Choral group celebrates Scottish poet with song and spirits

Published 1:30 am Wednesday, January 13, 2016

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The 18th century bard of Scotland, Robert or Rabbie Burns, made his mark as a lyricist, pioneer of the Romantic movement and as Scotland’s national poet. Since 1802, six years after his death, the Burns Supper has been held to celebrate the man who penned the New Year’s song “Auld Lang Syne” and, Scotland’s unofficial national anthem, “Scots Wha Hae.” The celebration is marked by toasts and ample servings of haggis.

If haggis doesn’t whet your appetite, then perhaps you can wet your whistle with Scottish ale brewed by Seattle’s Naked City at the Vashon Allied Arts event “Robert Burns Chorus” slated for 7:30 p.m. Saturday at the Blue Heron.

The group whateverandeveramen will lead the evening in song and storytelling about the life and work of the famed poet.

Brad Pierson conducts the group, which he founded in 2012 as a project-based Seattle ensemble dedicated to performing high-quality choral music in venues not typical for the music. Pierson’s goal was to inspire a new appreciation for choral music, and he often will invite audience members to sing along rather than just be spectators.

The singers will lead the evening of Burns’ songs plus other traditional Scottish and Irish drinking ditties. No prior experience is necessary as the songs will be taught throughout the event.

The Burns tribute, sponsored by Vashon Allied Arts, is becoming an island tradition though the show is for adults 21 or older only. Tickets are $14 for VAA members, $16 for seniors and $18 for general admission. Visit vashonalliedarts.org or the Blue Heron to purchase tickets.