A new chapter for music education across the Highlands has begun with Alexander Davidson taking up the role of Head of Music Development at High Life Highland.
Davidson succeeds Norman Bolton, who has retired following 40 years of service supporting generations of young musicians across the region.
He joins High Life Highland from Moray Council, where he spent the past six years leading its Music Instruction and Performance Team.
With almost two decades of experience in instrumental music instruction, Davidson brings considerable experience of helping young people develop through music education and opportunities to perform.
His connection with music began in much the same way as many of the young musicians he will now help support.
A violinist, Davidson learned to play through school music tuition after growing up in a small fishing village, an experience which continues to influence his belief that music education should be accessible to every young person.
Alexander said:
“I’m delighted to be joining High Life Highland.
“Having grown up in a small fishing village and learned the violin through school, I am passionate about the impact music can have on young people’s confidence, wellbeing and achievement, and about ensuring that children and young people have access to local opportunities to learn, perform and progress.
“I look forward to working with the High Life Highland Music Tuition team, pupils, families and communities across the region to build on the excellent work already taking place and to support the next generation of young musicians.”
Davidson said he has already received a warm welcome and is looking forward to getting to know the people behind music tuition throughout the Highlands.
He added:
“Together, I hope we can continue to develop and grow the service, ensuring even more young people can experience the many benefits and opportunities that learning and performing music can bring.”
Music remains part of Davidson’s life away from work, with both violin and fiddle among his interests and traditional Scottish and classical music particular favourites.
He is also a keen runner and outdoor enthusiast who is working his way through Scotland’s Munros, giving him plenty of opportunity to become acquainted with the Highland landscape in his new role.
His arrival also marks the end of an extraordinary era for High Life Highland’s Music Tuition service following Bolton’s retirement.
Across more than four decades, Bolton’s work, leadership and enthusiasm helped generations of Highland youngsters develop their musical abilities, confidence and love of performing.
High Life Highland has thanked him for his contribution to music education across the region and wished him well in retirement.
Its Music Tuition service continues to provide instrumental instruction and performance opportunities for thousands of children and young people across the Highlands, with Davidson now taking the baton for the next chapter.
High Life Highland Music Tuition provides instrumental music instruction and performance opportunities for thousands of children and young people across the Highlands, supporting musical development, creativity, confidence and lifelong learning
