The Gaelic community and beyond were in mourning this week following the death of Kirsteen MacLennan.
A popular Gaelic conductor, singer and teacher, Kirsteen died on Friday October 6, aged 49, following a 15-month battle with cancer.
The mother of two was the daughter of Janet and Hamish Menzies.
Many will remember Kirsteen for her many successes with Dingwall Gaelic Choir at the Royal National Mòd. She followed in her dad’s footsteps, conducting Dingwall Gaelic Choir before setting up the Black Isle Gaelic Choir.
Last year, under her leadership, Black Isle Gaelic Choir won the Margrat Duncan Memorial Trophy at the group’s first outing at the Royal National Mòd in Perth, an incredible feat for a new choir.
The Black Isle Gaelic Choir said: “We are heartbroken after losing our founder, conductor and great friend Kirsteen, who passed away today. Kirsteen’s talent knew no bounds as a teacher, musician and as a conductor, and she was recognised as one of the best conductors in Gaeldom. We are privileged to have experienced this talent first hand.
“She was a beautiful and kind person who was always thinking of others, with her family very much at her core. She leaves behind a precious legacy in the world and also in our own hearts.”
Kirsteen also sang with the nationwide Gaelic gospel choir Soisgeul and The Alba Choir – who were Scotland’s only ever entry in the Eurovision Choir competition.
Following Kirsteen’s passing, An Comunn Gàidhealach released a statement, saying:
“Everyone at An Comunn Gàidhealach is shocked and saddened by the recent death of Kirsteen MacLennan (nee Menzies).
“A wonderful singer, Kirsteen won many individual accolades at the Royal National Mòd, notably winning the Silver Pendant in Airdrie in 1993 and the An Comunn Gàidhealach Gold Medal in Largs in 2002.
“A shining light in the Gaelic choral community, Kirsteen had great success as a member and conductor of Dingwall Gaelic Choir, winning the Lovat and Tullibardine competition on numerous occasions. This success continued at last year’s Mòd in Perth, winning the Margrat Duncan competition as conductor of the Black Isle Choir.
“Kirsteen will be fondly remembered as a true friend to all within the Mòd community and was held in the highest esteem within the Gaelic music scene.
“Her death will leave a huge void at future Mòds.
“Our heartfelt thoughts are with her husband Jamie, sons Finlay and Hector, her mother Janet and her brother John and all the wider family and friends.”