Òrain Luaidh - Waulking Songs

Learn how a single length of wet cloth was ‘Waulked’ by groups of women sitting round a table singing in Gaelic and perhaps learn a few words too. The singing was acapella, this means singing without instrumental accompaniment. A solo singer would lead, singing a question that was in turn answered in a refrain response from the other ladies around the table. The beautiful plaid worn by Lord Mungo Murray in his 1683 portrait by John Michael Wright would have been made in this way. The painting purchase and creation of this film were both made possible through the generous support of the National Lottery Heritage Fund. If you have a spare minute, we’d love to know what you think of our video! You can share your thoughts here: