Blair Douglas

Description

In early 1942, 500 Italian prisoners of war arrived on the island of Lamb Holm, Orkney, to work on the construction of the Churchill Barriers. They requested a proper place of worship and were given two Nissen huts to convert. A labour of love, artistic skill, and craftsmanship transformed the two huts into a moving monument to faith and peace – The Italian Chapel (La Chiesetta Italiano di Orkney).

Renowned Skye musician Blair Douglas has for many years been fascinated by the story of the Chapel and composed a suite of music as his tribute to the dedication of the prisoners. The music was performed and recorded in St. Magnus Centre in Kirkwall; the twelve tracks include fiddle, viola, harp, cello and flute arrangements, two pieces by the City of Kirkwall Pipe Band and a beautiful “a Capella” song by The Mayfield Singers. A truly Orcadian experience!