Role

:

Composer

Period

:

Romantic

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Vocal

 

Marjory Kennedy-Fraser was a Scottish composer, singer, and collector of traditional Scottish music. She was born on October 7, 1857, in Perth, Scotland, to a family of musicians. Her father, William Kennedy, was a composer and conductor, and her mother, Marjory Aitken, was a singer and pianist. Marjory Kennedy-Fraser showed an early interest in music and began studying piano and singing at a young age. In 1875, Marjory Kennedy-Fraser moved to London to study music at the Royal Academy of Music. She studied under renowned composers such as George Alexander Macfarren and Arthur Sullivan. During her time at the academy, she won several awards for her compositions and performances. After completing her studies, Marjory Kennedy-Fraser returned to Scotland and began collecting traditional Scottish songs. She traveled throughout the country, recording and transcribing songs from local singers. She also collaborated with the Scottish poet and folklorist, William Sharp, who wrote under the pseudonym Fiona Macleod. Together, they published several collections of Scottish songs and poetry, including "Songs of the Hebrides" and "The Silver Bough." Marjory Kennedy-Fraser's compositions were heavily influenced by traditional Scottish music. She often incorporated Scottish folk melodies and themes into her works. Her most famous composition is "An Eriskay Love Lilt," which is based on a traditional Scottish song. The piece became popular after it was featured in the 1945 film "I Know Where I'm Going!" In addition to her compositions, Marjory Kennedy-Fraser was also a renowned singer. She performed in concerts throughout Scotland and England, often accompanied by her husband, the pianist and composer, John Fraser. She was known for her powerful voice and her ability to convey the emotion and meaning of traditional Scottish songs. Marjory Kennedy-Fraser's contributions to Scottish music were recognized during her lifetime. In 1923, she was awarded the OBE (Order of the British Empire) for her services to music. She continued to collect and publish Scottish songs until her death on March 14, 1930, in London. Today, Marjory Kennedy-Fraser is remembered as one of the most important figures in the preservation and promotion of traditional Scottish music. Her compositions and collections of Scottish songs continue to be performed and studied by musicians and scholars around the world.

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