Cuairt-litir Geamhradh 2017/18 by Sabhal Mòr Ostaig

G E A M H R A D H 2 017 W I N T E R

CUAIRT-LITIR|NEWSLETTER

FACAL-TOISICH BHON PHRIONNSAPAL Tha a’ Chuairtlitir seo a’ nochdadh aon uair eile cho ioma-taobhach is cho eadarnàiseanta sa tha obair an t-Sabhail. Tha an taobh eadar-nàiseanta ri fhaicinn sna h-earrannan bho oileanaich air astar ann am Virginia agus Minnesota, san naidheachd mun cheangal fhoirmeil leis a’ Cholaiste Ghàidhlig ann an Ceap Breatainn agus sna cunntasan mun Fhèis Phan-Cheilteach ann an Èirinn is mun Fhèisciùil ann am Mallorca san do ghabh buidheann bhon Cholaiste pàirt. Tha ceanglaichean gu sònraichte làidir againn ri ar dàimhean Ceilteach ann an Èirinn le iomlaid oileanach gach bliadhna le oilthighean sa Phoblachd, cùrsaichean Gàidhlig/Gaeilge air an cumail gu cunbhalach an seo agus òraidichean is luchdrannsachaidh a-null is a-nall eadar an dà dhùthaich. Tha sinn cuideachd air a bhith sealbhach gu bheil dà bhan-Èireannach air a bhith air Bòrd an t-Sabhail fad deich bliadhna. ’S iadsan an t-Oll Máire Ní Annracháin agus Éadain Ní Mháille. Bha Éadain na Cathraiche air a’ Bhòrd san dà bhliadhna mu dheireadh agus bha Máire na cathraiche air Comataidh Acadaimigeach a’ Bhùird. Chithear farsainneachd obair an t-Sabhail anns na h-aithrisean mun Cheumnachd, mu na trì òraidean sònraichte, mun fharpais bhàrdachd bhliadhnail, mun choobrachadh le Taigh Chearsabhagh, mu na tha tachairt aig Stiùidio Ostaig, mun obair ealain agus mun chiad dà thaigh ann an leasachadh Baile na Cille Bige. Tha e follaiseach cuideachd sna h-earrannan aig oileanaich a’ chùrsa TBh agus a’ chùrsa BA ùr (le Urram) ann an Gàidhlig is Foghlam. Bha tè eile a bha air a’ Bhòrdstiùiridh, Cairistìona Walker, gu mòr an sàs san iomairt shoirbheachail gus inbhe ionad treànaidh luchd-teagaisg a chosnadh dhan Cholaiste. Tha sinn fada an comain Éadain, Máire is Cairistìona airson na rinn iad thar nam bliadhnaichean gus amasan an t-Sabhail a thoirt gu buil.

FOREWORD FROM THE PRINCIPAL This newsletter once again demonstrates how diverse and international the operations of Sabhal Mòr are. The international dimension is manifest in the pen-portraits of the distance learners from Virginia and Minnesota, in the item about the formal link with the Gaelic College in Cape Breton and in the accounts of the Pan-Celtic Festival in Ireland and of the Music festival in Mallorca in which a group from the College participated. We have especially strong links with our Celtic cousins in Ireland through annual student exchanges with universities in the Republic, Gaelic/Gaeilge courses held here regularly and a two-way flow of lecturers and researchers. We have also been fortunate to have had two members from Ireland serving on our Board of Directors for ten years. They are Professor Máire Ní Annracháin and Aideen Ní Mháille. Aideen was Board Chair for the past two years and Maire chaired the Board’s Academic Committee. The breadth of the College’s work can be seen in the accounts of the Graduation, the three special lectures, the annual poetry competition, the collaboration with Taigh Chearsabhagh, productions in Studio Ostaig, the arts activities and the first two houses in the the Kilbeg Village development. It is also apparent in the contributions by students on the TV course and the new BA (Hons) course in Gaelic and Education. Another outgoing member of the Board of Directors, Christina Walker, was deeply involved in the successful initiative to secure teacher education institution status for the College. We are greatly indebted to Aideen, Máire and Christina for all they did over the years to enable Sabhal Mòr to fulfil its mission.

Prionnsapal - An t-Oll Boyd Robasdan

ÒRAID AN T-SABHAIL ’S i a’ bhana-sheinneadair is neach-ciùil ainmeil, Julie Fowlis à Uibhist a Tuath, a thug seachad Òraid an t-Sabhail am-bliadhna leis an tiotal, ‘Ceòl na h-Iarmailt’. Thug Julie, a tha na ceumnaiche de Shabhal Mòr Ostaig agus na h-Ollamh Urramach de dh’ Oilthigh na Gàidhealtachd is nan Eilean, seachad an 21mh Òraid an t-Sabhail, far an do bhruidhinn i air mar as urrainn do cheòl, beul-aithris agus bàrdachd a bhith mar mheadhan gus an ceangal, no fiù ’s an sgaradh, eadar daoine agus an tìr is an iarmailt a dhaingneachadh. A’ bruidhinn air an òraid aice, thuirt Julie: “’S e fìor fhosgladh sùla a bh’ ann dhomh fhèin a thaobh iarmailt na Gàidhealtachd agus thug e orm beachdachadh air an dàimh eadar mi fhèin agus an àrainneachd anns a bheil mi a’ fuireach agus ciamar as urrainn do cheòl, beul-aithris agus bàrdachd an ceangal - no fiù ’s an sgaradh eadar duine agus cruth na tìre a dhaingneachadh. Mar thoradh air seo tha mi air barrachd rannsachaidh a dhèanamh air ceòl leithid pròiseact ioma-chuspaireil air sgeulachdan, òrain agus mapadh cultarail ann an sgìre Loch Nis agus am pròiseact com-pàirteach ùr, cuide ri Éamon Doorley, Zoë Conway agus John Mc Intyre, a tha ag amas air ceòl a chruthachadh a chuireamaid ri seann bhàrdachd agus nuadh-bhàrdachd na Gàidhlig.”

Thuirt Prionnsapal Shabhal Mòr Ostaig, an t-Ollamh Boyd Robasdan: “Tha mi air leth toilichte gur e tè a bha na h-oileanach aig an t-Sabhal a bha a’ liubhairt òraid na bliadhna seo. Tha Julie Fowlis air cliù a chosnadh dhi fhèin mar sheinneadair agus neachciùil barraichte a tha air dualchas na Gàidhlig a thaisbeanadh do luchd-èisteachd air feadh an t-saoghail. Tha sinne moiteil aiste agus às an obair ionmholta a tha i a’ dèanamh mar riochdaire is mar thosgaire ar cànain is ar cultair.” ’S e seinneadair cliùiteach a th’ ann an Julie Fowlis a tha air iomadh duais ciùil a chosnadh. Tha a togail ann an Uibhist a Tuath air buaidh mhòr a thoirt air a cuid ciùil. Choisinn i àite air a’ gheàrrliosta airson ‘Seinneadair Traidiseanta na Bliadhna’ aig Duaisean Ceòl Traidiseanta BBC Radio 2 ann an 2015, agus ‘An Neachciùil as Fheàrr’ aig Duaisean Ciùil na Cruinne ann an 2015. Tha Julie air a cuid ciùil a thaisbeanadh air feadh an t-saoghail, eadar tallachan-baile na Gàidhealtachd agus an t-àrd-ùrlar ann an New York, Philharmonie de Paris agus An Taigh-chluiche Globe ann an Lunnainn. O chionn ghoirid sheinn Julie aig a’ Festival of Voice ann an Cardiff agus aig a’ World Festival of Sacred Music ann am Fez, Morocco.

DEALBHAN / CAPTIONS 1. Julie Fowlis 2. Zoë Conway, John Mc Intyre, Julie Fowlis agus Éamon Doorley

3. Éamon Doorley, Julie Fowlis, Zoë Conway agus John Mc Intyre 4. John Mc Intyre

ANNUAL LECTURE This year’s Sabhal Mòr Ostaig Lecture was given by internationallyrenowned Gaelic singer and musician Julie Fowlis from North Uist. Julie, an Honorary Fellow of the University of the Highlands and Islands and Sabhal Mòr Alumni, delivered the 21st Annual Lecture, titled ‘Playing the Skyline’, where she spoke of how music, story and poetry can strengthen people’s sense of connection with, or at times separation from, the landscape. Speaking afterwards, Julie said: “This project opened my eyes to the mainland Highland skylines around me and forced me to consider my own relationship with the landscape in which I now live, and how music, story and poetry can reinforce one’s sense of connection to - or indeed disconnect from - a physical landscape. This has led me to further musical exploration, including a multi-faceted project investigating local stories, song and cultural mapping around Loch Ness and to this new collaborative project, with Éamon Doorley, Zoë Conway and John Mc Intyre, aimed at creating new music for existing Gaelic poetry, old and new.” Sabhal Mòr Ostaig’s Principal, Professor Boyd Robertson, said: “I am delighted that this year’s lecture was delivered by a former Sabhal Mòr student. Julie Fowlis has won acclaim as a singer and musician par excellence and has showcased her Gaelic heritage to DEALBHAN / CAPTIONS 5. Zoë Conway, John Mc Intyre, Éamon Doorley agus Julie Fowlis

audiences worldwide. We are proud of her and of the sterling work she does as a representative of, and ambassador for, our language and culture.” Julie Fowlis is a multi-award winning singer who is deeply influenced by her early upbringing in North Uist. Nominated as ‘Folk Singer of the Year’ at the 2015 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, and ‘Best Artist’ at the Songlines World Music Awards 2015, Julie has graced stages around the world: from village halls in the Highlands to stages in New York, The Philharmonie de Paris and Shakespeare’s Globe in London. Recent performances have included the worldclass Festival of Voice in Cardiff and the World Festival of Sacred Music in Fez, Morocco.

THIS PROJECT OPENED MY EYES TO THE MAINLAND HIGHLAND SKYLINES AROUND ME AND FORCED ME TO CONSIDER MY OWN RELATIONSHIP WITH THE LANDSCAPE...

A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY

“THA SINN AIR AR DÒIGH GLAN MAR THEAGHLACH GU BHEIL SINN AIR AON DE NA TAIGHEAN ÙRA SEO FHAIGHINN AIG SABHAL MÒR OSTAIG TRON SGEAMA MÀL IS CEANNACH AIG URRAS TAIGHEADAIS COIMHEARSNACHDAN BEAGA NA GÀIDHEALTACHD.”

Graeme, Laura agus Eòghainn MacFhraing/Rankin

Mick, Sandra, Freya, Erin agus Innes MacNèill/MacNeil

Taighean ùra air Rathad MhicGuaire

New houses at Kilbeg now complete

Thàinig crìoch o chionn ghoirid air an obair togail air a’ chiad dà thaigh ùr aig a’ Chill Bhig. Chaidh an cur suas ann an compàirteachais ri Urras Taigheadais nan Coimhearsnachdan Beaga air Ghàidhealtachd (Highland Small Communities Housing Trust) agus Comhairle na Gàidhealtachd, agus chaidh an t-sràid ùr, Rathad MhicGuaire, ainmeachadh air Donnchadh MacGuaire a bha na chathraiche air Bòrd-stiùiridh an t-Sabhail sna tràth làithean. Tha e na adhbhar toileachais mòr gu bheil a' chiad dà theaghlach air gluasad a-staigh agus a’ fàs cofhurtail nan dachaighean ùra - Mick is Sandra MacNèill len triùir chloinne, agus Graeme agus Laura MacFhraing le leanabh beag.

Construction work on the first two houses to be built in Kilbeg has recently been completed. The houses were built in partnership with the Highlands Small Communities Housing Trust (HSCHT) and Highland Council, and the new street, Rathad MhicGuaire, has been named after Duncan MacQuarrie who was Chairman of the Board of Directors at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig in the early days. It is with great pleasure that we can announce the first two families have now moved in and are settling into their new homes – Mick and Sandra MacNeil and their three children, and Graeme and Laura Rankin and their baby.

Bidh fosgladh oifigeil le Ministear an Riaghaltais air a chumail sa bhliadhn’ ùr, agus tha a’ Cholaiste a-nis a’ coimhead air adhart ris an ath ìre de thaigheadais le measgachadh de thaighean rin ceannach, flataichean air mhàl agus làraichean-taighe. Tha sinn ag amas cuideachd air seann daoine aig a bheil ùidh ann an taighean ùra a tha nas fhreagarraiche dha na feumalachdan aca fhèin. Bidh flataichean ri fhaighinn air mhàl agus aonad no dhà airson gnìomhachais cuideachd. Bhiodh e uabhasach feumail faighinn a-mach gu neo-fhoirmeil a bheil seann daoine san sgìre aig am biodh ùidh ann an sgeama mar seo. Chan e cuspair àbhaisteach a th' ann ann an còmhradh mar sin, ma tha beachdan agaibhse, cuiribh fios gu Nicola NicThòmais aig nnt. smo@uhi.ac.uk. Tha cuideachd Comann na Cille Bige ga chur air dòigh an-dràsta le maoineachadh airson cuideachadh le ‘Comas, Cleachdadh agus Cothrom’ a thaobh a’ chànain. Bidh an sgeama seo fosgailte dhan a h-uile duine a bhios a’ taghadh tighinn a dh’fhuireach sa bhaile bhrosnachail ùr.

An official opening by a Government Minister will take place in the New Year, and the College is now looking forward to the next stage of housing development with a mix of houses to buy, flats to rent and building plots. We are also aiming to provide new homes for elderly people that would better suit their needs and it would be very helpful to hear, unofficially, if there are any elderly residents in the area who might be interested in such a scheme. If anyone would like to make such a suggestion, they can contact Nicola Thomson on nnt.smo@uhi.ac.uk. Also the Kilbeg Society is currently being established with funding to help with ‘Ability, Use and Opportunity’ as regards the language. This scheme will be open to everyone who chooses to come and live in this exciting new village.

Òraid Chuimhneachaidh Shir Iain Noble

Sir Iain Noble Memorial Lecture

Chaidh an t-siathamh Òraid Chuimhneachaidh air Sir Iain Nobail a thoirt seachad leis a’ Mhorair Mhinginis, Ruaraidh Iain MacLeòid, aig Sabhal Mòr Ostaig air Dimàirt 14 Samhain agus b’ e an cuspair a bh’ aige, “Smuaintean air Eachdraidh Lagh an Fhearainn”.

The sixth Sir Iain Noble Memorial Lecture was delivered by Lord Minginish, Roddy John MacLeod, on Tuesday 14 November at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig where he gave a detailed and fascinating talk on crofting legislation, and made particular reference to the work of Fearann Eilean Iarmain.

Chaidh an òraid a stèidheachadh le Sabhal Mòr Ostaig agus Urras an Eilein, dà bhuidheann aig an robh dlùth cheangal le Sir Iain fad iomadh bliadhna, mar chuimhneachan air an obair mhòr a rinn e don Cholaiste, don sgìre agus don Ghàidhlig. As dèidh dha an òraid a lìbhrigeadh, thuirt am Morair Minginis, Ruaraidh Iain MacLeòid: “Bha e na urram dhòmhsa gun deach iarraidh orm Òraid Chuimhneachaidh Iain a thoirt seachad. Seach gur e uachdaran air oighreachd chroitearachd a bh’ ann an Iain, shaoil mi gum biodh e iomchaidh bruidhinn mu dheidhinn eachdraidh lagh an fhearainn, gu h-àraidh aig àm nuair a thathas a’ beachdachadh air atharraichean eile a dhèanamh anns an lagh sin. Mar a thuirt mi anns an òraid, nach bochd nach urrainn fios a bhith againn dè na h-atharraichean a bhiodh Iain fhèin a’ moladh. Chan eil teagamh nach bitheadh a bheachdan inntinneach fhèin aige; sin aon rud cinnteach!” A bharrachd air an òraid, chaidh duais shònraichte a thoirt seachad air an oidhche le Urras an Eilein airson “Neach Òg na Bliadhna” agus b’ e Màrtainn MacLeòir às an Àird, san Eilean Sgitheanach, a thog an duais. ’S e Manaidsear nan Cùrsaichean Goirid aig a’ Cholaiste a th’ ann am Màrtainn agus b’ e seo an dàrna bliadhna a shoirbhich le neach-obrach an t-Sabhail.

Òraidiche Am Morair Minginis, Ruaraidh Iain MacLeòid, le Lucilla Noble agus riochdairean bho Urras an Eilein agus SMO Speaker Lord Minginish, Roddy John MacLeod, with Lucilla Noble and representatives from Urras an Eilein and SMO

Màrtainn MacLeòir agus Dòmhnall Iain MacIllinnein Martin MacLure and Donald John Maclennan

The annual lecture was started by Sabhal Mòr Ostaig and Urras an Eilein (Skye Gaelic Trust) – two organisations which Sir Iain helped to establish and with which he enjoyed enduring ties during his lifetime – to honour the work and achievements of Sir Iain, especially with regard to the College, the island and the Gaelic language. On delivering the lecture, Lord Minginish, Roddy John MacLeod, said: “It was a great honour to be asked to deliver the Iain Noble Memorial Lecture. As Iain was himself a landlord of a crofting estate, I thought it appropriate to talk about the history of crofting legislation, especially at a time when there are proposals for change. As I said in my lecture, we sadly cannot know what changes Iain himself would wish to make. One thing for sure, though, they would have been original and imaginative.”

As part of the evening’s proceedings, the second “Skye Young Gaelic Person of the Year” award was presented and this year went to Martin MacLure from Aird in South Skye for his contribution to the use and promotion of Gaelic. Martin is the College’s Short Courses Manager and this is the second time the award has gone to a member of staff at SMO.

CEUMNACHD 2017 Dà dhuais shònraichte do oileanach às an Eilean Sgitheanach Cheumnaich 68 oileanaich Dihaoine 6 Dàmhair a’ ciallachadh gu bheil 1052 oileanaich a-nis air ceumnachadh bho Shabhal Mòr Ostaig bhon a thòisich iad a’ ceumnachadh ann an 1985. Chaidh Hannah NicDhiarmaid à Tòrabhaig san Eilean Sgitheanach ainmeachadh mar Oileanach na Bliadhna aig Sabhal Mòr Ostag agus Oileanach na Bliadhna airson Oilthigh na Gàidhealtachd is nan Eilean air fad, às dèidh dhi dìcheall is dealas nach beag a nochdadh na h-obair. Tha Hannah air ceum BA (le Urram) Cànan is Cultar na Gàidhlig a thoirt a-mach air astar fhad ’s a bha i a’ dèiligeadh ris an tinneas cystic fibrosis a bhios a’ toirt buaidh air na sgamhain agus air a’ chomas aig daoine gus biadh a chnàmh. Thuirt Leas-phrionnsapal agus Stiùiriche an Fhoghlaim, Iain Tormod MacLeòid: “’S e fìor adhbhar toileachais a th’ ann gu bheil còrr ’s mìle oileanach air ceum no teisteanas adhartach eile fhaighinn tro Shabhal Mòr Ostaig OGE, le mòran dhen luchdceumnachaidh sin an sàs ann an obraichean agus iomairtean far a bheil gleidheadh agus ath-bheothachadh na Gàidhlig aig cridhe chùisean. Tha sinn cuideachd air leth toilichte gun do bhuannaich Hannah NicDhiarmaid Duais Oileanach Oilthigh na Gàidhealtachd is nan Eilean na Bliadhna. Seo an dàrna turas a tha oileanach bho Shabhal Mòr Ostaig air an t-àrd urram seo a chosnadh.”

A thuilleadh air na teisteanasan acadaimigeach a chaidh a thoirt seachad, chaidh an t-urram Sàr Ghàidheal a bhuileachadh air dithis a tha air saothair mhòr a dhèanamh a thaobh dualchas, cultar agus cor na Gàidhlig thar nam bliadhnaichean: an Dr Urramach Ruairidh MacLeòid, à Uibhist a Tuath, agus Iain MacLeòid à Leòdhas. Thuirt Prionnsapal na Colaiste, an t-Ollamh Boyd Robasdan: “Tha an dithis air a bheil sinn a’ buileachadh inbhe Sàr Ghàidheil am-bliadhna glè aithnichte ann an saoghal na Gàidhlig agus fìor airidh air an urram. Tha maitheas na Gàidhlig nan smior agus tha an gnìomhan às leth a’ chànain is an dualchais air a bhith suaicheanta. Tha an Dr Urramach Ruairidh MacLeòid air obair ionmholta a dhèanamh ann an iomadh raon; san eaglais, sa choimhearsnachd, ann an obair rannsachaidh, sgoilearachd, sgrìobhaidh is foillseachaidh agus ann an obair comhairle. Tha Iain MacLeòid air a bhith a cheart cho dealasach na shaothair a’ strì airson chòraichean is inbhe dhan chànan agus airson foghlam tron Ghàidhlig agus mar bhall de dhiofar bhuidhnean leasachaidh is na Cheann-suidhe air a’ Chomunn Ghàidhealach. Dà Leòdach às am bitheadh bana-bhàrd a’ chinnidh, Màiri Nighean Alasdair Ruaidh, da-rìribh moiteil!” Chaidh Òraid na Ceumnachd a thoirt seachad le Sìne Ghilleasbuig, a bha i fhèin na h-oileanach aig Sabhal Mòr Ostaig agus a tha a-nis air Bòrd Stiùiridh na Colaiste.

DEALBHAN / CAPTIONS 1. Sìne Ghilleasbuig 2. Sàr Ghàidheal, Iain MacLeòid

3. Sàr Ghàidheal, An Dr Urr Ruairidh MacLeòid

GRADUATION 2017 Double award success for Skye student A total of 68 students graduated on Friday 6 October bringing the overall number of students to have graduated from Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, since graduations began in 1985, to 1052. Hannah McDiarmid from Torvaig, Isle of Skye, was named as Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI Student of the Year and University of the Highlands and Islands’ Student of the Year, for her unstinting dedication and determination in her studies. Hannah graduated with a BA (Hons) Gaelic Language and Culture while managing cystic fibrosis, a chronic, life-limiting condition which affects the lungs and the digestive systems The College’s Vice-Principal and Director of Studies, John Norman MacLeod said: “We are particularly delighted that over a thousand students have now gained degrees and other advanced awards through Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI, with many of those graduates engaged in careers and initiatives with Gaelic language maintenance and revival at their heart. We are also absolutely delighted that Hannah McDiarmid has won the award of UHI Student of the Year. This is the second time a student from SMO has achieved this distinction.” In addition to celebrating the academic achievements of students, Rev Dr Roderick MacLeod, originally from North Uist, and John MacLeod, from Lewis, were awarded the Sàr Ghàidheal honour in recognition of their tremendous contribution and

dedication in support of the Gaelic language and culture across a wide range of fields. Principal of SMO, Professor Boyd Robertson, said: “The recipients of this year’s Sàr Ghàidheal (Supreme Gael) awards are well-known in the Gaelic world and very deserving of the honour. They have the good of the language at heart and their deeds and achievements in support of the language have been remarkable. Rev Dr Roderick MacLeod has made an outstanding contribution across a number of sectors: in the church and in the community, in research, scholarship, writing and publishing and as an elected member of council. John MacLeod has been equally assiduous campaigning for language rights and status, for Gaelic-medium education and as a member of various development agencies and bodies and as President of An Comunn Gàidhealach. Mary MacLeod, the celebrated bardess of the Clan MacLeod, would be justifiably proud of these two kinsmen!” This year’s Graduation Lecture was delivered by Sìne Ghilleasbuig, a former student of Sabhal Mòr Ostaig and now a member of the College’s Board of Directors.

DEALBHAN / CAPTIONS 4. Na h-oileanaich ceumnachaidh / Graduates 5. BA (le Urram) Gàidhlig le Foghlam le Iain Tormod MacLeòid

6. Oileanach SMO agus OGE na Bliadhna, Hannah NicDhiarmaid 7. Dioplòma anns na Meadhanan Gàidhlig

Dè an t-ainm a th’ oirbh? Iain Greumach

What is your name? Ian Graham

Dè an obair a th’ agaibh? Neach-clàraidh agus Neach-teagaisg

What is your occupation? Academic Registrar and Lecturer

Cò às a tha sibh agus cò ris a tha e coltach? Tha mi à sgìre a’ Bhac ann an Leòdhas, sgìre le diofar bhailtean beaga is tha pailteas dhaoine a’ fuireach ann fhathast le taighean ùra a’ dol an àirde an-còmhnaidh. Tha tòrr dhaoine ann a bh’ ann bho thùs ach tha feadhainn air gluasad a-steach cuideachd is tha gu leòr Gàidhlig ri cluinntinn fhathast.

Where are you from and what is it like? I’m from Back which is a district in Lewis containing a few small villages. The population there is very healthy with new houses constantly being built. There are many people in Back who have always lived there and others who have moved to the area and there is still plenty of Gaelic to be heard.

What are your hobbies? I cut peats and then try to get them dry which has not been easy this year. I also enjoy watching sport on TV and reading about sport. I like music from the 70s and 80s and TV programmes about news as well as comedy and light entertainment. Name one thing you would like to do for Gaelic? I would like to see more boys choosing to study Gaelic in school as I’m aware that we do not have enough male students on our courses.

Dè na cur-seachadan a th’ agaibh? Bidh mi a’ buain na mònach agus a’ feuchainn ri a faighinn tioram, rud nach robh cho furasta dhomh am-bliadhna. ’S toil leam cuideachd a bhith a’ coimhead spòrs air an telebhisean is a’ leughadh mu dheidhinn agus ’s toil leam ceòl bho na 70an is na 80an. Tha prògraman telebhisein naidheachd agus prògraman aotrom is èibhinn a’ còrdadh rium. Ainmich aon rud a bu toil leibh a dhèanamh airson Gàidhlig a bhrosnachadh? Bu toil leam faicinn barrachd bhalaich a’ taghadh Gàidhlig mar chuspair sgoile leis gu bheil mi mothachail nach eil sinn a’ faighinn gu leòr bhalaich is fhireannaich air na cùrsaichean againn.

IAIN GREUMACH

COM-PÀIRTEACHAS Chuir Sabhal Mòr Ostaig aonta ri dà Aonta Co-Obrachaidh ùr o chionn ghoirid, aon dhiubh le Urras Taigh Chearsabhagh ann an Uibhist a Tuath agus fear eile le Colaisde na Gàidhlig ann an Ceap Breatann, Canada. Chuir Sue Fogden, Cathraiche Urras Taigh Chearsabhagh, agus Boyd Robasdan, Prionnsapal Shabhal Mòr Ostaig, an làmhan ri Aonta Co-Obrachaidh gus Gàidhlig a thoirt air adhart an lùib obair Taigh Chearsabhagh, an taigh-tasgaidh is ionadealain ann an Loch nam Madadh. Thuirt an t-Ollamh Boyd Robasdan: “Tha dlùth cheangal eachdraidheil eadar Uibhist a Tuath agus Slèite tro Chlann Dòmhnaill agus tha an t-Aonta Co-obrachaidh seo a’ toirt cothrom dhan dà sgìre dàimh ùr a thogail eatorra. Mar Ionad Nàiseanta na Gàidhlig, tha e mar dhleastanas oirnn a bhith a’ frithealadh iarrtasan choimhearsnachdan air feadh na dùthcha agus a bhith ruith chlasaichean is chùrsaichean far a bheil daoine gan iarraidh.” Chuir Leas-phrionnsapal agus Stiùiriche an Fhoghlaim aig Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, Iain Tormod MacLeòid, a làmh ri Aonta Co-Obrachaidh eadar Colaisde na Gàidhlig agus SMO nuair a fhritheil e co-labhairt ann an Ceap Breatann. Leis an Aonta tha an dà cholaiste a’ cur romhpa a bhith ag obair còmhla gus cànan, cultar agus dualchas na Gàidhlig a thoirt air adhart. Chaidh ‘A’ Ceangal nan Gàidheal’, co-labhairt eadarnàiseanta, a chumail ann an Colaisde na Gàidhlig san Iuchar agus b’ e sin a’ chiad chruinneachadh dhe a leithid ann an Canada a bha a’ toirt Ghàidhealtachdan bho Alba, Èirinn agus Alba Nuadh còmhla, agus bha buidhnean agus daoine an làthair a tha an sàs ann an adhartachadh chànanan, leasachadh na h-eaconamaidh agus ann an cùisean cultarach sna sgìrean Gàidhlig air gach taobh den Chuan Siar.

MEMORANDA OF UNDERSTANDING Sabhal Mòr Ostaig has recently signed two separate memoranda of understanding, one with the Taigh Chearsabhagh Trust in North Uist and the other with Colaisde na Gàidhlig in Cape Breton, Canada. Sue Fogden, Chairperson of the Taigh Chearsabhagh Trust and Boyd Robertson, Principal of Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, signed the MOU to develop Gaelic language activity in the operations of Taigh Chearsabhagh museum and arts centre in Lochmaddy. Professor Boyd Robertson said: “North Uist and Sleat are historically linked through Clan Donald and this MOU affords the two communities an opportunity to forge a new association. As the National Centre for Gaelic language and culture, it is incumbent upon us to meet the needs of communities throughout the country and to run classes and courses wherever there is a demand.” On a recent visit to Cape Breton, Director of Studies at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, John Norman MacLeod, signed a Memorandum of Understanding between Colaisde na Gàidhlig and Sabhal Mòr Ostaig which commits both partners to work together to develop and foster collaboration between the institutions in the furtherance and enhancement of the Gaelic language, culture and heritage. A' Ceangal nan Gàidheal (“Linking of the Gaels”), an international summit was held at the Gaelic college in Cape Breton in July. This was the first meeting of its kind in Canada which brought together groups and representatives/delegates who are involved in developing language, culture and economy in the Gaelic diaspora.

Boyd Robasdan agus Sue Fogden, Cathraiche Urras Taigh Chearsabhagh

Iain Tormod MacLeòid agus Rodney MacDonald, CEO Colaisde na Gàidhlig © Iain Stephen Morrison and Colaidse na Gàidhlig

PRIONNSAPAL PRINCIPAL An toir thu dhuinn beagan eachdraidh mun obair anns an robh thu an sàs mus tàinig thu dhan t-Sabhal? Bha mi nam neach-teagaisg Gàidhlig ann an Àrd-sgoil an Òbain airson deich bliadhna, na còig mu dheireadh mar Cheannard na Roinne. Ghluais mi às an Òban gu Colaiste Chnoc Iòrdain ann an Glaschu far an robh mi os cionn trèanadh luchd-teagaisg Gàidhlig. Chaidh a’ Cholaiste aonadh le Oilthigh Shrath Chluaidh ann an 1993 agus bha mi às deidh sin a’ teagasg Gàidhlig is Eòlas Ceiltis san oilthigh. Bha mi nam Leughadair ann an Gàidhlig is nam Cheannard air Roinn an Fhoghlaim Chànanaich nuair a fhuair mi an obair seo aig an t-Sabhal Mhòr.

Iomradh air an ùine a tha thu air a bhith nad Phrionnsapal an seo agus cò ris a tha sin air a bhith coltach. Tha mi air a bhith nam Phrionnsapal an seo bhon Fhaoilleach 2009 agus tha na naoi bliadhna sin air còrdadh rium gu mòr. Tha mi air riarachadh is tlachd air leth fhaighinn às an obair.

Dè seòrsa àite th’ ann an Sabhal Mòr Ostaig? Àite prìseil. Àite mìorbhaileach. Chan eil a shamhail ann an dà chuid a thaobh nàdair an ionaid is far a bheil e suidhichte. Tha àrainneachd na Colaiste anabarrach bòidheach. Tha mòran air a ràdh gur e seo an làrach foghlaim àrd-ìre as tarraingiche a chunnaic iad riamh. Ach chan e-mhàin suidheachadh an t-Sabhail a tha sònraichte. Tha na daoine a tha ag obair an seo àraidh cuideachd. Bidh luchd-tadhail ag ràdh gu bheil spiorad is faireachadh iongantach sa Cholaiste is tha iad làn molaidh airson cho geanail, èasgaidh is cuideachail a tha an sgioba.

A bheil e air atharrachadh san ùine tha thu air a bhith seo? Tha atharrachaidhean air a bhith ann a thaobh luchd-obrach, dhreuchdan is bhuill a’ Bhùird ach ’s e an t-atharrachadh as nochdte gu bheil togalach spaideil ùr Ionad Iain Noble agus dà thaigh-còmhnaidh againn mar phàirt dhen chiad ìre de Leasachadh Baile na Cille Bige.

Dè seòrsa obair a th’ ann am Prionnsapal Colaiste ann an àite mar Sabhal Mòr Ostaig? ’S e obair ioma-thaobhach a th’ ann. Tha thu dèiligeadh ri measgachadh mòr de nithean bho riaghlachas gu rannsachadh, bho chùrsaichean gu àiteachan-fuirich, bho ghoireasan gu pròiseactan, bho sgrùdaidhean gu dòighean-siubhail agus bho thachartasan gu taigheadas. Agus tha thu a’ leughadh is a’ sgrìobhadh aithisgean is phàipearan agus a’ frithealadh choinneamhan gun sgur! Tha tòrr siubhail is tosgaireachd an lùib na h-obrach cuideachd.

Dè na diofar phròiseactan/iomairtean sa bheil thu an sàs? Tha mi air a bhith an sàs ann am pròiseact eadar-oilthigh Faclair na Gàidhlig bho thòisich e ann an 2003 agus air a bhith nam Chathraiche air a’ Chomataidh Stiùiridh bho 2007. ’S e pròiseact cudromach a th’ ann gus faclair mòr, ùghdarrasail is eachdraidheil a chruthachadh dhan Ghàidhlig leithid an Oxford English Dictionary. Tha mi air a bhith an lùib a’ phròiseict rannsachaidh eadar-oilthigh Soillse bho thòisich e ann an 2009 agus tha mi air a bhith an sàs ann an iomairtean mar FlySkye agus

Fòram Còmhdhail Shlèite a tha air a bhith a’ coiteachadh airson seirbheisean adhair is aiseig dhan Eilean Sgitheanach.

Dè na rudan as motha a tha air tachairt san ùine tha thu air a bhith seo? Ceannach 42 acair fearainn bho Oighreachd Chlann Dòmhnaill, toiseach tòiseachaidh Baile na Cille Bige le togalach Iain Noble agus dà thaigh-còmhnaidh, toraidhean soirbheachail an REF 2014, inbhe ionad trèanaidh luchd-teagaisg fhaotainn dhan Cholaiste, ollamhachdan air a bhuileachadh air ceathrar òraidichean, dà oileanach air an aithneachadh mar Oileanach na Bliadhna aig OGE agus tachartasan na 40mh bliadhna dhen t-Sabhal ann an 2013.

Gu pearsanta, ciamar a tha thu a’ faireachdainn mu bhith a’ leigeil dhìot do dhreuchd? Tha mi coimhead air adhart ri beagan fois às dèidh 45 bliadhna ag obair agus bidh e math cothrom fhaighinn a bhith a’ leughadh, a’ siubhal, ag iasgach agus a’ togail dhealbhan. Bidh e neònach gun a bhith a’ tighinn a dh’obair gach latha agus bidh mi ag ionndrainn a bhith am measg na sgioba agus a’ faighinn tì air a dhèanamh dhomh trì tursan san latha!

A bheil comhairle sam bith agad airson an ath Phrionnsapal??! Gabh fois bho àm gu àm, cleachd na goireasan spòrs agus na ith cus dhe na cèicean milis ann an Cafaidh IIN!

Can you tell us a little about the job you had before you came to Sabhal Mòr? I was a Gaelic teacher in Oban High School for ten years, the last five as Head of Department. I moved from Oban to Jordanhill College in Glasgow, where I was in charge of Gaelic teacher training. The college merged with Strathclyde University in 1993 following which I taught Gaelic and Celtic Studies in the university. I was Reader in Gaelic and Head of the Language Education department before being appointed to this post at Sabhal Mòr.

Tell us about your time as Principal and what that has been like? I have been the Principal since January 2009 and I have enjoyed these nine years immensely. The job has been very satisfying and enjoyable.

A very special place. A marvellous place. There is no place quite like it, either in terms of its mission or its location. The College setting is simply stunning. Many have said that it is the most attractive higher education campus they have ever seen. But it’s not only the setting that is special. The people who work here are special too. Visitors frequently comment on the wonderful spirit and atmosphere they discern about the College and they are full of praise for the workforce and how welcoming, obliging and helpful they are.

Have things changed in your time here? There have been changes in staffing, posts and board membership, but the most evident change has been the new Iain Noble Centre and the two new houses that have been built as part of the first phase of the Kilbeg Village development.

AN T-OLLAMH BOYD ROBASDAN, PRIONNSAPAL PROFESSOR BOYD ROBERTSON, PRINCIPAL

What sort of place is Sabhal Mòr?

What’s involved in being the Principal of a place like Sabhal Mòr Ostaig? The job is multi-faceted. You have to deal with a wide variety of matters, from governance to research, from courses to residences, from facilities to projects, from inspections and audits to transport issues, from events to housing. And you have to read and write reports and documents and attend meetings non-stop! The role also involves a lot of travelling and ambassadorial work.

What projects and initiatives have you been engaged in? I have been involved in the inter-university Faclair na Gàidhlig/ Gaelic Dictionary project since its inception in 2003 and have been Convener of the Steering Committee from 2007. It is a singularly important project which aims to produce a major authoritative and historical dictionary akin to the Oxford English Dictionary. I have been active in the inter-university Soillse research project since it was established in 2009 and in initiatives such as FlySkye and the Sleat Transport Forum which campaign for air and ferry services for the island.

Noble and two houses, the College becoming an accredited teacher education institution, professorships awarded to four lecturers, two students recognised as UHI Student of the Year, and the events held in 2013 to mark the College’s 40th anniversary.

How do you feel on a personal level about retiring? I am looking forward to some rest and relaxation after 45 years of working life and it will be good to get a chance to read for pleasure, travel, do some fishing and photography. It will be strange not coming to work each day, and I will miss the interaction with the team and getting cups of tea made for me three times a day!

What have been the noteworthy developments in your time here?

Do you have any advice for the next Principal?

The purchase of 42 acres of land from the Clan Donald Lands Trust, the initial phase of the Kilbeg Village including Ionad Iain

Take a break from time to time, use the College gym and don’t over-indulge in the delicious baking in Café IIN!

BA GÀIDHLIG LE FOGHLAM – STUDENT PROFILE Dè an t-ainm a th’ ort? ’S mise Liam MacGriogair Ciamar a chuala tu mun chùrsa seo? Chuala mi mu dheidhinn a’ chùrsa nuair a bha mi san àrd-sgoil a’ dèanamh Gàidhlig aig àrd-ìre. Carson a thagh thu e? Tha mi air a bhith gu math dèidheil air cànanan os cuimhne leam. Chaidh mi tro FtMG agus rinn mi Spàinntis aig ìre Int2. Bha e soilleir dhomh gun robh ùidh mhòr agam ann an cànanan agus mar sin bha mi airson Gàidhlig a dhèanamh aig ìre oilthighe. Cò ris a tha e coltach? Tha an cùrsa a’ còrdadh rium gu mòr agus tha mi daonnan ag ionnsachadh an t-uabhas de ghnìomhan ùra.

“THA MI A’ COIMHEAD AIR ADHART RIS AN ÀM RI TEACHD AGUS NA THA AIR THOISEACH ORM”. What is your name? Liam MacGregor How did you hear about this course? I heard about it when I was doing my Higher Gaelic in Secondary School. Why did you choose this course? I have been keen on languages for as long as I can remember. I went through Gaelic Medium Education and also did Spanish Intermediate 2. It was clear that I had a passion for languages and so I wanted to undertake a Gaelic degree at University.

Dè bu mhath leat a dhèanamh nuair a bhios tu deiseil? Às dèidh a’ cheathraimh bhliadhna, tha mi an dùil a bhith a’ teagasg aig ìre àrd-sgoile an àiteigin. Ma bhios mi soirbheachail aig a’ cheann thall, tha mi a’ smaoineachadh nach bi cus dragh orm càite an tèid mi airson a’ chiad bhliadhna. Tha mi a’ coimhead air adhart ris an àm ri teachd agus na tha air thoiseach orm.

What’s the course like? I’m really enjoying the course and constantly learning new things. On completion of the course, what would you like to do? After 4th year, I hope to be teaching at secondary school level somewhere. If I am successful at the end of it, I don’t think I’ll mind too much where I go for my probation year. I am looking forward to the future and all that is ahead of me.

DUAIS BÀRDACHD

POETRY PRIZE

B’ i Deborah Moffat, às Na Stàitean Aonaichte, a bhuannaich farpais bàrdachd MhicDhòmhnaill Shlèite am-bliadhna. Seo an dàrna bliadhna às dèidh a chèile a tha i air an duais a chosnadh. Rugadh Deborah ann am Vermont ach tha i nis a’ tàmh ann am Fìobha. B’ ann an 2013 a thòisich i sgrìobhadh dàin sa Ghàidhlig. Chaidh an fharpais, a tha air a ruith le Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, a stèidheachadh leis an Ridire Iain MacDhòmhnaill Shlèite mar chuimhneachan air an nighinn aige, Deborah. ’S e cuspair cocheangailte ri craobhan a tha aig an fharpais gach bliadhna agus b’ e cuspair na bliadhna seo, geug no geugan. ’S e Geug an Dòchais a thug Deborah air an dàn a thagh am pannal de thriùir bhritheamhan. Chaidh an duais a thoirt do Deborah le Sir Iain MacDhòmhnaill aig cruinneachadh aig Taigh-tasgaidh Chlann Dòmhnaill ann an Armadal Disathairne 30 Sultain. Thuirt Sir Iain: “Chòrd an dàn aig Deborah rium fìor mhath. Bha e mar ùrnaigh cho math ri bhith na bhàrdachd. Bha am faireachdainn agus na briathran dòchais air còrdadh gu mòr ris an nighinn agam, Deborah.”

The winner of this year’s MacDonald of Sleat poetry prize is Deborah Moffat from the USA. This is the second year in succession that she has won the competition. Deborah belongs to Vermont but now lives in Fife. She began writing Gaelic poetry in 2013. The competition which is run by Sabhal Mòr Ostaig was instituted by Sir Ian MacDonald of Sleat in memory of his daughter, Deborah. The competition has a tree related theme each year and this year it was a branch or branches. The Branch of Hope was the title of the poem composed by Deborah and selected by the panel of three judges. Deborah received her prize from Sir Ian MacDonald at a gathering at the Museum of the Isles at Armadale on Saturday 30 September. Sir Ian MacDonald commented: “I particularly liked Deborah’s poem which also read like a prayer. My daughter, Deborah, would have loved it and understood the feeling and words of hope.”

An t-Ollamh (Professor) Boyd Robasdan

Deborah Moffat

Sue Geale

Mark Wringe

an Ridire (Sir) Iain MacDhòmhnaill

Thug an t-Àrd-Ollamh Meg Bateman seachad òraid san t-Sultain mar phàirt den t-sreath de dh’òraidean poblach aig Oilthigh na Gàidhealtachd agus nan Eilean. Bha i a’ beachdachadh air a’ cheist a bheil a leithid ann ri fradharc Gàidhealach air an t-saoghal. Bha an t-Àrd-ollamh Bateman a’ tairgsinn a’ bheachd gun robh dòigh shònraichte aig na Gàidheil a bhith a’ faicinn an t-saoghail, le bhith a’ sgrùdadh cheistean mu luach an fhradhairc ann an cultar na Gàidhlig, mar a riochdaichear dathan agus mar a tha beachd-smuain fighte fuaighte ann an gràmair agus gnàthasan-cainnte. Mar a mhìnich i fhèin e: “Is dòcha gun tug mothachadh nan Gàidheal buaidh air an tuigse a bh’ ann sa chultar air gnothaichean bunaiteach leithid suidheachadh mac an duine san àrainneachd, cumadh ùine agus an dàimh eadar an spiorad agus nithean.” B’e òraid tighinn an dreuchd an Àrd-ollaimh Bateman a bha seo, a bha stèidhichte air eileamaidean den leabhar a tha ri thighinn, Window to the West, a sgrìobh i còmhla ris an sgrìobhadair, craoladair agus sgrìobhaiche-ciùil, John Purser.

ÒRAID OGE LE MEG BATEMAN MEG BATEMAN UHI LECTURE

Professor Meg Bateman delivered a talk at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig in September, as part of the University of the Highlands and Islands’ public lecture series, looking at whether there is a Gaelic way of seeing the world. Exploring questions around the value of sight in Gaelic culture, the representation of colour and the way ideologies are embedded in grammar and idioms, Professor Bateman proposed that Gaels had a particular way of perceiving the world. She explained: “It may well be that Gaelic aesthetics shaped and, in turn, were shaped by the culture’s understanding of fundamentals such as man’s position in the environment, the shape of time and the relationship between the spirit and the material.” This was Professor Bateman’s inaugural professorial lecture and was based on elements of the forthcoming book, Window to the West, which she co-wrote with the writer, broadcaster and composer, John Purser.

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STIÙIDIO Dè th’ ann an Stiùidio Ostaig? ’S e stiùidio clàraidh na Colaiste a th’ ann, stèidhichte ann an Àrainn Ostaig. ’S e stiùidio proifeiseanta a th’ ann airson pròiseact ciùil no fuaim sam bith. Cò bhios ga chleachdadh? ’S ann leis a’ Chùrsa Chiùil as motha a tha an stiùidio is bidh iad ag ionnsachadh mu dheidhinn clàradh is riochdachadh tron cheum air fad. Ach nuair nach eil na h-oileanaich ciùil ga chleachdadh, tha mòran dhaoine eadar-dhealaichte a’ tadhal oirnn. Tha luchd-ciùil is seinneadairean leithid Dàimh, Fras, Amy Henderson, Ross Martin is Eilidh Shaw agus Anna MacDonald uile air clàradh an seo. Tha sinn fiù’s air seiseanan bho astar a dhèanamh le luchdciùil ann an Canada agus a’ Bhreatainn Bheag. Tha sinn a’ dèanamh tòrr le companaidhean mar Cànan agus Stòrlann a thaobh stuthan foghlaim, agus tha sinn cuideachd air clàradh fuaim son prògraman Tbh, animation agus dràma air rèidio. Dè an obair a th’ agad fhèin an seo? Tha mise a’ cumail taic ris na h-oileanaich san stiùidio agus a’ teagasg air a’ Chùrsa Ciùil agus ’s e innleadair/riochdaire na Colaiste a th’ annam airson na h-oileanaich agus duine sam bith eile a tha airson an stiùidio a chleachdadh. Le measgachadh cho farsaing de phròiseactan, dh’ fhaodainn a bhith a’ tàthadh càballan no a’ cluich na drumaichean! Innis dhuinn mu do dheidhinn fhèin Mar a h-uile duine eile a tha an sàs sa Chùrsa Ciùil, ’s e neach-ciùil a th’ annam. Bidh mi a’ sgrìobhadh is a’ seinn leam fhìn agus leis a’ chòmhlan Dead Man’s Waltz agus a’ co-obrachadh le diofar dhaoine mar Philippa Thomas air a’ phròiseact Slighe Sìoman. Tha na sgilean teicnigeach agam gus pròiseactan chruthachail a chur air chois agus mholainn gum biodh na sgilean sin aig na h-oileanaich cuideachd. ’S e mo chuid Ghàidhlig aon de na sgilean a tha mi airson a neartachadh agus tha mi an-dràsta nam oileanach air a’ Chùrsa Inntrigidh. ’S e cùrsa ionmholta a th’ ann agus dòigh ionnsachaidh air leth. Pròiseactan/planaichean ri thighinn? Bidh mi a’ ruith pròiseact gach bliadhna a tha a’ toirt cothrom do cheòladairean òga tighinn a-steach dhan stiùidio airson a’ chiad uair agus thig toradh na h-obrach sin a-mach a dh’ aithghearr. Tha òran singilte bho riochdaire ionadail DJ Ros T an ìmpis tighinn a-mach agus tha an còmhlan Rhuvaal (sa bheil Kimberley Chaimbeul bhon Chùrsa Chiùil) a’ dol a thoirt a-mach a’ chiad chlàr aca, a chaidh a dhèanamh aig Stiùidio Ostaig, agus tha mi a’ dèanamh fiughair riutha sin! Tha sinn cuideachd a’ coimhead ri cùrsa goirid ann an sgilean stiùidio a chur air dòigh airson cùrsaichean samhraidh 2018.

OSTAIG

What is Stiùidio Ostaig? Stiùidio Ostaig is Sabhal Mòr Ostaig’s own recording studio in Àrainn Ostaig. It’s a professional studio for any kind of music or audio project. Who uses it? The studio is mainly here to be used by the Cùrsa Ciùil, and they learn about recording and production throughout their degree. But when it’s not being used by them we have all kinds of people through the door. Acts like Dàimh, Fras, Amy Henderson, Ross Martin and Eilidh Shaw and Anna MacDonald have all recorded here, and we’ve even done remote sessions for musicians in other countries like The Bay Street Sessions (Canada) and Arnaud Ciapolino (Brittany). We don’t only work with musicians, though. We do a lot of work with people like Cànan and Stòrlann recording education materials like the Gaelic listening prelims and vocabulary audio for apps, and we've recorded audio for TV programmes, animation and radio dramas. We also record all the voices for the online comic “Smathsin!”, so it’s very varied! What is your role there? I'm here mainly to manage the studio for the students and teach on the Cùrsa Ciùil and I am the in house engineer/producer for them and anyone hiring the studio. Because we have such a wide range of projects to work on that can mean anything from soldering cables to playing the drums! Tell us about your skills/background Like everyone involved in the Cùrsa Ciùil I’m a musician first and foremost. I write and perform as a solo artist/composer as well as with The Dead Man’s Waltz and collaborations with many other folk such as the “Slighe Sìoman”/Hebridean Cable Transit Company project with Philippa Thomas. So I’ve learned the technical skills needed to run a studio in order to be able to make creative projects happen, and I suppose that would be the approach I’d encourage the students to take. Current projects and future plans…? I run a project each year which allows young musicians to come into the studio who have never been able to come into a studio before and some of the results of that are about to come out. A single from local producer/DJ Ros T is being released on the Eton Messy label, and also a band called Rhuvaal (featuring Kimberley Campbell from the Cùrsa Ciùil) are about to bring out a first single produced at Stiùidio Ostaig so I’ m really excited to hear these reach the public! We are also in the early stages of planning a short course in studio skills as part of the college’ s summer programme next year.

HECTOR

MACAONGHAIS MACINNES

DIOPLÒMA ANNS NA MEADHANAN GÀIDHLIG DIPLOMA IN GAELIC MEDIA

Cò as a tha thu? ’S ann à Dolair a tha mi o thùs, baile beag ann an teas mheadhein na h-Alba. Tha mi a-nis a’ fuireach faisg air Na Torran, is chuir mi seachad dà bhliadhna a’ fuireach ann an Reykjavík, Innis Tìle. Carson a thagh thu an cùrsa seo? Tha ùidh riamh air a bhith agam anns na meadhanan agus naidheachdan, gu h-àraidh poilitigs. Tha mi 26 a-nis agus airson obair cheart fhaighinn a bheir toileachas agus cothroman dhomh. Ged is ann tro mheadhan na Gaidhlig a tha an cùrsa seo, bhiodh cothrom obair fhaighinn thall thairis leis an teisteanas seo cuideachd. Cò ris a tha e coltach? Tha an cùrsa gu math inntinneach, le tòrr obair na lùib, ach ’s i buidheann mhath a th’ againn an seo, tha sinn air ar deagh stiùireadh agus chan eil taic sam bith a dhìth oirnn. Tha sinn air an t-uabhas ionnsachadh mar-thà, sgilean camara, fuaim, riochdachaidh, sgrìobhaidh, naidheachd msaa. Gheibh sinn cothrom an ath-bhliadhna prògram goirid a dhèanamh agus tha sinn air a bhith ag obair dhan BhBC aig a’Mhòd Nàiseanta cuideachd. Dè bu mhath leat a dhèanamh nuair a bhios tu deiseil? ’S ann ann an naidheachdas a tha ùidh agam agus bu mhath leam gu mòr a bhith an sàs ann, sgrìobhadh air neo ag aithris air TBh no rèidio. Bhiodh ùidh agam cuideachd ann a bhith nam phreasantair.

Where are you from? I’m originally from Dollar, a small town in central Scotland. I now live near Torrin, Isle of Skye and I also spent 2 years living in Reykjavík, Iceland. Why did you choose this course? I have always been interested in the media and news, especially politics. As I’m now 26, I would like a career that makes me happy and offers me opportunities. This course, delivered through the medium of Gaelic, prepares you to work in Gaelic media but it also equips you to work in media anywhere.

What’s the course like? The course is really interesting and there’s a lot of work involved, but we have a good team, with great instruction and support all round. We have learnt so much already; camera skills, sound, production, writing, news etc. We have already had hands-on experience of working for the BBC at the Royal National Mod and next year we will get the chance to make a short programme. What would you like to do once you are finished? My interest lies in news and I would very much like to be involved in that field, writing or reporting on TV or radio. I would also be interested in the role of a presenter.

SÙIL AIR ASTAR

DISTANCE LEARNING

Cò sibh? Ben Thome

Name: Ben Thome

Càite bheil sibh a’ fuireach? Tha mi a’ fuireach ann am Minnesota anns na Stàitean Aonaichte.

Where do you live? Minnesota, USA.

Dè an cùrsa a tha sibh a’ dèanamh? An Cùrsa Adhartais

What course are you studying? An Cùrsa Adhartais

Carson a thagh sibh an cùrsa seo? Tha mi ag ionnsachadh Gàidhlig oir tha an cànan is an cultar a’ toirt tlachd dhomh. Tha e gu math eadardhealaichte a bhith ag ionnsachadh cànan aig m’ aois, seach nuair a bha mi na b’ òige, ach tha mi a’ togail dòighean ionnsachaidh ùra a tha gam chuideachadh. Tha e dùbhlanach ach tha mi a’ dèanamh piseach!

Why did you choose this course? I am studying Gaelic because I enjoy the language and the culture. Studying a new language in my middle years is very different to when I was younger, but I am acquiring new strategies to assist my learning. It’s been challenging but I am progressing and picking up the language!

Innis dhuinn rudeigin mu ur deidhinn fhèin: Tha ceum BA Ameireaganach agam ann an Cànanachas.

Tell us something about yourself: I have a US Bachelors of Arts degree in Linguistics.

Cò sibh? Eileen Walker

Name: Eileen Walker

Càite bheil sibh a’ fuireach? ’S ann à New Jersey a tha mi ach tha mi a’ fuireach ann a Virginia, sna Stàitean Aonaichte.

Where do you live? I am from New Jersey but live in Virginia, USA.

Dè an cùrsa a tha sibh a’ dèanamh? An Cùrsa Inntrigidh

What course are you studying? An Cùrsa Inntrigidh

Carson a thagh sibh an cùrsa seo agus ciamar a tha e a’ dol? Thòisich mi ag ionnsachadh Gàidhlig beagan bhliadhnaichean air ais le mo nighean an seo ann a Virginia. Bha an riamh ùidh agam anns an dualchas Albannach agam agus nuair a bha mi aig Seachdain na Gàidhlig is nan Òran aig Grandfather Mountain as t-samhradh ann a Carolina a Tuath, fhuair mi bileag mu na cùrsaichean air astar bho neach-obrach Shabhal Mòr Ostaig. Tha an clas a’ còrdadh rium.

Why did you choose this course? I started learning Gaelic several years ago with my daughter here in Virginia. I have always been interested in my Scottish heritage and when I was at The Gaelic and Song Week at Grandfather Mountain this summer in North Carolina, I received information on distance learning from an SMO representative who had come over. I am enjoying the class.

Innis dhuinn rudeigin mu ur deidhinn fhèin: Tha pàrantan m’ athair à Glaschu agus fhuair mi a-mach gun robh Gàidhlig aig aon dhe mo shìn-seanmhairean bho thùs.

Tell us something about yourself: My paternal grandparents are from Glasgow and I found out one of my great grandmothers was a native Gaelic speaker.

Cò sibh? Alice Meaden

Name: Alice Meaden

Càite bheil sibh a’ fuireach? An Rubha ann an Earra-Ghàidheal, ach bidh mi a’ tighinn dhan cholaiste cho tric ’s as urrainn dhomh gus obair a dhèanamh!

Where do you live? An Rubha, Argyll, but I come to the College as often as possible to work!

Dè an cùrsa a tha sibh a’ dèanamh? BA (le Urram) Gàidhlig le Foghlam

What course are you studying? BA (Hons) Gaelic with Education

Carson a thagh sibh an cùrsa seo? Bha mi airson a bhith nam thidsear, is bha ùidh agam sa Ghàidhlig agus nuair nach d’ fhuair mi a-steach ann am PGDE tro mheadhan na Beurla, dh’ionnsaich mi Gàidhlig gus tighinn dhan dreuchd bho shlighe eile! Tha a’ Ghàidhlig na pàirt mhòr dhe mo bheatha a-nis - tha dithis bhalach agam agus ’s i a’ Ghàidhlig a chleachdas sinn còmhla aig an taigh a-nis! Tha an cùrsa seo a’còrdadh rium uabhasach math is tha mi a’ faireachdainn gu bheil mo chuid Ghàidhlig agus m’ eòlais air foghlam tro mheadhan na Gàidhlig fhèin fada nas fheàrr, is mi air a’ chùrsa seo a dhèanamh.

Why did you choose this course? I wanted to be a teacher and had an interest in Gaelic, so having been unsuccessful gaining entrance to English medium PGDE, I learned Gaelic and came to the profession through another route! Gaelic is a big part of my life now – I have 2 young boys and we speak Gaelic at home now all the time! I enjoy the course a lot and I feel my Gaelic and my knowledge of Gaelic medium education have greatly improved having done this course.

Innis dhuinn rudeigin mu ur deidhinn fhèin: Bidh mi a’ teagasg seòladh agus ma gheibh mi an cothrom a-chaoidh, bu mhath leam seòladh a theagasg tro mheadhan na Gàidhlig!

Tell us something about yourself: I teach sailing and if I ever get the chance, I would love to teach sailing through the medium of Gaelic!

Cò sibh? Is mise Ailidh Kingham

Name: Alexandra Kingham

Càite bheil sibh a’ fuireach? Tha mi à Lunnainn ach tha mi a’ fuireach ann an Warwickshire.

Where do you live? Warwickshire but I am originally from London

Dè an cùrsa a tha sibh a’ dèanamh? Tha mi a’ dèanamh An Cùrsa Inntrigidh an-dràsta agus as dèidh sin bu toil leam An Cùrsa Adhartais a dhèanamh.

What course are you studying? An Cùrsa Inntrigidh at present but would like to do An Cùrsa Adhartais after that.

Carson a thagh sibh a’ chùrsa seo? ’S toil leam cèol Gàidhlig, gu h-àraid Runrig, ach cha do thuig mi riamh na faclan. Thòisich mi air Gàidhlig ionnsachadh ann an 2015 le Speaking Our Language ach bha mi ag iarraidh deagh chùrsa agus a bhith a’ bruidhinn ri luchdionnsachaidh eile. Tha An Cùrsa Inntrigidh a’ còrdadh rium. Tha an obair inntinneach agus tha an stòr-fhacal agam a’ fàs, beag air bheag.

Why did you choose this course? I like Gaelic music, especially Runrig, although I never understood the lyrics. I started learning Gaelic in 2015 with Speaking Our Language but I wanted a really good course and to get to speak with other learners. I enjoy An Cùrsa Inntrigidh. The work is interesting and my vocabulary is increasing, bit by bit.

Innis dhuinn rudeigin mu ur deidhinn fhèin: Rinn mi caraidean ùra air Cùrsa Goirid SMO agus bi sinn a' bruidhinn air Skype a h-uile seachdain.

Tell us something about yourself: I made new friends while doing a short course at SMO and we skype each other every week.

PAN CELTIC 20

Bha Ceitidh Nic a’ Phì agus Sophie NicSteaphain bho Sgioba Margaideachd an t-Sabhail ann an Èirinn aig Fèis Eadarnàiseanta Phan Cheilteach am-bliadhna a chaidh a chumail ann an Ceatharlach. Tha an Fhèis seo a’ comharrachadh nan ceanglaichean cultarail eadar Èirinn, Alba, A’ Chuimrigh, A’ Bhreatann Bheag, A’ Chòrn agus Eilean Mhanainn gach bliadhna. Bidh sreath de chuirmean, co-fharpaisean, cèilidhean is seiseanan mì-fhoirmeil ann a bhios a’ tarraing cheòladairean, sheinneadairean is dhannsairean às na dùthchannan Ceilteach cruinn còmhla airson eòlas a chur air cànan is cultar chàich a chèile.

Katie MacPhee and Sophie Stephenson from SMO’s Marketing Team were in Ireland for the 2017 Pan Celtic International Festival which was held this year in Carlow. Pan Celtic is an annual festival which celebrates cultural links between Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Brittany, Cornwall and the Isle of Man. The festival hosts a series of concerts, competitions, dances, and informal sessions with the aim of bringing musicians, singers and dancers from the participating Celtic nations together to share their language and culture.

As dèidh dhith tilleadh bhon fhèis, thuirt Sophie: “’S e cothrom air leth a bh’ ann airson coinneachadh ri luchd-labhairt nam mion-chànanan eile agus airson ceanglaichean eadar-nàiseanta a dhèanamh le buidhnean eile. Bha e inntinneach dha-rìribh a bhith ag ionnsachadh mu na tha cumanta agus diofraichte eadarainn agus ciamar a bhios ionadan eile a’ cleachdadh agus a’ brosnachadh a’ chànain aca fhèin. Tha mi fhìn den bharail gu bheil cothroman ann do na h-Albannaich sgioba nas motha a chur ann an ath thuras agus saoilidh mi gum biodh e math nan rachadh barrachd luchd-obrach is oileanaich bhon t-Sabhal Mhòr an sàs ann san àm ri teachd.”

On returning from the festival, Sophie said: “It was a superb opportunity to meet groups of minority language speakers and to make international connections with other organisations. It was particularly interesting to learn about the commonalities and differences between our cultures and how other institutions use and promote their own language. I believe there is definitely scope for Scotland to have stronger representation at the festival and I think it would be great to see more staff and students from Sabhal Mòr getting involved in the future.”

A bharrachd air a bhith sgaoileadh fios mun Ghàidhlig is mun Cholaiste, bha Sophie agus Ceitidh cuideachd an sàs anns na farpaisean fhèin. Bha Ceitidh na riochdaire Albannach air pannal nam britheamhan airson farpais òran nam buidhnean. Chuir Sophie oirre a brògan dannsaidh airson na Co-fharpais Dannsa Eadar-Cheilteach Aon-neach far an d’ fhuair i an treas àite. A bharrachd air a sin chluich i an fhìdeag is rinn i dannsa-ceuma beò air RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta far an d’ rinn an dithis aca agallamh ann an Gàidhlig agus Gaeilge cuide ri Máirtín Tom Sheáinín.

As well as promoting the college and Gaelic at events throughout the festival, Sophie and Katie were also involved in the competitions. Katie was the Scottish representative on the adjudication panel for the group song competition while Sophie donned her dancing shoes and picked up third place in the Inter-Celtic Solo Dance Competition. She also performed whistle and step dance live on RTE Raidió na Gaeltachta where the pair did an interview in Gaelic and Gaelige with Irish presenter Máirtín Tom Sheáinín.

Christine Primrose

TALL A NAN ONORACH H

F A

Air a togail ann an Càrlabhagh air taobh siar Leòdhais, tha Christine air a bhith a’ seinn òrain Ghàidhlig bhon a bha i na nighinn bhig agus b’ ann as dèidh dhi Bonn Òr an t-Seann Nòis a bhuannachadh aig a’ Mhòd ann an Dùn Dèagh ann an 1974 a thòisich i air an rathad phroifeiseanta, leis a’ chiad chlàr aice, Àite Mo Ghaoil, a’ nochdadh ann an 1982. Tha fìor dhlùth cheangal air a bhith eadar Christine agus Sabhal Mòr Ostaig fad bhliadhnaichean mòra, bhon a thòisich i mar Rùnaire san t-seann Shabhal suas chun an latha an-diugh far a bheil i air a bhith a’ teagasg air a’ cheum BA (Urram) Gàidhlig agus Ceòl Traidiseanta bho 1990 agus gu cunbhalach air na cùrsaichean goirid a tha a’ ruith aig àm na Càisg agus tron t-samhradh. Chaidh an clàr ùr aig Christine, Gràdh is Gonadh – Guth ag Aithris, a chur air bhog aig tachartasan ann an Dùn Èideann agus aig Sabhal Mòr Ostaig as t-samhradh. Tha an clàr, a chaidh a chlàradh le Temple Records, a-nise ri fhaighinn fad is farsaing agus gheibhear fiosrachadh mu na cùrsaichean seinn aig Christine airson 2018 air làraich-lìn Sabhal Mòr Ostaig www.smo.uhi.ac.uk/gd/cursaichean/cursaichean-goirid/

One of Gaelic singing’s greatest voices, Christine Primrose has been a highly respected and sought after performer since the 1970s and has brought Gaelic song to a worldwide audience. Her new album, Gràdh is Gonadh – Guth ag Aithris (Love and Loss – A Lone Voice), was recently released and Christine was also inducted into the 2017 Scottish Traditional Hall ofealain Fame #Tosta2016 at a special ledinner held in Mar phàirt denMusic phròiseact Donostia/San Glasgow in October. Sebastián (European City of Culture2016), agus ann an coZENNA TAGNEY

Sàr-sheinneadair Gàidhlig a tha air cliù a chosnadh dhi fhèin bho na seachdadan, tha ainm agus guth Christine Primrose aithnichte ann an iomadach ceàrnaidh dhen t-saoghal. Nochd an clàr ùr aice, Gràdh is Gonadh – Guth ag Aithris, bho chionn ghoirid agus chaidh a stèidheachadh ann an Talla nan Onorach ann an Ceòl Traidiseanta na h-Alba aig cuirm shònraichte an Glaschu san Dàmhair.

bhanntachd le Golden Tree Productions sa Chòrn, tha Sabhal Brought in Carloway the west coast of bi Lewis, Christine hasZenna MòrupOstaig air lethon toilichte innse gum an neach-ealain been Tagney, singing Gaelic songs since she was a young girl and it was air as a’ Chòrn, an seo mar Neach-ealain Lèirsinneach after Mhuinntireas winning the Traditional Gold Medal at the Royal National Mod bho 27 Gearran gu 1 Giblean. in Dundee in 1974 that she began singing professionally, with the release her debut album, Àite Mo seachd Ghaoil, dùthchannan in 1982. ‘Seofco-obrachadh ealain eadar Eòrpach aig a bheil dlùth cheangal leis a’ mhuir a th’ ann an Tosta2016. Tha na cothroman air Mhuinntireas airson ceanglaichean chultarach Christine has had very close ties with Sabhal Mòra Ostaig for manyagus eadar choimhearsnachdan mhion-chànain bhrosnachadh years,aire since starting work here as a PA in the early days, and now a thogail do #DSS2016. teaches on the BA (Hons) Gaelic and Traditional Music course, which she has done since 1990. Christine also leads very popular part ofclasses the panduring European arts project #TOSTA2016 with GaelicAssinging the Easter and summer short courses Donostia/San Sebastián (European City of Culture 2016), and in at the college. partnership with Golden Tree Productions, Sabhal Mòr Ostaig is delighted have Zenna Tagney, from join and us asLoss Visual Her new album,toGràdh is Gonadh – Guth agCornwall, Aithris (Love Artist in Residence from 27 Feb to 1 April. – A Lone Voice), was launched at events in Edinburgh and Sabhal Mòr during the summer. The album, recorded by Temple Records, is an artistic collaboration seven of Europe’s is nowTosta2016 widely available and information andbetween dates for Christine’s small language nations with strong maritime traditions. singing courses for 2018 can be found on the SMO website - The aim of the residencies is to promote cultural exchanges between www.smo.uhi.ac.uk/en/cursaichean/cursaichean-goirid/ minority language communities and to spread the values of the #DSS2016.

NA H-EALAIN An Cuan Sgìth

The Little Minch

’S e pròiseact ealain lèirsinneach dà bhliadhna a th’ anns A’ Chuan Sgìth, le iomlaid eadar daoine òga Bun-sgoil Shlèite san Eilean Sgitheanach, agus Bun-sgoil Bhaile a’ Mhanaich, Beinn na Faoghla. Bha a’ chlann ag obair còmhla ris an luchd-ealain proifeiseanta Julie Brook, Cèit NicDhòmhnaill agus Kath NicLeòid (Oifigear Leasachaidh Ealain SMO) anns a’ Ghàidhlig, fo stiùir Lasair Ealain agus le taic bho Shabhal Mòr Ostaig.

An Cuan Sgith is a two year visual arts exchange project between young people from Bun-sgoil Shlèite, Skye and Bun-sgoil Baile a’ Mhanaich, Benbecula. The pupils worked with professional artists Julie Brook, Kate Macdonald and Kath MacLeod (Arts Development Officer SMO) through the medium of Gaelic, led by Lasair Ealain and supported by Sabhal Mòr Ostaig.

’S e amas a’ phròiseict a bhith a’ brosnachadh agus a’ toirt chomasan do dhaoine òga ann a bhith a’ dealbhadh na h-àrainneachd aca fhèin, ag obair le luchd-ealain proifeiseanta gus na beachdan aca fhèin a chur an cèill agus tuigse ùr air àite an àraich a thogail.

The aim of the project is to inspire and empower young people to draw their own environment, working with professional artists to encourage their individual forms of expression and a greater understanding of where they live.

An dèidh sreath de bhùthan-obrach a’ dealbhadh agus a’ peantadh nan àrainneachdan aca, thadhail clann Bun-sgoil Shlèite air clann Bheinn na Faoghla fad 3 latha, agus a’ chlann faighinn chothroman obrachadh còmhla ris an luchd-ealain aig caochladh àite, falbh gu tachartasan feasgair sa Ghàidhlig agus a’ togail chàirdeasan ùra. Aig deireadh an turais, ghabh sgoilearan Bhaile a’ Mhanaich an aiseag thar a’ Chuain Sgìth gu ruige an Eilein Sgitheanaich, a’ dealbhadh còmhla ris a’ chloinn Sgitheanach agus na tìdsearan aca air a’ bhàta.

After a series of drawing and painting workshops in their own landscapes the children from Bun-sgoil Shlèite visited the pupils in Benbecula for 3 days enabling the children to work together with the artists in different sites, share evening activities through Gaelic and make new friends. At the end of the visit the Balivanich pupils made the ferry journey across to Skye over An Cuan Sgìth (The Little Minch) drawing on the ferry with the Skye pupils and their teachers.

Dh’ionnsaich gach buidheann mar a chruthaicheas iad pìosanealain de dh’àiteachan sònraichte san àrainneachd, stèidhichte air dealbhan leabhair-sgeidse, agus a’ chlann a’ co-obrachadh air dealbhan mòra gual-fhiodha.

Subsequently each group learnt how to create compositions of specific areas of their landscape based on a number of their sketchbook drawings, enabling the children to collaborate and work together on large scale charcoal drawings.

’S e na leabhraichean-sgeidse, dealbhan frèamte de mheud A1, dealbhan mòra gual-fhiodha agus fiolm den phròiseact a bhios mar phàirt den taisbeanadh, agus iad a’ sealltainn turas ealanta agus fiosaigeach na cloinne, ann an Taigh Chearsabhagh, Uibhist a Tuath agus Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, an t-Eilean Sgitheanach, ann an 2018.

The sketchbooks, framed A1 drawings, large scale charcoal compositions and a film of the project will form the exhibitions that express their artistic and physical journey, in Taigh Chearsabhagh, North Uist and Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, Skye in 2018.

Chaidh am pròiseact seo a mhaoineachadh le Bòrd na Gàidhlig, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Young Films agus Lasair Ealain.

The project has been funded by Bòrd na Gàidhlig, Western Isles Council, Young Films, Lasair Ealain.

AN CUAN SGÌTH |THE LITTLE MINCH January February 2018 13 Faoilleach 24 Gearran Gailearaidh Gallery

1&2

Fosgladh agus Cèilidh Teaghlaich. Fàilte romhaibh. 12 Faoilleach, 7-9f aig Taigh Chearsabhagh Cuideachd aig Sabhal Mòr Ostaig Also showing at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig

11 Cèitean 23 May

Ògmhios June

2018

THE ARTS Neach-ealain Jon Schueler ’S e an neach-ealain lèirsinneach David Lemm an Neach-ealain Air Mhuinntireas fo Sgeama Còmhnaidh Jon Schueler 2017, a tha air a bhith ruith aig Sabhal Mòr Ostaig fad còig bliadhna a-nis. Gu ruige seo, tha còrr is 1200 luchd-ealain às a h-uile ceàrnaidh den t-saoghal air iarrtas a chur thugainn airson pàirt a ghabhail sa chom-pàirteachas ionmholta seo eadar SMO agus Urras Jon Schueler. Bha leasachadh na Cille Bige ri taobh na Colaiste, a’ chiad bhaile ùr anns an eilean fad 100 bliadhna, air ùidh Lemm a ghlacadh. Anns na trì mìosan trang a bha e an seo, chùm e bùthobrach tarraing dhealbhan/coiseachd le sgoilearan Bhun-sgoil Shlèite is iad a’ rannsachadh na Cille Bige san àm a dh’fhalbh, san latha an-diugh agus san àm ri teachd, thaisbean e a chuid obrach ann an seisean stiùidio fosgailte, sgrùdaich e an àrainneachd mu thimcheall an t-Sabhail Mhòir agus choinnich e ri muinntir na sgìre is luchd-obrach na Colaiste airson cur ri a chuid rannsachaidh. Stèidhich e a shaothair anns an stiùidio aig FÀS air rudan ùra an lùib tarraing is dèanamh dhealbhan, chuir e measgachadh de dhòighean-obrach gu feum agus leasaich e a chomasan lèirsinneach fhad ’s a bha e air a chuairteachadh le cànan air nach robh e eòlach. Bheachdaich e air mar a tha a’ Chill Bheag an impis atharrachadh mar àite agus na dh’fhaodadh a bhith an lùib sin. Bha e air a bheò-ghlacadh leis an ‘stairsnich’ ann an cultar na Gàidhlig agus ann an seagh na b’ fharsainge. Bidh e a’ taisbeanadh toradh a chuid obrach sa Ghearran 2018 anns an atrium aig Sabhal Mòr Ostaig. Thèid an tuilleadh fiosrachaidh a sgaoileadh sa Bhliadhn Ùir.

Artist in Residence Visual artist David Lemm was the 2017 Artist in Residence under the Jon Schueler Residency Programme, which has been running now for 5 years at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig. To date more than 1200 artists have applied from around the world to experience this unique partnership between SMO and the Jon Schueler Charitable Trust. Lemm was particularly intrigued by the idea of a village being created around Sabhal Mòr, Kilbeg; the first planned new village in Skye in 100 years. In a busy three months he hosted a drawing/walking workshop with Sleat Primary School exploring the past, present and future of Kilbeg, shared his works in progress during an open studio, explored the landscape around SMO and met with various local people and college staff to inform his research. In his studio at FAS, he focused on experimenting with drawing and making, using various techniques and developing his visual orthography whilst surrounded by an unfamiliar language. Thematically he primarily considered the current liminal state of Kilbeg - standing at the threshold of becoming a place, and what that might mean. He was particularly drawn to the idea of ‘threshold’ in the context of Gaelic culture as well as in the broader sense. He will be exhibiting the outcomes of his stay in February 2018 in the atrium at SMO. Keep an eye out for details.

FESTIVAL DE MÙSICA DE BUNYOL A SMO aig Fèis Chiùil Bunyola

SMO perform at Festival de Mùsica de Bunyola

Bha seann oileanaich a cheumnaich on chùrsa BA Gàidhlig is Ceòl Traidiseanta ann an cuideachd Stiùiriche a’ Chùrsa, Dr. Decker Forrest, agus oileanaich is luchd-obrach Shabhal Mòr Ostaig airson cuirm-chiùil ann am Mallorca aig deireadh an Dàmhair. Chaidh a’ chuirm a chumail mar phàirt de ‘Festival de Mùsica de Bunyola’, an 33mh fèis de a seòrsa, anns am bi caochladh seòrsa ciùil às gach ceàrnaidh den Roinn Eòrpa.

Former students from the BA Gaelic & Traditional Music course joined Programme Leader Dr. Decker Forrest and current students and staff for a concert in Mallorca at the end of October. The concert was part of the 33rd annual ‘Festival de Mùsica de Bunyola’ which features a wide range of music from all over Europe.

’S e an t-Ollamh Boyd Robasdan, Prionnsapal Shabhal Mòr Ostaig, aig an robh ceangal leis an fhèis anns a’ chiad dol a-mach agus aig an robh càirdeas fad iomadh bliadhna ri stiùiriche na fèis, Tomeu Quetgles Pons, a tha na sgoilear agus na neach-iomairt airson ath-bheothachadh na Catalanais ann am Mallorca. Tha Tomeu air a bhith a' rannsachadh ath-bheothachadh mhion-chànanan fad a chùrsa-obrach agus tha e air tadhal air Sabhal Mòr Ostaig iomadh turas. Bha cothrom an lùib na cuirme airson ceòl, òrain is dannsa nan Gàidheal a thaisbeanadh ann am Mallorca agus Sabhal Mòr Ostaig a riochdachadh mar bhuidheann chultarail a tha a’ brosnachadh na Gàidhlig. Am measg an luchd-ciùil a bha a’ cluich cuide ri Dr. Decker Forrest (a’ phìob/an fhìdeag/an tromb), bha Ellen NicDhòmhnaill (òrain) às Inbhir Nis, Murchadh Eòghainn Camshron (giotàr/mandola) à Gleann Eilg, Anna Raonaid NicDhòmhnaill (òrain/a’ chlàrsach) à Tiriodh agus Sophie NicSteaphain (dannsa-ceuma) à Cill Chuimein. Thuirt Dr Decker Forrest, “Bha sinn airson sealladh farsaing de chuid de na prìomh ionnstramaidean is ruitheaman ann an ceòl na Gàidhlig a thaisbeanadh agus blasad de dh'òrain na Gàidhlig. Bha an luchd-èisteachd uabhasach brosnachail agus chòrd e ri na bha an làthair. Rinn sinn trì encores mus robh againn ri ràdh gu modhail gur mithich dhuinn a bhith a’ stad!”

The connection came through Professor Boyd Robertson, Principal of Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, who has had a long association with festival director Tomeu Quetgles Pons who is also a scholar and leading figure in the revitalisation of the Catalan language in Mallorca. Tomeu has been studying the regeneration of minority languages throughout his career and has visited Sabhal Mòr Ostaig a number of times. The concert was an opportunity to showcase traditional Gaelic music, song and dance in Mallorca and to represent Sabhal Mòr Ostaig as a cultural agency which promotes a minority language. Performing in the concert along with Dr. Decker Forrest (bagpipes/ whistle/jew’s harp) were Ellen MacDonald (song) from Inverness, Murdo Ewan Cameron (guitar/mandola) from Glenelg, Anna Rachel MacDonald (song/clàrsach) from Tiree and Sophie Stephenson (step dance) from Fort Augustus. Dr Decker Forrest, Programme Leader BA Gaelic & Traditional Music, said: “The aim was to give a broad overview of some of the main instruments and rhythms of Gaelic traditional music and a sense of what the Gaelic language sounds like when sung. The audience was very enthusiastic and deeply appreciative. We performed perhaps three encores before we politely asked them if we could call it a night!”

Leabhraichean ùra gan cur air bhog Chaidh trì leabhraichean ùra a chur air bhog le triùir den luchd-obrach againn fhèin san t-Sultain:-

New books launched at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig Three new books were launched by three members of SMO staff in September:–

Richard Cox leis an leabhar gràmair ùr aige, ‘Geàrr Ghràmar na Gàidhlig’ Richard Cox with his new book on Gaelic grammar, ‘Geàrr Ghràmar na Gàidhlig’

Iain Urchardan leis an cruinneachadh sgeulachdan aige, ‘Breab, Breab, Breab’ John D Urquhart’s collection of stories, ‘Breab Breab Breab’

Coinneach Lindsay leis an fhoillseachadh as ùire aigesan, A’ Choille Fhiadhaich Coinneach Liandsay and his latest publication, ‘A’ Choille Fhiadhaich’

Alasdair MacMhuirich – Bonn Òr Alasdair Currie – Gold Medal

Seònaid NicDhòmhnaill – Tosgaire na Bliadhna Janet Macdonald – Gaelic Ambassador

Ross Christie – Neach-ionnsachaidh na Bliadhna Ross Christie – Learner of the Year

Dealbhan le Wyvex Media / Photography by Wyvex Media

Am Mòd Nàiseanta Rìoghail 2017 / The Royal National Mòd 2017 Meal-a-naidheachd air na h-oileanaich, an luchd-obrach agus na h-urrasairean a bha soirbheachail aig a’ Mhòd anns a’ Ghearasdan. Congratulations to all students, staff and trustees who were successful at this year’s Mòd. Ruairidh MacCarmaig – Treas àite, Bonn Òr Ruairidh Cormack – 3rd place, Gold Medal Sgioba Dràma an t-Sabhail – Treas àite, Dealbh-chluich; Dreach Stèidse as Fheàrr; Bekah NicLeòid, Bana-chleasaiche as Fheàrr SMO Drama Group – 3rd place, Best Play; Best Stage Presentation; Bekah Macleod, Best Actress Hannah NicRath – A’ chiad àite, Seinn Aon-neach (Luchdionnsachaidh) Hannah Macrae – 1st place, Solo singing (Learners)

Sgioba iomain na Gàidhlig Chuir a’ Cholaiste taic ri sgioba iomain na Gàidhlig, Alba, bho chionn ghoirid le seat ùr lèintean a bhios a’ sanasachd a’ chànain fad is farsaing. Thuirt Iain Tormod MacLeòid, “Tha sinn fìor thoilichte an taic seo a chur ri sgioba iomain na Gàidhlig aig Alba. Roimhe seo, tha a’ Cholaiste air a bhith ann an com-pàirteachas le Colmcille agus buidhnean eile gus tachartasan a thaobh cànan agus ceòl Gàidhlig na h-Alba agus na h-Èireann a chur air adhart agus tha e cheart cho iomchaidh gun cuireamaid ar taic ri iomairt a tha a’ brosnachadh cleachdadh na Gàidhlig agus na Gaeilge ann an spòrs mar iomain.”

Gaelic shinty team The college recently provided the Gaelic Shinty team, Alba, with a new set of strips which will carry the name of Sabhal Mòr Ostaig far and wide. John Norman MacLeod commented: “We are delighted to be able to support Scotland’s Gaelic shinty team. The College has previously collaborated with Colmcille and other such organisations to promote Gaelic/Gaeilge language and music events and it is equally fitting that we support an initiative that encourages the use of Gaelic/Gaeilge in sport such as shinty.”

Màiri NicIllebhraithe – Dàrna àite, Seinn Aon-neach (Luchd-ionnsachaidh) Mairi Macgillivray – 2nd place, Solo singing (Learners) Calum MacColla – Treas àite, Seinn Aon-neach (Luchd-ionnsachaidh) Calum McColl – 3rd place, Solo singing (Learners) Anndra Dòmhnallach – A’ chiad àite, waltz Ghàidhlig air a’ bhocsa; dàrna àite, MSR air a’ bhocsa Andrew MacDonald – 1st place, Gaelic waltz on the accordion; MSR on the accordion Sandaidh NicDhòmhnaill Jones – A’ chiad àite, dreach-chiùil airson chòisirean; a’ chiad àite, Seinn Aon-neach - Bonn Tìm an Òbain Sandy Macdonald Jones – 1st place, Choral arrangement; 1st place, Solo singing (Oban Times medal)

SORAIDH SLÀN FAREWELL

Soraidh Slàn le Buill a’ Bhùird

Farewell to SMO Board Members

An dèidh deich bliadhna, tha triùir bhall den Bhòrd Stiùiridh air seasamh sìos. ’S iadsan an t-Oll. Máire Ní Annracháin, Éadain Ní Mháille agus Cairistìona Walker. Bha Éadain na Cathraiche air a’ Bhòrd san dà bhliadhna mu dheireadh agus bha i na h-Iarchathraiche grunn bhliadhnaichean roimhe sin. Bha Máire na cathraiche air Comataidh Foghlam is Rannsachaidh a’ Bhùird agus bha Cairistìona Walker gu mòr an sàs san iomairt gus inbhe ionad treànaidh luchd-teagaisg a chosnadh dhan Cholaiste. Tha sinn fada an comain Éadain, Máire is Cairistiona airson na rinn iad thar nam bliadhnaichean gus amasan an t-Sabhail a thoirt gu buil.

After ten years of service, three members of the Board of Directors have stepped down – Prof. Máire Ní Annracháin, Aideen O’ Malley and Christina Walker. Aideen was Board Chair for the past two years and was for many years previously, Vice Chair. Máire chaired the Board’s Academic Committee and Christina was heavily involved in the successful initiative to secure teacher education institution status for the College. We are greatly indebted to Aideen, Máire and Christina for their service over these years.

MEAL A NAIDHEACHD

CONGRATULATIONS

Meal a naidheachd air Catrìona NicNèill, oileanach PhD Shoillse aig Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, a bha soirbheachail ann an deuchainn labhair air 9.11.17. Rinn Catrìona rannsachadh thar còig bliadhna air Telebhisean mar ghoireas poileasaidh cànain: air a chleachdadh aig cloinn dà-chànanaich. Congratulations to Catriona MacNeil, Soillse PhD student at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, who was successful in her oral exam on 9.11.17. Catriona undertook research over five years on the subject of television as a tool for language policy: used by bilingual children.

Chithear san dealbh Catrìona fhèin, Tim Armstrong, agus dithis dhen luchd-sgrùdaidh – Will Lamb agus Gillian Rothach. Pictured are Catriona, Tim Armstrong and two of the examiners – Will Lamb and Gillian Munro.

Alumni an t-Sabhail Tha sinn air leth toilichte a bhith a’ cur air bhonn comann luchd-ceuma Shabhal Mòr Ostaig agus tha sinn a’ toirt cuireadh dhuibh a thighinn an lùib coimhearsnachd mheasgaichte de chòrr is 1000 oileanach a tha air ceumnachadh bho Shabhal Mòr Ostaig thar nam bliadhnaichean. Tha sinn ag iarraidh ceanglaichean anns a’ choimhearsnachd againn a dhèanamh nas làidire agus lìonra a chruthachadh far an tèid agaibh air ceanglaichean a dhèanamh le oileanaich eile a bh’ aig an t-Sabhal agus fios fhaighinn air na naidheachdan ’s na tachartasan as ùire. An lùib ballrachd comann an luchd-ceuma, gheibhear cothrom air ìsleachadh prìs air bathar ann am bùth na Colaiste agus sa bhùth air-loidhne, cho math ri ìsleachadh prìs air cùrsaichean goirid, modalan air astar agus cùrsaichean iar-cheuma. Tha a’ Ghàidhlig aig teis-meadhan feallsanachd Shabhal Mòr Ostaig agus bheir seo cothrom dhuibh na càirdeasan is ceanglaichean a rinn sibh aig an t-Sabhal a dhaingneachadh is an cur gu feum nur beatha pearsanta agus nur cuid-obrach.

We are delighted to launch the Sabhal Mòr Ostaig Alumni association and invite you to join a diverse community of over 1000 students who have graduated from Sabhal Mòr Ostaig over the years. We wish to strengthen ties in our community and create a network whereby you can reconnect with other students who were at SMO and also keep updated as regards news and events at the college. By becoming a member of SMO’s Alumni association you will also receive discounts and offers for SMO’s shop and online shop, short courses, distance learning modules and postgraduate courses. Gaelic is at the heart of all we do at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig and being part of the Alumni association will give you the opportunity to reaffirm friendships made while here and build on that network both personally and professionally.

Airson a bhith nad bhall de Alumni SMO, cuir fios gu To become a member of SMO Alumni, please e-mail

alumni@smo.uhi.ac.uk

Mas ann air post-d a b’ fheàrr leibh a’ chuairt-litir fhaighinn cuiribh fios gu litir@smo.uhi.ac.uk If you would prefer to receive an electronic copy of the newsletter please email litir@smo.uhi.ac.uk Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, Ionad Nàiseanta Cànan is Cultar na Gàidhlig • National Centre for Gaelic Language & Culture Slèite, An t-Eilean Sgitheanach, Alba IV44 8RQ • +44 (0)1471 888000 • fios@smo.uhi.ac.uk • www.smo.uhi.ac.uk Tha Sabhal Mòr Ostaig na chompanaidh earranta clàraichte ann an Alba, àireamh 361752. Àireamh Carthannas Albannach Clàraichte SC002578. Sabhal Mòr Ostaig is a company limited by guarantee, registered in Scotland Number 361752 Registered charity no: SC002578.

Dealbh aghaidh le Ross Christie Cover image courtesy of Ross Christie Dealbhte le CGS| www.canan.co.uk