Kellie gets the springtime blues

Acclaimed blues guitarist and singer Sir Peter Erskine will perform live in the place that so inspired his ancestor.

Kellie and Cambo Estate in nearby Kingsbarns have been linked for centuries, through the Erskine family connection.

And there’s a further link, as Sir Peter is a trustee for the National Trust for Scotland, the charity that cares for Kellie Castle.

Sir Peter, who has played on every continent, is celebrating 50 years of performing from the Star Hotel to Perth Blues Club in Western Australia.

On the night – March 18 at 7pm – he’ll be playing a mixture of originals and standards, and will be accompanied by a harmonica player.

Sir Peter is looking forward to following in his forbear’s footsteps. He said: “My ancestor, Thomas Erskine, studied music under Johann Stamitz in Mannheim with Hayden and, between 1760s and 1790s, his music was played in the salons of London, New York, Paris and St Petersberg.

“It was not just music that Thomas enjoyed, as he was a celebrated bon viveur and fellow member with Robert Burns of the Capillaire Club which was ‘composed of all who inclined to be witty and joyous’.

“It seems very appropriate to celebrate this musical legacy at Kellie.”

An informal supper will be served. Tickets cost £27.50 and can be booked in advance by calling 01333 720271 or online at http://www.nts.org.uk/Events/Kellie-Castle-and-Garden/Nostalgia-an-Blues/.

The 14th century castle, which was once home to the Earls of Kellie has magnificent plaster ceilings, painted panelling and fine furniture once designed by Sir Robert Lorimer. It also features a long-concealed mural by the celebrated arts and crafts pioneer, Phoebe Anna Traquair.

There’s plenty to discover outside the castle too. Visitors can take a stroll in the magical arts and crafts garden and enjoy the scent of old roses and the beautiful herbaceous boarders growing harmoniously next to fruit and vegetables, all of which have been managed using organic methods for over 20 years.