Alasdair Fraser, the legendary Scottish fiddler and longtime director of the San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers, is preparing for his final bow after 40 years of fostering musical community.
His farewell concerts, scheduled at Angelico Concert Hall in San Rafael on April 26 and Sonoma Country Day School’s Jackson Theater on April 27, promise an emotional celebration of traditional Scottish and Celtic music.
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Fraser’s commitment to connecting people through music has evolved a small gathering of enthusiasts into a vibrant family of 200 musicians.
Whether you’re a devoted fan or new to his work, this event is much more than a concert—it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in a living tradition.
Alasdair Fraser: A Musical Legacy Rooted in Marin
For Marin residents, Fraser’s influence stretches beyond the notes of his fiddle.
His leadership of the San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers began in 1986, when casual gatherings in his home transformed into a community of musicians dedicated to keeping Celtic traditions alive.
Fraser’s vision was clear: music is a bridge across generations and cultures, a shared language that sustains not only heritage but connection.
While his concerts often span the Bay Area, Marin County has become synonymous with his efforts to make Scottish music accessible and engaging.
Towns such as Mill Valley, Fairfax, and Sausalito have been home to workshops and collaborations that have deepened participation in Celtic traditions.
Fraser’s work has undoubtedly placed Marin County on the map as a hub for Scottish music enthusiasts.
The Power of Tradition: Honoring the Past, Energizing the Future
Fraser’s approach to traditional Scottish music is deeply philosophical. He often speaks of honoring the past while allowing every new generation to reinvent and reinvigorate the tradition.
This ethos forms the backbone of the San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers, where seasoned virtuosos and enthusiastic amateurs alike come together to explore a shared cultural heritage.
At the upcoming farewell concerts, the ensemble will feature acclaimed cellist Renata Bratt alongside 2019 U.S. National Scottish Fiddle Champion Caroline McCaskey.
Both musicians exemplify Fraser’s commitment to supporting talent across skill levels.
The performance is an open invitation for music lovers near and far—from Novato to Tiburon—to join this thriving community and become part of something timeless.
What to Expect at the “Stravaig” Concerts in Marin and Beyond
The two farewell concerts—dubbed “Stravaig,” a Scots word meaning “to roam or wander”—are not merely designed to entertain but to inspire.
Hosted in San Rafael’s Angelico Concert Hall and Sonoma Country Day School’s Jackson Theater, these events capture Fraser’s spirit of inclusion and celebration.
Attendees can look forward to:
- Dynamic performances blending fiddles, cellos, and other instruments.
- A mix of classical expertise and raw enthusiasm from musicians of all levels.
- Authentic Scottish musical traditions steeped in community storytelling.
Families from Corte Madera to Larkspur are encouraged to attend, with free admission for children under 12 accompanied by adults.
Fraser’s philosophy is clear: traditional music thrives when shared, especially with younger generations.
Building Community Through Shared Experiences
What sets Fraser’s work apart is his ability to create not just music but connection.
With nearly 100,000 monthly Spotify listeners, Fraser’s reach extends far beyond Marin County, yet his concerts retain a uniquely intimate feel.
He views music as far from trivial, calling it “part of our DNA”, with the capacity to unite people regardless of age or background.
For Marin dwellers, this sentiment resonates. Fairfax and San Anselmo have long been hubs for cultural gatherings, and Fraser’s work fits seamlessly into the fabric of community-driven events that define the county.
His farewell concerts invite attendees to join the continuum of those who celebrate tradition while carving new paths forward.
How to Participate in Fraser’s Musical Sendoff
If Fraser’s story strikes a chord, now is the time to connect with his vision firsthand.
Tickets for the “grand ceilidh” are priced at $32-$35, making it an accessible evening for families across Marin County.
Those in Ross or Greenbrae considering a family outing will appreciate the free admission for children under 12—a gesture designed to ensure that tomorrow’s musicians can absorb today’s traditions.
Whether you’re a seasoned music enthusiast from San Rafael or someone new to Scottish melodies in Belvedere, Fraser’s final concerts provide a rare opportunity to engage with a living legend.
Beyond the performances themselves, the events represent an invitation to step into the vibrant world of Celtic music and potentially become a part of this community.
A Final Bow That Feels Like the Beginning
As Alasdair Fraser retires from his role as director, he leaves behind a legacy rooted firmly in Marin County and extending far beyond.
For residents of places like Kentfield and Olema, Fraser’s music reminds us that tradition is not about preserving the past but nurturing a shared future.
His decades of dedication have sown the seeds for countless gatherings and collaborations to come.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this historic moment. Join Fraser, the San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers, and the wider Marin community in celebrating a lifetime of music that connects us all.
Here is the source article for this story: Fiddler on the Move, Alasdair Fraser and Friends Celebrate Tradition
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