Shetland-Music.com

Perhaps the most important element of Shetland traditional fiddle music is its unique components, including the many different musical strands that go to make up the overall recognised Shetland tradition.

Gibby Hutchison

And they don't come any more unique than Gibby Hutchison from the island of Whalsay on Shetland's east coast. Now in his mid-eighties, but still going strong, Gibby is one of the few surviving islanders who still plays in the traditional Whalsay style and fashion.

Most of the music that developed (if that's the right word) within the island from the late part of the 19th century was, as elsewhere in Shetland, used for dancing, especially Shetland Reels or 'Springs' as they were known.

Gibby was very much part of the islands musical traditions, playing at weddings, dances etc either in his own right or with the bands of the day (he is still in one today) and as such soaked up and inevitably became an integral part of the islands musical heritage.

He released his debut album 'Eenies Springs' at the age of 82 and there is now discussion of a follow up. He now mainly performs with his son John Hutchison (once guitarist with Fiddlers' Bid) who, in turn, has learned the unique Whalsay style from his father and who will hopefully maintain the tradition in years to come.

Gibby, who retains many memories of musical times gone by, not to mention a wicked sense of humour, still performs live, both in a solo capacity and with a local band in Whalsay, and is a regular participant at Shetland Arts 'Shetland Fiddle Frenzy' festival.

A true character indeed, both musically and personally.