BRAEMAR

Scottish & Irish Folk Music

Biography

Based in Melbourne, Braemar, consisting of Eddie Lewis and Marc de Rijk, is undoubtedly one of Australia’s best Celtic duos delighting audiences around the country with an impressive performance resumé of classic Scottish and Irish songs.  The duo is renowned for lavish harmonies and for its “passionate commitment  …..   to continuing the tradition of the Celtic diaspora”. (Source: www.tradandnow.com)

At the Beechworth Celtic Festival in November 2007, Braemar mesmerised full houses at the Town Hall for two performances of **‘Lochaber No More’, a history of the Jacobite rebellions and the aftermath told in narrative and song.  Reflecting the outstanding performance, the show received a standing ovation on each occasion and there ‘was hardly a dry eye in the house’ such was the stirring of patriotic raw emotion.  The Scottish Australian Heritage Council is eager to support a performance of the show in Sydney in the near future and Braemar anticipates **‘Lochaber No More’ will be performed at Folk and Celtic festivals throughout the nation in 2008/9.

Braemar was formed in early 2004 and since then has performed everywhere from the Australian Celtic Festival at Glen Innes to the pre-match national anthem slot at a Wallabies v Scotland Rugby Union Test to entertaining Prince Edward during the Melbourne Commonwealth Games.  The duo receives critical acclaim from audiences and peers alike – in 2007, Braemar received a standing ovation for a performance at the Kapunda Celtic Festival – a member of the organising committee commented that such an ovation was a first for that festival, the longest running Celtic festival in Australia.

The duo prides itself that Braemar was approached to support the City of Glasgow’s bid for the 2014 Commonwealth Games and provided entertainment at numerous civic occasions – the bid was successful and even the Lord Provost of Glasgow, Liz Cameron, might agree that Braemar had some small part to play in Glasgow’s victory!

Braemar’s albums, Beirt Leaids (2004) and Eire and Alba, Songs of the Gael (2006) were exceptionally well received by fans and critics alike.  The pair plans to record a ‘theme’ album of **‘Lochaber No More’ later in 2008 – watch this space.

Traditional music – a new take on a classic story - contemporary sound, look and style – for what more could you ask?    “.. the tradition is in the safe hands of Braemar, and long may it continue.”  (Source: www.tradandnow.com)

**‘Lochaber No More’ was performed at La Trobe University, Bundoora Campus in Melbourne in October 2007 and at the Beechworth Celtic Festival in November 2007

“Highlight for us, and judging by the crowds in the hall and their standing ovation, the highlight for many others as well, was “Lochaber No More …….”

“Excellent.  Well done!!  Wonderful production of a very sad time for us Scots!  NORMA McPHERSON, RADIO PORT PHILLIP (3RPP)

“Opening sequence was haunting and fantastic – you guys seem to be in perfect harmony to me – great to listen to.  Acoustic guitars sounded great as did all other instruments.  Singing was also great, narration was perfect – clear and meaningful.  TONY BURROWS.

2004 - 2007 performances: