CUCKOO J. E. JONASSON 1886-1956

The Wonderful World of the Birds

Composer : Johan Emanuel Jonasson (1886-1956)

Jim MacLeod

Pianist and singer Jim MacLeod, from Dunblane in Perthshire made his first broadcast on the BBC "Scottish Dance Music" programme was with the 'Jim MacLeod Quintet in 1955. Beatles producer George Martin produced their first recording in the fifties! MacLeod & his band were regular guests at Balmoral Castle, playing for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth and heads of state at the great Scottish balls. The band made numerous TV appearances and radio broadcasts, and were regular hosts on the Hogmanay (Scottish New Year) party shows.

Jim Macleod became resident band-leader and musical director at one of Scotland's best-known hotels 'Dunblane Hydro' in1963 becoming responsible for all events including television's White Heather Club. The band's regular broadcasts included "Scottish Dance Music", "On Tour", "Radio 2 Ballroom" (where Jim introduced the shows from the stage of Dunblane Hydro), "Friday Night is Music Night" and "Take the Floor". His regular band were:

Jim MacLeod - piano, vocals
Tommy Ford - accordion
Jim Cleland - accordion
John Sinton - double bass
Hebbie Gray - fiddle
Alex Doig - drums