Composer of traditional Fiddle Music and Clock maker
By Moyra Cowie
Illustrated by John Scott Sutherland
Published with the assistance of Moray Council

William Marshall was one of Scotland's greatest composers of traditional fiddle music. He excelled both as a fine musician and composer, with more than 250 tunes to his credit.

Born in very poor circumstances in the old village of Fochabers, his tenacity and desire to better himself shone through in his life's achievements. While Butler to the Alexander 4th Duke of Gordon and his famous wife Jane Maxwell, Marshall learned the basics of astronomy, mechanics, horology, architecture and falconry. Later he rose to the rank of house steward at Gordon Castle, Fochabers (then in Banffshire) and travelled extensively with the aristocratic "Gordon family." Not only did he organise their travel arrangements, but also he had sole control of all household accounts and staffing while the family resided in Edinburgh and London.

During the late 18th century, Marshall and his family left the secure environment of the Castle and farmed at Burnside of Tynet on the Braes of Enzie. Following this they moved to the farm of Keithmore on the Duke's estate of Achindoune and the Cabrach. One year later he became Factor on the Duke's lands of the Cabrach, Glen Rinnes, Achindoune, Strathavon and Glen Livet.

At Keithmore he wrote his finest collection of traditional fiddle music, published in Edinburgh in 1822.

Sadly some of his more famous musical works were pirated by Niel Gow and his son Nathaniel, e.g. the Strathspey " Kinrara" was renamed "The Countess of Dalkeith."

Marshall was a clock maker of some repute, and his astronomical clock must rank as one of the finest in Britain. However, he is best remembered for his music. His lovely melodies, lively jigs, reels and beautifully crafted Strathspeys will always be played and appreciated by those who love the traditional fiddle music of Scotland.

The book, which reflects the history of the time Marshall lived in, is illustrated with maps, old plans, ledgers, drawings, numerous photographs and 48 pieces of Marshall's music. Particular attention has been paid to the inspiration of all his music and each collection is detailed giving the titles and inspiration.

When delving in to the archives I found some new music. These may be some unknown Marshall pieces. I am grateful to Mrs. Helen Allan of "Arras" Drumossie, Inverness who has carefully transcribed this music for me.

The book will be available from November 1999 at the cost of £9.99 at Moray Libraries and certain bookshops. Copies can also be obtained from Sutherland, 17 Lochy Road, Inverness IV2 4ES (tel 01463 240016), Mrs. J. Cowie "Edindoune," Portgordon, Buckie and Mrs. Kay Griffin, "Ingleholm" High St. Fochabers. (please include £1.80 for P & P) or e-mail me at Scottie.S@btinternet.com.

ISBN 1-901820-03-3

Painting at top of page by J Moir (with permission of National Portrait Galery, Edinburgh)

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