Photocopy of the manuscript known as the Duke of Perth manuscript, containing 'A collection of countrey dances written for the use of his Grace the Duke of Perth', 1734, followed by 'A collection of the best Highland reels', undated, compiled by David Young., 1734, undated.
Scope and Contents
David Young, writing master in Edinburgh, and subsequently master of the grammar school in Haddington, is known to have made two other later compilations of Scottish tunes: the Young manuscript, [circa 1740], in the Bodleian Library (MS.Don.d.54), and the MacFarlane manuscripts, 1743, in the National Library of Scotland (MSS.2084-2085).
The volume is remarkable for the quantity of material it contains (48 country dances, and 45 reels), for the descriptions of how the country dances should be performed, and for the clarity and accuracy of the musical hand. Young's interest in pipe music can be seen in the settings of the variations for the reels.
Dates
- Creation: 1734, undated.
Conditions Governing Access
Normal access conditions apply.
Conditions Governing Use
Normal reproduction conditions apply, subject to any copyright restrictions.
Extent
84 Leaves ; Quarto.
Language of Materials
From the Series: Undetermined
Arrangement
i + 167 pages.
The collections are arranged as follows:
'A collection of countrey dances written for the use of his Grace the Duke of Perth' (page 1); 'A collection of the best Highland reels' (page 98).
Immediate Source of Acquisition
Photocopy made, 1980, with the permission of the owner of the original, the Right Honourable, the Earl of Ancaster.
Repository Details
Part of the National Library of Scotland Archives and Manuscripts Division Repository
Archives and Manuscript Division
National Library of Scotland
George IV Bridge
Edinburgh EH1 1EJ
0131 623 3700
manuscripts@nls.uk