The Paisley weaver poet and songwriter: celebrating Robert Tannahill

Celebrate Robert Tannahill, the Paisley weaver poet and songwriter, with this talk and live musical illustrations from Professor Fred Freeman. Dissenting from prevailing notions that label Tannahill as 'sweetly sentimental,' Freeman's lecture positions him as a major poet who expanded the tradition of British 'rationalist' pastoralism. The lecture explores the significance of traditional Scottish musical forms, including jigs and reels, by delving into the intricate fusion of words and music in Tannahill's compositions. Freeman also probes Tannahill's role in Scotland's multicultural context.

Every year, the Royal Society of Edinburgh explores a key topic through its 'RSE investigates' series, engaging community leaders and experts to tackle pivotal questions. This year, we investigate Scotland's creative industries, examining their role as a catalyst for change and how they help to address contemporary challenges. As Scotland's National Academy, we celebrate interdisciplinary expertise that fosters innovation across sectors like art, literature, technology, academia, and culture. This year’s series highlights the importance of supporting libraries, celebrating literary traditions, understanding architecture's role in identity, and exploring Scotland's impact on countercultural creativity.

SPEAKER

Professor Fred Freeman

Professor of Scots Language and Scots Song at The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland

Fred Freeman is a graduate of Aberdeen and Edinburgh universities (PhD); SAM of St Antony’s College, University of Oxford. Author of a book on the 18th-century poet Robert Fergusson, a children’s book on Robert Tannahill (2009), and over 100 articles on Scottish literature, folk music, and history. Recognised by the Association for Scottish Literary Studies in 2014 with a lifetime Hon Fellowship for his contribution to Scottish literary studies. Producer of some 49 internationally acclaimed CDs, including The Complete Songs of Robert Burns and The Complete Songs of Robert Tannahill.

Important points to note

• This event is suitable for age 16+
• Accessibility Statement: We aim to make events as accessible as possible. If you have any accessibility requirements or any questions about how we can support this event, please contact the RSE Public Engagement team on [email protected]
• Covid-19: In order to prevent the spread of Covid-19 we kindly encourage participants to continue to wear face masks if they feel comfortable to do so; use the hand sanitisers provided at the venue; and to stay at home if they have Covid symptoms or have tested positive for Covid-19.

Host or Publisher The Royal Society of Edinburgh