Soak your senses with the lyrical sounds of the Scottish Highlands as contemporary folk singer-songwriter Rachel Sermanni brings a slice of life from across the seven seas at her live performance, this evening

Scottish singer Rachel Sermanni (19) is in the city as part of the Troikala project where she is collaborating with percussionist Bickram Ghosh and Assamese folk singer Papon for an upcomingu00a0 album and concert tour. It is an initiative by the British Council and Folktronic. In her conversation with The GUIDE, she spoke about her early beginnings, major influences and collaborations. Excerpts from the interview:


Scottish singer Rachel Sermanni. Pic courtesy/ Tommy N Lance

Can you tell us about your musical journey so far?
My exposure to music began from an early age. After leaving school I decided to take a year's break and play songs in Glasgow. It felt like the right thing to do. Opportunities came up and so I have remained on this 'road'.
I live in a village in the Highlands just south of Inverness called Carrbridge. It is ensconced in a valley, under constant watch of the old, blue mountain range, The Cairngorms. I like its wild weather and the walks.
It allowed my innocence to reign and ring like a bell, much easier than it would have anywhere else. It is also a place were creativity is encouraged. I am sure this connection has a presence in what I write
and sing.

What were your major inspirations?
I am certain there is a Scottish influence in my songs. I love where I come from, but it doesn't define the boundaries of what I write. I was brought up singing hymns in church, playing traditional music in school and now I find myself in Glasgow amidst many circles of musicians -- traditional, Jazz and contemporary. So, I am influenced by everything around me.