Scottish Music

Music is an art form that has existed since prehistoric times and has played a significant role in human society since then. Music is usually created using purpose built musical instruments such as grand pianos, although it is possible to create music using anything which can make sound. There are many different types and genres of music that exist and there are significant variations in music from different cultures and period of history. Also the musical instruments used by different people at different points in history have been subject to a huge amount of variation themselves. There are many different reasons why people did and still do create music, although it is primarily as a form of entertainment. Music also has a significantly spiritual role in many cultures and it is a fundamental aspect of many religions.

Today music still plays a very important role in Scottish society and it is a principle form of entertainment for many people. A cèilidh (pronounced kay-lee) is a traditional Scottish dance set to music that is often held to mark special occasions or social gatherings within the community. Some of the dances are more complex than others, meaning participation is not just the exclusive reserve of the young. Then there are the most famous national instrument of all - the bagpipes. Love them or hate them, no single instrument is as intertwined with a national identity as much as the bagpipe, despite historical evidence to suggest they were first developed in Roman Europe.