On May 29, 2016, in the swelter of a late May heat wave, Atlantic Voices celebrated a giant among Canadian songwriters, Cape Breton’s own Allister MacGillivray. One of Cape Breton’s true artistic treasures, MacGillivray is the composer of Maritime classics such as Song For the Mira, Coaltown Road, Song for Peace and Away From the Roll of the Sea.
We presented a selection of his most popular songs, as well as other treasures from the MacGillivray songbook, newly arranged especially for this concert. We were thrilled to be joined by special guest Ciarán MacGillivray, Aliister’s son and member of The Cottars as well as our friends from the Castenchel Choir.
Fumblin’ Fingers got the crowd warmed up (even though it was a scorcher) and then the choirs joined together to start the afternoon off with Song for the Mira. From there we sang songs of life in Cape Breton, leaving Cape Breton and even songs about song. Our usual tea included plenty of homemade goodies and treats and our silent auction had plenty of interesting items.
Thank you to all who attended and to all the volunteers who helped make the day such a huge success.
| Ode to Newfoundland |
| Song for the Mira |
| Songs of Home |
| Coal Town Road |
| They Had Neither Pole Nor Paddle |
| Hannah |
| Away From the Roll of the Sea |
| No. 26 Mine Disaster |
| Sea People |
| Song for Peace |
| We Rise Again (Castenchel Choir guest appearance) |
| All Canadian Now |
| Bye, Bye, My Island |
| Arm of Gold |
| Tie Me Down |
| Here’s to Song |
| Song for the Mira (reprise, sing-along) |
The program for this concert is divided between two files. You can access the cover here and the body here.