365 Complete Works 21

Aidan O'Rourke is a renowned Scottish fiddler, composer, and producer who has significantly shaped the contemporary folk music landscape. Born in 1975, O'Rourke's musical roots are deeply embedded in the Scottish and Irish folk traditions, particularly the West Highland style. His innovative approach to folk music has earned him numerous accolades, including the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Musician of the Year in 2014 and the Scots Trad Music Awards Composer of the Year in 2011. O'Rourke is known for his work with the award-winning folk trio Lau, as well as his solo projects and collaborations with a diverse range of artists. His compositions and performances are celebrated for their imaginative and strong musicality, continually pushing the boundaries of traditional folk forms. In addition to his performing career, O'Rourke is an educator and researcher, currently teaching at the University of Ulster while pursuing a PhD in composition. His extensive discography and live performances showcase his unique ability to blend tradition with innovation, making him a standout figure in the world of folk music.