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Strathspey
A famous strathspey from the 1800s |
A strathspey is a slower stylised version of the reel, thought to be 19th century in origin. It's most influencial supporter was probably the musician Scott Skinner, who recorded many fine versions of the form when sound recording was in its infancy.
In this short audio clip you can hear Birtley musician Jack Elliott playing the Strathspey 'Brochan Tanna' on the Jaws Harp. The Gaelic name for this tune translates as 'thin porridge'. The Jaws Harp produces its peculiar twanging tone by vibrating a thin strip of sprung steel clenched between the player's teeth. The open mouth cavity acts as a resonator. Changes in the embouchure produce different tones.
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