A film documentary by Stephanie Conn

Faithful to the Song is both an homage to the Gaelic singers of Cape Breton, and an exploration of their tradition's uncertain future.

Peter, Maxie, Roddy and Alan are all over 70, but they spend much of their spare time trying to pass on their centuries-old song repertoire. They get together for rehearsals to help each other remember the songs. They pore over song books, listen to tapes, and tell stories. And they go to classes and workshops, always ready to help the younger people who are trying to learn. Jeff is in his 30s, and is probably the only bard of his generation. Emily and Jody are teenagers who are intrigued by the songs, and proud of their tradition, but who are trying to find a link to the old ways.

The film will include songs sung in Gaelic sung in the traditional unaccompanied way, and in some modern interpretations, as well as the fiddle music that’s so intrinsically linked to the language.

We'll hear from members of the Iona Gaelic singers. We'll talk with young tradition-bearers, and other local Gaelic speakers. We'll also go to song events at the local Fire Hall, and to intimate kitchen gatherings. We’ll hear about their historic performances at the first Newport Folk Festival in 1964.

This is the last generation of Cape Bretoners to be raised in a language which used to be predominant in eastern Canada. Many of their powerful songs were brought over by Scottish settlers, and are remnants of an earlier time -- when life was hard work, family and faith were prized, and life's greatest pleasure was the telling of stories and singing of songs well into the night. Some songs tell the story of love won and lost; others give a glimpse into the culture that reaches back several centuries. The film pays tribute to the Gaelic singers, but also addresses their dilemma. What will happen to the tradition when they are gone?

For information contact: Stephanie Conn
Audio Clips here ; video clips are in the works and available on request