Roy Williamson's Bouzouki - Flower of Scotland

Aim

To buy the instrument played in The Corries' first public performance of 'Flower of Scotland' in 1968 to donate to musical instrument museum

30 years ago, in August 1990, Roy Williamson of Scotland's well-loved folk duo, The Corries, sadly died. Roy wrote 'Flower of Scotland', which has since been adopted by many as the Scottish national anthem.

As part of his legacy, in 1991, Roy's vast collection of instruments was auctioned off in his hometown of Forres, Morayshire, with the proceeds donated to charity.

Included in the auction was his bouzouki, (a long-necked lute originally from Greece), which was used for the very first televised performance of 'Flower of Scotland' in 1968. (See video link above). 




The opportunity has arisen to acquire this significant instrument for the nation from a private owner to allow it be donated to the renowned Musical Instrument Collection at the University of Edinburgh, where it will be put on public display as space allows, alongside a wide range of historically important instruments.


In historical terms, the instrument is one of the very first bouzoukis to be used in traditional music in Scotland, prior to the Celtic music revival which saw flat-backed bouzoukis / octave mandolins become popular in Irish and Scottish music.



The funds raised will be used for a straight purchase of the instrument and subsequent donation of the bouzouki to the museum.

The crowdfunding project is organised by musician, singer and folklorist (and bouzouki player!) Steve Byrne of the band Malinky.

This project successfully funded on 21st August 2020