Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1948 in Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Canada

Genre

:

Vocal

 

Allister MacGillivray is a renowned Canadian composer, singer, and songwriter who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on January 17, 1948, in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, MacGillivray grew up in a family of musicians. His father, John Allan MacGillivray, was a fiddler, and his mother, Mary Catherine MacGillivray, was a pianist. MacGillivray's early exposure to music and his family's musical background played a significant role in shaping his musical career. MacGillivray began his musical journey at a young age, learning to play the guitar and piano. He was also a member of the St. Anne's Gaelic Choir, where he developed his love for traditional Scottish music. MacGillivray's passion for music led him to pursue a degree in music education at St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish, Nova Scotia. After completing his degree, he taught music in various schools in Nova Scotia. MacGillivray's career as a composer began in the 1970s when he started writing songs and music for theatre productions. His first major work was the musical play "The Glace Bay Miner's Museum," which was based on the life of his mother and her experiences growing up in a coal-mining town. The play was a huge success and was later adapted into a film, which was released in 1995. MacGillivray's music is deeply rooted in his Scottish heritage and often incorporates traditional Scottish melodies and rhythms. His compositions are known for their emotional depth and powerful storytelling. Some of his most notable works include "Song for the Mira," "Away from the Roll of the Sea," and "The Island." "Song for the Mira" is one of MacGillivray's most popular compositions and has become a Canadian folk classic. The song was written in 1973 and is a tribute to the Mira River in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. The song's simple melody and heartfelt lyrics have made it a favorite among Canadians and have earned MacGillivray numerous awards and accolades. "Away from the Roll of the Sea" is another of MacGillivray's most famous compositions. The song was written in 1979 and is based on a poem by Scottish poet Charles Murray. The song tells the story of a young Scottish sailor who leaves his home to seek his fortune at sea. The song's haunting melody and poignant lyrics have made it a favorite among choirs and vocal groups around the world. "The Island" is a musical play that was written by MacGillivray in 1985. The play tells the story of a young woman who returns to her ancestral home on Cape Breton Island and discovers the rich history and culture of her Scottish ancestors. The play's music and lyrics are a celebration of Scottish heritage and have earned MacGillivray critical acclaim and numerous awards. MacGillivray's contributions to the world of classical music have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the Order of Canada, the highest civilian honor in Canada. He has also been inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of Fame. In addition to his work as a composer, MacGillivray is also an accomplished singer and performer. He has released several albums of his own music and has performed at numerous festivals and concerts around the world. In conclusion, Allister MacGillivray is a talented and accomplished composer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music.

More....