Harris performers return with medals from the Mòd

The Sir E Scott School choirs enjoyed a busy week at the Royal National Mòd in Fort William, which saw members competing in choral, solo singing, poetry and instrumental competitions.

Three pupils won gold medals. Cailean MacLeod was first in Solo Singing Boys P4. Seumas Alasdair MacLeod won first and the prestigious Silver Kilt Pin in the 13-15 Solo traditional singing (boys) category, and Rosie Morrison won first prize for her clarsach performance in the Intermediate 1 (Grade 2-3) category.

Isla Scott, a former pupil, won the Alan Forrester Trophy for writing a New Gaelic Song. Seumas MacLeod also won bronze for his solo singing (prescribed) performance and there were singing medals for senior choir members Flora Scott and Heather MacDougall and junior choir members Cara Mackenzie and Sophia MacKenzie.

In poetry recitation (Bàrdachd) there were medals for Emily King, Cailean MacLeod and Heather, Grace and Flora MacDougall. Later in the week, Miryam Mocanu won the Flora and overall Highland Dancing trophy in her category.

Both senior and junior choirs impressed the judges, with the senior choir placing second in three of their closely-contested competitions.

“I am so proud of both of our choirs,” said conductor Jayne MacDonald. “The children have worked hard preparing and they did a great job on stage and off. It was good to see such a high standard of competition and for our young people to be a part of this incredible national event.”

A post Mòd concert was held at Sir E Scott School, giving participants an opportunity to perform again to home supporters. More than £440 was raised.

The cost of travel and accommodation for the choirs is met largely through fundraising and the Sir E Scott Mòd Parents committee wish to thank all the local businesses and individuals who support their events and enable the children to participate in this experience.