For the musicians who need to read from music they can use iPads. The singers and the storytellers have it memorised and committed to the brain.

The song gained enormous popularity and became a beloved Scottish anthem, often performed at events and gatherings. The song captures the contrast between the industrial aspects of the river, symbolized by the hammers ding-dong, and the scenic landscapes and leisurely activities associated with it. At first it felt a bit alien, a bit austere. The chat over a coffee didn’t happen and the general hubbub in the room became quite silent, people would sit and read their phones or rehearse their music to themselves. Finbar & Eddie Furey, Bill Clifton, Cyril Tawney and many others benefitted from this. Throughout this time Fraser was developing his career in the Construction Industry. It was a busy but very enjoyable life.It also takes a timely look at the Clyde’s role in slavery in a family-friendly, accessible performance. The river Clyde and its significance for shipbuilding played a crucial role during World War II when it became a major hub for ship production to support the war effort.

An added bonus to the tale Karen found out while composing it alongside writer Allan Dunn, was that a Scottish Opera colleague had their own link to the original song. In 2007, the song was used as the official theme for the British film "The Rising: Ballad of Mangal Pandey." An early 'booth' recording led to the release of several singles on EMI's Parlophone label. He joined the Carl Rosa opera company, where his performance of the opening aria from Rossini's Barber of Seville resulted in his promotion to principal tenor. He went on to make more than 30 LPs between the mid-1950s and the early 1980s. These ranged from mainstream classical and religious songs, through Broadway musicals to the Scottish popular tradition of Robert Burns and Harry Lauder. In a British House of Commons debate in 1994, Labour Member of Parliament Jimmy Hood ( Clydesdale) recalled the song in a debate about coal mining, however refrained from acceding to members' requests that he sing it. [1]Outdoor gigs are always hilarious,” Karen said, “especially if the musicians need to have music. I remember once playing in Stranraer Harbour. My music ended up in Ireland, the wind swept it away! We have a 10-day return policy, which means you have 10 days after receiving your item to request a return. The Song of the Clyde" continues to be enjoyed and sung at Scottish events and gatherings, keeping the spirit of the river and its significance alive. In the late 1970s the ‘real’ job became very serious and Fraser was transferred by his employer to a senior position based in London. This was a huge step up for him which he could not refuse. However, it meant severing his connection with the folk scene. Whilst it was a very prestigious job, it didn’t fit in with his musical life so he resigned after two years and decided to have a go at being a full time performer.

Karen said: “Sometimes the rehearsals were a little bit like me shouting in a megaphone. It was fine, we were in a large room and we were restricted to eight people. The Song of the Clyde" is a heartfelt tribute to the river Clyde, which holds great significance and fond memories for the singer. The lyrics depict the beauty and importance of the river as it flows through various Scottish towns and landscapes. The song begins with the singer expressing their happiness to be near the river and how they hold a deep affection for it. They mention that of all Scottish rivers, the Clyde is the dearest to them as it stretches from Leadhills to the sea.One thing that the production will have to adapt to is being outdoors, something the rehearsals haven’t factored in.