A remarkable debut novel telling the story of Angus MacKay's (1812-1859) turbulent life - from his boyhood on Raasay, to fame at Queen Victoria's court, to his ultimate battle with mental illness. MacKay is a legendary figure in the history of Scottish music, with his work still celebrated 160 years after his death.
"I piped, that she might dance by Lain MacDonald, with a foreword by Hugh Cheape, is an historical novel based on the life of Angus MacKay (1813-1859), first Piper to the Sovereign, appointed by Queen Victoria. Mackay, who is one of the most significant figures in the history of Scottish music, died after a long battle with physical and mental illness, though he left behind collections of pipe music still played today. This account of his life traces his long journey, from humble origins on the isle of Raasay to the height of fame in Her Majesty's service and beyond. His story is one that has long deserved to be told, and Iain MacDonald has obliged in style. "--