It is the music, and specifically Cape Breton Fiddling, that leads the way in the resurgence of Celtic culture in Nova Scotia “Although pianos, bagpipes and the occasional guitar each contribute to Cape Breton’s signature sound, fiddles clearly dominate and folks continue to play them in a way their kilted ancestors would recognise. However it is the musical traditions of Cape Breton that moves from strength to strength. The Gaelic language, once spoken by an estimated 100,000 transplanted Scots and their descendents in Nova Scotia, is on a long road to revival. Thus, the musical talent, fame and success has come by her “honestly”. In a biographical sketch of her uncle Buddy written by Paul MacDonald it was noted that Natalie’s grandmother was accomplished at lilting, a form of traditional singing common to the Gaelic speaking areas of Ireland and Scotland, and would sing these magical songs for her family in her home. She is also Cape Breton musical royalty the niece of the legendary Buddy MacMaster, married to Donnell Leahy of the award winning Leahy Family Band and himself a fiddler, and cousin to members of the MacIsaac family who boast several successful fiddlers. MacMaster is more than the take-away from her image of a polished, beautiful super star of popular Celtic culture. Transceltic are honoured to have had the opportunity to interview Natalie MacMaster who, with two Grammy nominations, numerous music awards and multiple Gold Albums, is an internationally renowned fiddler in the forefront of the revival of Scots Gaelic musical traditions of Cape Breton. Known for its fiercely individualistic musical style it is a dynamic musical genre that is changing with the generations of new fiddlers as they join the ranks. Cape Breton Fiddling, internationally renowned as a distinctive musical genre, is enjoying immense commercial success. The musical traditions that flourish in the Cape Breton region of this Maritime province are most closely associated with the Fiddle. The legacy of immigration in the 1800's from Scotland to the Canadian province of Nova Scotia is evidenced in the strength of the cultural traditions that survive and which today are experiencing a renaissance.
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