunteer, please contact Melissa at
mmacneil-shaw@hrsb.ca.
The public is welcome, and the participation of the Gaelic community needed. Hope to see you there!
Cùrsa Meudachail na Gàidhlig a Mhaireas Ceithir Seachdainean
Four-Week Gaelic Intensive Course
Dates:
Monday-Thursday
Location:
Cost:
Oct 20- Nov 1
6:30- 9:30
48 Kiltarlity Rd., Gillisdale (South West Margaree)
$120
This program is for people who have had some exposure to Gaelic already, but who want to learn more
and become comfortable speaking. There is no reading, writing or notes. We learn by repeating basic
conversational phrases - all in Gaelic, in fun and social gatherings.
To register or for more information please contact Carmen, carmen.macarthur@yahoo.ca, 902-248-2521.
Tha Móran aig a’ Chlachan Ghàidhealach ri Thairgsinn rè Féis nan Dathan Ceilteach
Highland Village Has Much to Offer During Celtic Colours Festival
The Highland Village will be an exciting place to be during the Celtic Colours International Festival from October 10-18
this year.
Cape Breton has the only living Celtic culture in North America and the beautiful 43 acre site in Iona is dedicated to
celebrating the history of Gaelic settlement in Nova Scotia.. Costumed animators occupy the 11 period buildings on
the property and have a special passion for telling this story because in many cases, they are direct descendants of
the Gaelic settlers in the area.
During the Celtic Colours Festival, the Village will be alive with music, dance & storytelling. There will be lectures,
demonstrations and workshops. There will even be a special Gaelic tour of the 11 historic buildings lead by costumed
animators.
The Highland Village is centrally located and is a great place to spend the day when you are travelling to one of the
evening Celtic Colours venues. It is also a Festival venue. On Friday, October 17, there will be a Celtic Colours
Concert in the Malagawatch Church at the Village.
This is a list of the many terrific programs being offered at the Highland Village during the Celtic Colours Festival:
Tuesday, October 14- Celtic Colours Céilidh 200pm
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Tuesday, October 14 – Annual Joe Neil MacNeil Memorial Lecture 4:30pm
Wednesday, October 15 - Celtic Colours Milling Frolic 2:00pm
Wednesday, October 15 - “Chun A’ Rubha”, a Gaelic tour 1:00-4:00pm
Thursday, October 16 - Marag Making Workshop (registration required)
Thursday, October 16 - Roast Beef and Marag Lunch 12:30-2:30pm
Thursday, October 16 - Special Storytelling Tour & Traditional Céilidh 2:00pm
Friday, October 17 – - Natural Dye Workshop (registration required)
Friday, October 17 – Gaelic Song Workshop 2:00pm
Friday, October 17 - Celtic Colours Concert in the Malagawatch Church 7:30pm
For more information visit highlandvillage.ca or call 866-442-3542 (toll free).
The Highland Village Museum/An Clachan Gàidhealach is a living history museum and folk-life centre located in Iona,
Cape Breton Island, overlooking the Bras d'Or Lakes. Highland Village is a part of the Nova Scotia Museum operated
in partnership with the Nova Scotia Highland Village Society.
30-
Sanas bho Chomunn Gàidhlig Antaiginis
Notice from Antigonish Gaelic Society
There will be beginner Gaelic offered at Comunn Gàidhlig Antaiginis beginning Tuesday, October 21st
from 6:00 to 7:00. There will be intermediate Gaelic lessons at Comunn Gàidhlig Antaiginis starting
Tuesday, October 21st from 7-8:30. The Gaelic instructor will be Mairi Parr. The cost of 10 lessons will be
$50.00 which must be paid at the first lesson. To register contact: Brian MacDonald
b.j.macdonald@ns.sympatico.ca
PS: Mairi is donating her fee to the high school trip to Scotland!
Sanas bho Sgoil Ghàidhlig Bhaile a’ Chlamhain
Notice from Port Hawkesbury School of Gaelic
Port Hawkesbury School of Gaelic (Sgoil Ghaidhlig Bhaile a’ Chlamhain) 2014/15 classes will start October
20, 2014, 7:00 to 9:00 pm at the Knight of Columbus Hall, P.H. Cost of 20 week session is $100.00. Weekly
payment option available. All levels of learners and beginners welcome. Come out to be a part of the
resurgence of the Gaelic language. Thig air chèilidh oirnn (Come visit us).
Phone George at 902-631-3201 for more information.
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Sanas bho Fhéis an Eilein
Notice from Christmas Island
Féis an Eilein will sponsor an 8 week session of Gaelic language classes at the Christmas Island Fire Hall beginning on
Monday October 20 and continuing until Monday December 8th. Instruction will be offered at 3 levels. Beginner
and Advanced Beginner will take place from 6:30 to 8:30, and the Intermediate/Advanced class will run from 7:30
until 9:30. Cost is $50.00 for all 8 weeks and there is no charge for students and native Gaelic speakers. For more
information please e-mail feisaneilein@ns.sympatico.ca
Cuireadh bho’n Chlachan Ghàidhealach
Invitation from Highland Village, Iona
Invitations
Please join us in Highland Village’s Tuning Room, Saturday, October 11th at 4:30 PM for a special Scotch Music
presentation by Barry Shears titled: The Seed of the Pipers, an examination of traditional music and regional piping
styles in the New World Gàidhealtachd during the second half of the 20th century. Admission is free. Tea and
oatcakes will be served following questions. All welcome. Feuchaibh gum bidh sibh ann aig a' Chlachan!
Sìol nam Pìopair
Over 80 highland pipers came to the Nova Scotia from Scotland during the immigration period, 1773-1850. By the
late 19th - early 20th century hundreds of pipers and chanter players could be found among their descendants in
settlements in Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia and the west coast of Newfoundland. Providing dance music was
the main function of these musicians and, in many cases these pipers represented a regional form of bagpipe
playing which differed from area to area. In the mid-twentieth century the number of traditionally trained pipers in
the region had shrunk considerably. By the time any serious research could be conducted in the 1980s on topics
such as repertory, technique and performance style, there were only a handful of these tradition bearers left. This
lecture will outline the changing role of the highland piper in Nova Scotia society in the 20th century and examine
the differences of this once diverse musical tradition.
Òraid Bhliadhnail an Cuimhne air Eòs Nìll Bhig gu bhith ’ga Cumail aig a’
Chlachan Ghàidhealach
Annual Joe Neil MacNeil Memorial Lecture to be held at Highland Village
This annual lecture commemorates the Cape Breton tradition of Gaelic storytelling as exemplified by the late Joe
Neil MacNeil of Middle Cape and will take place at the Highland Village in Iona on October 14th at 4:30 PM.
Joe Neil MacNeil was one of Gaeldom’s last great story tellers. Many of his tales and stories appear in his
book Sgeul gu Latha(Tales Til Dawn), edited by Dr. John Shaw.
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John Alex MacPherson and Dr. Michael Linkletter, St. F.X. Celtic Department, will be jointly present this year's
Lecture Their collaboration has resulted in the Cape Breton University publication of Fògradh, Fàisneachd,
Filidheachd(Parting, Prophecy, Poetry), a selection of Rev. Duncan Black Blair writings that appeared in the Sydney
based Gaelic newspaper Mac-Talla.
The Reverend Duncan Black Blair came to Nova Scotia from Scotland in 1846. Blair published widely in newspapers
of his time, including Cape Breton’s famous all-Gaelic Mac-Talla, on items such as emigrating from Scotland,
traveling around the Maritimes and Ontario, the Highland Clearances, and the prophecies of the Brahan Seer.
Blair was also an accomplished poet and composed a famous piece on viewing the Niagara Falls. This talk will
discuss the life of Blair, his writings in Mac-Talla, and feature readings in Gaelic with English translation.
The lecture is free of charge and will take place in the Tuning Room at the Highland Village. The lecture is one of a
series of events taking place during the Celtic Colours Festival.
For more information visit highlandvillage.ca or call 866-442-3542 (toll free).
The Highland Village Museum/An Clachan Gàidhealach is a living history museum and folk-life centre located in
Iona, Cape Breton Island, overlooking the Bras d'Or Lakes. Highland Village is a part of the Nova Scotia
Museum operated in partnership with the Nova Scotia Highland Village Society.
Bidh Luchd-ciùil Ionadail is Eadar-nàiseanta ri ’n cluinntinn aig Féis Mhàbu rè Seachdain nan
Dathan Ceilteach
Féis Mhàbu Events to Feature Local and International Talent during Celtic Colours Week
Comunn Féis Mhàbu is a Mabou-based organization whose purpose is to facilitate the progressive development of
Gaelic language and culture with many of the programmes it offers focusing on the transmission of cultural skills in
intergenerational social settings. Although based in Mabou, Féis Mhàbu programs draw participants from the
surrounding area, and in some instances, from all over Cape Breton and beyond. For over twenty years, Comunn
Féis Mhàbu has offered a wide range of workshops, programmes and events to both youth and adults. Féis Mhàbu
presents annual cultural workshops and Gaelic Song Circle each year on Thanksgiving weekend in association with
Celtic Colours International Festival and Féis Mhàbu has hosted a Celtic Colours International Festival concert every
year since 2008.
This year, Féis Mhàbu's annual Thanksgiving cultural workshops will be held at Dalbrae Academy (Route 19 Mabou)
Saturday morning, October 11th from 10:00am to 12:20pm. Workshops will be divided into the Preschool (ages 4-7)
and Youth (ages 8-18) categories. Local tradition bearers Kenneth MacKenzie, Joanne MacIntyre, Melody Cameron,
Bernard Cameron and Neil MacQuarrie will instruct workshops focusing on Gaelic language and song, fiddle, step
dancing, square dancing, percussion and more! Registration fees are $10/Workshop per participant, $20/per
participant for Day Pass or $50 for Family Pass for 3 or more children.
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On the evening of Saturday, October 11th, Féis Mhàbu will present its' annual Gaelic Song Circle in the intimate
setting of An Drochaid, Mabou's Gaelic & Historical Society Building (Route 19 Mabou) from 7:30pm to 9:30pm.
This Gaelic Song Circle features award-winning musician, singer, producer and broadcaster Mary Ann Kennedy from
Lochaber, Scotland. She has won several major awards, including the Concours Internationale de l'Harpe Celtique
and both National Mod Gold Medals. Her band, Cliar, won the all-time Best Album accolade at the inaugural Scots
Trad Music Awards, and earned her a Saltire Award. Joining Mary Ann will be Cape Breton Gaelic Singer Joanne
MacIntyre. Joanne comes from Mabou Coal Mines, Inverness County where she was raised in a culture rich
environment of Scotch music, dance and Gaelic language. Joanne will perform songs from the Cape Breton and
Inverness County Gaelic tradition. Féis Mhàbu's Gaelic Youth Singers will also share their songs and Mabou-based
musicians Melody and Derrick Cameron will perform some lively tunes on fiddle and guitar for good measure. This
is a lovely evening of songs and stories with a few tunes for good measure. Come and sing along! Tea will be served
after the song circle. Admission is $12 at the door.
On the afternoon of Saturday October 18th, Féis Mhàbu will be hosting the Celtic Colours International concert, "In
Good Hands" at St. Mary's Parish Hall at 2:00pm. This concert will bring together young players from Australia,
Scotland and Cape Breton. In 2013/2014 Celtic Colours partnered with Scottish traditional music organisation, Fèis
Rois and composer John Sommerville to create a suite of music inspired by the Hector’s crossing. Featured are five
musicians from Scotland playing alongside musicians from Nova Scotia. The Scottish musicians include John
Somerville on accordion, Chief Executive of Fèis Rois Fiona Dalgetty on fiddle, and The Mischa Macpherson Trio. The
members of this trio are Gaelic singer Mischa MacPherson, Innes White on guitar and Conal McDonagh on pipes.
The Mischa Macpherson Trio hail from the highlands and islands of Scotland and are the winners of the 2014 BBC
Radio 2 Young Folk Award. The Nova Scotia musicians are Maxim Cormier, Rachel Davis, Anita MacDonald, Mckayla
MacNeil, and Kristen Shaw. This is a very unique and historic performance, likely to only ever happen once. Also on
hand will be Féis Mhàbu's Gaelic Youth Singers. This group of young people have regularly participated in Féis
Mhàbu's "Éirich Air!" Gaelic song mentoring program. To top off the afternoon, this concert will feature Gaelic
supergroup, Dàimh. Dàimh are a 5‐piece band based in Lochaber in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland; an area
as much renowned for its scenic beauty as for its rich musical and cultural heritage. A long-established favourite at
folk festivals in Scotland, Ireland and across Europe, twice nominated for Folk Band of the Year at the Scots
Traditional Music Awards, Dàimh are also regulars on BBC television. Dàimh band member Angus MacKenzie is a
Mabou native. Angus' mother was a founder of Féis Mhàbu back in the 1990's.
Tickets for the "In Good Hands" concert can be purchased at Mabou Communications Ltd. on Route 19 Mabou
(open 9:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday) or through the Celtic Colours box office. Tickets are $25.00. The
concert is general admission.
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Bùthan-obrach Cultarach dhan Òigridh aig Féis Mhàbu 2014
Féis Mhàbu Cultural Workshops for Youth - 2014
Saturday October 11th , 10:00 AM to 12:20 PM
Dalbrae Academy – 11156 Route 19, SW Mabou, Mabou
Hosted by: Comunn Féis Mhàbu
Price: $10 / workshop; $20 day pass; $50 family pass for 3 or more children
Féis Mhàbu is offering a wide range of cultural workshops for you to choose from. Workshops will be
divided into the Preschool (ages 4-7) and Youth (ages 8-14) categories. Prominent local tradition bearers
instruct workshops focusing on Gaelic language and Gaelic song, fiddle, step dancing, square dancing,
percussion and more!
Preschool Workshops (Ages 4-7):
$10/ Workshop per participant, $20 / per participant for Day Pass or $50 for Family Pass for 3 or more
children
10:00-10:30 -- Kid's Percussion Group - Neil MacQuarrie
10:30-11:15 -- Kid's Step Dancing - Melody Cameron
11:15-12:00 -- Kid's Gaelic and Song - Bernard Cameron
12:00-12:20 -- Square Set - Melody Cameron will lead set, Kenneth MacKenzie will play fiddle
Youth Workshops (Ages 8-14):
$10/ Workshop per participant, $20 / per participant for Day Pass or $50 for Family Pass for 3 or more
children
10:00-10:30 -- Percussion Group - Neil MacQuarrie
10:30-11:15 -- Gaelic Song - Joanne MacIntyre
11:15-12:00 -- Youth Fiddle - Kenneth MacKenzie
11:15-12:00 -- Youth Dancing - Melody Cameron
11:15-12:00 -- Gaelic Music Percussion - Neil MacQuarrie
12:00-12:20 -- Square Set - Melody Cameron will lead set, Kenneth MacKenzie will play fiddle
TACHARTASAN – EVENTS
For further info on Gaelic Events in NS
see http://gaelic.novascotia.ca/events
Date
Friday,
Oct. 10
Place/
Time
Event
Creignish
9:30 pm –
12:30 am
Adult Square Dance
Andrea Beaton, violin
Contact:
Sat.
Oct. 11
Iona
2 pm
Ian Cameron ic.iancameron@gmail.com
The Highland Village Scotch Music Series - Sìol nam Pìobaire - The
Seed of the Pipers
Please join us in Highland Village’s Tuning Room, Saturday, October 11th at 2:00 PM
for a special Scotch Music presentation by Barry Shears titled
The Seed of the Pipers, an examination of traditional music and regional piping styles
in the New World Gàidhealtachd during the second half of the 20th century.
Admission is free. Tea and oatcakes will be served following questions. All welcome.
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Feuchaibh gum bidh sibh ann aig a' Chlachan!
Sìol nam Pìobaire – The Seed of the Piper
Over 80 highland pipers came to the Nova Scotia from Scotland during the
immigration period, 1773-1850. By the late 19th - early 20th century hundreds of
pipers and chanter players could be found among their descendants in settlements in
Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia and the west coast of Newfoundland. Providing
dance music was the main function of these musicians and, in many cases these
pipers represented a regional form of bagpipe playing which differed from area to
area. In the mid-twentieth century the number of traditionally trained pipers in the
region had shrunk considerably. By the time any serious research could be conducted
in the 1980s on topics such as repertory, technique and performance style, there
were only a handful of these tradition bearers left. This lecture will outline the
changing role of the highland piper in Nova Scotia society in the 20th century and
examine the differences of this once diverse musical tradition.
Oct. 14
Oct. 14
Iona
2 pm
Celtic Colours Ceilidh
Iona
4:30 pm
Annual Joe Neil MacNeil Memorial Lecture
The Highland Village céilidh, or house visit, features the social and cultural
expressions of our Gaelic ancestors. Join us for songs, stories and music, or
just a chance to chat about the traditions and history of Nova Scotia’s Gaels.
Regular museum rates apply.
Join us in the Highland Village Tuning Room, Iona, October 14,at 4:30 PM for the
annual Joe Neil MacNeil Memorial Lecture with John Alex MacPherson and Dr.
Michael Likletter, St. F.X. Celtic Department. Jointly presenting this annual
premier lecture, their collaboration has brought forward the Cape Breton
University publication of Fògradh, Fàisneachd, Filidheachd (Parting, Prophecy,
Poetry), a selection of Rev. Duncan Black Blair writings that appeared in the
Sydney based Gaelic newspaper Mac-Talla. Joe Neil MacNeil, of Middle Cape,
was one of Gaeldom’s last great story tellers. Many of his tales and stories
appear in his book Sgeul gu Latha(Tales Til Dawn), edited by Dr. John Shaw. All
welcome. Admission is free. Tea and oatcakes served following questions.
Feuchaibh gum bidh sibh ann aig a’ Chlachan!
The Reverend Duncan Black Blair came to Nova Scotia from Scotland in 1846.
Blair published prolifically in newspapers of his time, including Cape Breton’s
famous all-Gaelic Mac-Talla, on items such as emigrating from Scotland,
traveling around the Maritimes and Ontario, the Highland Clearances, and the
prophecies of the Brahan Seer. He was also an accomplished poet and composed
a famous piece on viewing the Niagara Falls. This talk will discuss the life of Blair,
his writings in Mac-Talla, and feature readings in Gaelic with English
translation.
Oct. 15
Iona
2 pm
Milling Frolic
Fresh webs of wool taken from the loom and awaiting tailoring as blankets
and clothing required pre-shrinking. The Gaels way to make the cloth ready
for home use was to wet it, beat it and make a time of it while communally
singing choral songs in rhythm during the milling frolic. Come and join us at
the table for songs and friendly conversation at the Highland Village milling
frolic. Regular museum rates apply.
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Oct. 15
Oct. 16
Iona
1-4 pm
“Chun A’ Rubha”, a Gaelic tour Come join us for “Chun A’ Rubha”, a Gaelic tour and afternoon srubag (tea).
Jim Watson will lead us on a walk through the eras of Gaelic Nova Scotia
ending with tea, stories, and songs. This is an immersion event and will be
held entirely through the medium of Gaelic. Space is limited and preregistration is required. Museum admission charges apply. (1:00-4:00 pm).
Call to book a spot - 902-725-2272.
Iona
2-4 pm
Special Storytelling Tour & Celtic Colours Traditional Céilidh
Iona
11:00 am
Marag Making Workshop
Oct. 17
Iona
1-3 pm
Am Breacan Bòidheach Fàsanta: Mary’s Bonny Plaid - Natural Dye
Workshop
Using natural dyes to add colour to the cloth and yarns that pioneer women
made was an important aspect of 19th century life. If you have ever
wondered what materials were used to produce such a wide range of hues,
please join us for an afternoon of wool dying. Participants will learn about
various dyeing techniques and will be able to dip a few skeins of their own.
Pre-registration required. Workshop is open to all ages. Admission is $20.
Oct. 17
Iona
2 pm
Gaelic Song Workshop
Mischa Macpherson of Scotland leads this demonstration and talk of Gaelic
songs. Regular museum admission charges apply. Oct. 17
Iona
7:30 pm
Celtic Colours Concert in the Malagawatch Church
Tonight will be a great reunion of friends from the Western side of the Island
here in the wee church on the hill. Tickets: $25, General Admission
Creignish
9:30 pm –
12:30 am
Adult Square Dance
Glenn Graham, violin
Oct. 16
Friday,
Oct. 17
Come join us for a special storytelling tour of the Highland Village. This
special folklife experience will give you insight into the lives and stories of
Nova Scotia Gaels. Reservations required. Museum admission charges apply.
Marag Gheal/White pudding has long been a favourite food of the Gaels. It
remains relished to the present. Animators will guide visitors in preparing
this traditional dish. Space is limited and pre-registration is required.
(11:00am) Admission is $20.00 Call to book a spot - 902-725-2272.
Contact:
Oct. 24-26
Iona
6:30 – 9 pm
Ian Cameron ic.iancameron@gmail.com
Oidhche nam Bòcan/Night of the Spooks
Come and celebrate Halloween with a special evening tour of the Highland
Village. There will be evening tours by lamplight, complete with storytelling,
skits and special effects. This will be followed by a storytelling session with
fuarag, oatcakes, tea & treats. This is a family activity enjoyed by all. Prepaid
reservations are required. No refunds or discounts. Cost: $12 per adult, $28
per family, or $5 per student. Call (902) 725-2272 for tickets. Book early!
Iomradh-Sùileachaidh nam Meadhannan - Media Monitoring Report
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From Inverness Oran, Oct. 8, 2014
Iomradh-Sùileachaidh nam Meadhannan - Media Monitoring Report
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Bidh Seòlaidhean do Phost-dealain Iomairtean na Gàidhlig ag atharrachadh an ceartair
Changes to Gaelic Affairs email addresses coming soon
Communications Nova Scotia and Internal Services – CIO Branch are co-sponsoring an
initiative to introduce a new government email address format.
On October 23, all government email addresses will change to the format
firstname.lastname@novascotia.ca aligning with the province’s brand novascotia.ca. The current government email addresses will continue to remain valid
going forward to minimize disruptions.
Rùn: ’S e rùn OIG a bhith ag obair le muinntir na h-Albann Nuaidh ann a’ leasachadh is brosnachadh na Gàidhlig, cànain ’s cultar, ’s a’ Mhòir-roinn.
Àicheadh: Tha Iomairtean na Gàidhlig ag ullachadh na h-aithisg seo an aon ghnothach fiosrachadh a sgaoileadh. Chan eil am fiosrachadh ’s na
ceanglaichean ri’m faighinn ’s an aithisg seo ach ’nan goireasan; ’s chan eil Riaghaltas na h-Albann Nuaidh a’ cur aonta ris na tha innte, ris na
poileasaidhean, no ris na bathair, no ri ceanglaichean do làraichean-lìn air an taobh a-muigh. Chan eil ceannas aig Oifis Iomairtean na Gàidhlig air an
fhiosrachadh seo no air na ceanglaichean do làraichean-lìn air an taobh a-muigh; agus chan eil an Oifis an urra ris a’ chinnteachd, ris an dligheachd,
no ris a tha am broinn an fhiosrachaidh ’s an aithisg seo, no ri na bhitheas de cheanglaichean a thig ásda. Ma chuireas duine gu feum am fiosrachadh
’s na ceanglaichean ’s an aithisg seo, nì e sin air a cheann fhéin. Cuiribh fios chun nan làraichean-lìn an taobh a-muigh ma bhios ceistean agaibh air
na th’annta.
MISSION: The mission of the Gaelic Affairs is to work with Nova Scotians in the development and promotion of Gaelic language and culture in the
Province. DISCLAIMER: Gaelic Affairs provides this report for informational purposes only. The information and links contained in this report, or
available via this report, are provided solely as a convenience and do not constitute an endorsement by the Government of Nova Scotia of the
content, policies or products of the external linked sites. Gaelic Affairs does not control the information provided or the external linked sites, and is not
responsible for the accuracy, legality, or content of the information in the report, the external linked sites or for that of subsequent links. Those using
the information in this report or links do so at their own risk. Contact the external sites for answers to questions regarding content.
BUIN GÀIDHLIG na h-ALBANN NUAIDHE – ORIGINS OF NOVA SCOTIA GAELIC
'S ann an Gàidhlig na h-Albann a tha buin Gàidhlig na h-Albann Nuaidhe agus mar Ghàidhlig na h-Éireann agus
Ghàidhlig Mhanainn, tha i 'na ball de mheur teaghlach nan cànainean Ceilteach ris an canar 'Goidelic' (Gàidhlig). Tha
Gàidhlig na h-Albann Nuaidhe air a bhith 'ga bruidhinn anns a' Roinn againn bho chionn co dhiùbh 1773. Lìonmhor
mar a tha i ann an òrain, ceòl dualchasach na fìdhle 's na pìoba, dannsa-ceumaidh, seanchas, cleachdaidhean is
creideamh, tha a' Ghàidhlig a' cur ri iomadachd chultarach, shòisealta, oideachail, is eaconomach co-chomann na hAlbann Nuaidhe.
Nova Scotia Gaelic has its origins in Scottish Gaelic and, like Irish Gaelic and Manx, is a branch of the family of Celtic
languages. It has been spoken in our province since at least 1773 and is rich in cultural expression through song,
Bun is Bàrr: Prógram a bhios a’ cur luchd-comhairle na Gàidhlig cuide ri luchd-ionnsachaidh ùr
Bun is Barr: Program pairs Gaelic mentors with new learners
Faigh eòlas air na bhuineas dhan Ghàidhlig ann an Antaiginis
Experience Gaelic Antigonish
Iomradh-Sùileachaidh nam Meadhannan - Media Monitoring Report
Tha Móran aig a’ Chlachan Ghàidhealach ri Thairgsinn rè Féis nan Dathan Ceilteach
Highland Village Has Much to Offer During Celtic Colours Festival
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