Biography
Ishbel comes from the Point area of the Island of Lewis. She was brought up with the rich heritage of centuries old Gaelic music and song which still survives in Point and indeed all over the island of Lewis. Her music and culture are immensely important in her life and for several years she was very much involved in teaching traditional Gaelic singing to children at the numerous Feisean (festivals of music and song) throughout the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.

She fervently believes this approach to be a positive contribution to the revival of the language. She is deeply motivated by the rich beauty of her heritage of Gaelic music and poetry. She is especially moved by the intensely emotive quality of the poetry and, through her unique delivery, manages to convey to her audiences a feeling of involvement in the colourful history and culture of the Gael.Her particular style of  unaccompanied, traditional singing, her numerous radio and television performances and countless world-wide live appearances has established her position as probably the best known Gaelic singer today.Regular appearances in her leading acting role in the Gaelic television drama, Machair, has also made her familiar to Scottish television viewers.

Her singing takes her to venues throughout the U.K., Ireland, Europe, The Far East  and North America. Her recordings are always in demand at home and abroad and significantly, sell to people who have never before heard the Gaelic language. Whether her audience is Gaelic speaking or not her English introductions to these centuries old songs of love, war, sea and landscape, exile and life itself make each one a memorable experience.