Book excerpt: An essential addition to the dance tune library and an important milestone in traditional music publishing. This volume of almost 600 strathspeys, jigs and reels has been compiled from the original collections published between 1784 and 1822 by Niel and Nathaniel Gow, the father and son violinist/composers. Niel Gow revolutionized Scottish music by inventing a new style of bowing, known as the ‘up-driven’ technique, that accented the unique strathspey rhythm. Besides the invaluable contributions of the Gows, other important Scottish composers such as William Marshall and Donald Dow are featured, as well as some of the more important tunes in the traditional Scottish repertoire. This unique collection also features detailed notes on the life and times of Niel and Nathaniel Gow, an analysis of the ‘up-driven’ bow technique, the origination of the strathspey as well as a complete discography and bibliography. This book will prove an invaluable addition to your repertoire and home library.