Mairi Campbell: Pulse

Mairi Campbell is a woman with more musical ability in her little finger than most of us have in our entire bodies. She can make music from classical to ceilidh come to life with effortless beauty, her viola seeming an extension of her own arm.  

In Pulse she takes us through her musical journey, from stuffy classical training to rhythmic epiphany. She talks, dances and sings. She has a wry humour and makes for good company. But the one thing she doesn’t do enough is play. 

This, of course, is not a recital. It’s a sharply written piece of storytelling, co-devised with Kath Burlinson. And Campbell’s story makes for a compelling one; it’s rooted in Scotland and reveals the deep connection between the land and the music. Her discovery of step dancing in Canada provides a direct link to home, and prompts a fine display of the ancient form.

For all its enchantments however, the show is short on the music that underpins the story. The few glimpses we do get are superb. And they serve to make a mockery of her Guildhall teacher’s instruction to keep her feet still – how could she? 

Fans of Campbell's work will no doubt find this an enlightening hour that gives the music valuable context, while the uninitiated will leave itching to hear more from her bow. But then perhaps that's the point.