The Whalsay singing tradition

Across the water, the island of Whalsay has long been known for its songsters. Now a new website has been created all about the singing, rhymes, riddles and the spoken word from the isle. 

Whalsay's robust and very funny sense of humour has frequently featured in concerts around the islands, and now Peter Cooke, who recorded many singers and songs on his frequent trips northwards, has set up the site to showcase the talents of the islanders and to preserve the songs, many of which came from the seafarers in the days of sail ships. 

You can read more about the project here on the Shetland Times website, and visit the The University of Edinburgh website where you can find songs and information.