Spectacular tradition Scottish folksong and authenticity

Abstract

This paper explores the heritage, changing nature, and re-inscription of traditional practices. It highlights the processes through which Scottish song traditions have moved from being everyday, unremarkable practice to public spectacle and tourism performance. An historically grounded analysis of contemporary folk festivals and events in Aberdeenshire demonstrates how the content of folksong has become ever more fixed at the same time as performances have been re-signified to represent the region to both locals and tourists. The paper also traces out the processes of the spectacularization of tradition and the movement of individual songs from agricultural landscapes, through field, archive, and edited collection to contemporary folk festival and public display. © 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.