What's Happening?
Oscar McLennan, a Glasgow songwriter, has turned to music to cope with the grief of losing his three-year-old son, Ian, who died in a tragic accident in 2020. After the incident, McLennan found himself
unable to write songs and instead created an instrumental album titled 'Snow on the River.' The album, which features over 30 musicians, was inspired by a line from Tam O'Shanter and serves as a tribute to his son. McLennan describes the music as a way to feel his son's presence and as a source of comfort during his mourning. The album has been performed in several churches in Ireland and will be showcased at the Celtic Connections festival in Scotland.
Why It's Important?
The story highlights the therapeutic power of music in dealing with personal tragedy. McLennan's experience underscores the role of creative expression in processing grief and finding solace. The album not only serves as a personal healing tool for McLennan but also resonates with others who have experienced loss, as evidenced by its use in funerals. This narrative illustrates the broader impact of art in providing emotional support and fostering community connections through shared experiences of loss and healing.
