Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 16 Jan 14 - 11:22 AM

Hi John,
You might like to check out Youtube as there are now a number of the Bitter Withy songs on there: posting this on this the first day of this year's Celtic Connections Festival (not to be confused with the sadly defunct radio programme also called Celtic Connections).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZOtRQbCbYI

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,John Rodgers new Australia
Date: 15 Jan 14 - 07:21 PM

I am saddened to learn of the death of Lesley Hale. Our paths crossed many years ago in early 1965 in Sydney Australia. I loved her singing and she taught me several songs. Unfortunately our lives went in different directions. I wish it had been otherwise.

To her family I offer my condolences. She was such a lovely person and great fun to be with.

John Rodgers
[e-mail]
Jan 2014

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,Kenny Weir, Ayrshire
Date: 02 Dec 09 - 03:10 PM

Have just learned from Tich frier's website of Lesley Hale's sad passing.
My wife and I were great fans of The Bitter Withy in the seventies and still try and catch Tich when we can.
I never met Lesley but having read through this thread, it's very clear what an extraordinary and well-respected person she was, both professionally and personally.
May I extend our sincere condolences to rebecca and all family and friends.

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,Al and Nancy McCalder, Alberta, Canada
Date: 01 Dec 09 - 12:54 PM

This morning I heard a tune on a local radio station that Lesley used to sing, and so I googled her name to find an email address. I was deeply shocked to learn of her death on October 9, and my wife and I are saddened by the loss of such a wonderful soul.

We first met Lesley in the winter of 1978 while we were students at the U. of Edinburgh. Early in January of that year we attended a delightful evening of Scottish folk music. After the performance we approached Lesley, said how much we enjoyed the music, and inquired if there was a club where we might go to hear more. She was extremely warm and gracious, and invited us to attend the Edinburgh Folk Club. And we did so faithfully each week night while in Edinburgh, and met many, many terrific people through the club. While it has been more than 30 years, we still remember with great affection our evenings with Lesley and her pals - you all became our extended family.

My wife and I returned to Scotland some 18 years later with our two young sons. Ever the friend - even after so many years apart - Lesley insisted we stay with her and Rebecca at her wee flat in Edinburgh during our first week. Such was the nature of this wonderful lady. And we were thrilled to host Becky the next year for a vacation in Western Canada (lots of prairie and a few mountains thrown in for some variety).

Some people affect us in ways that leave us with a sense of wonder and awe. Lesley Hale was such a soul to these Canucks. We will always remember her warmth, her music and her friendship. We extend our sympathies and love to Becky.

With deepest respect and affection, Al and Nancy McCalder, Alberta, Canada

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,Andy MacDonald Inverness
Date: 18 Nov 09 - 12:06 PM

Sorry, I didn't mean to post the poem anonymously. I've posted already on this thread.

Andy

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: Pistachio
Date: 18 Nov 09 - 10:19 AM

Would be nice to know who you are Guest 08.10am. I like the verses above, particularly the image of melting snowballs!

I've been listening to Lesley's 'Reaching' CD today, the tracks 'Survival','Reaching' and 'Getting through the days'are currently stuck in my mind.

Hazel.x

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST
Date: 18 Nov 09 - 08:10 AM

None of our lives are the same as each others
Although sometimes they touch in between
Shared moments, old haunts, distant memories
Friends like brothers, feelings deep, sincere and unseen

Any measure of gladness and joy in our lifetimes
Is tinged with the sadness of loss of a loved one.
We can care, we can share, we can laugh, love again
At the end of the process, we're alone with the pain

Pain itself's like a snowball,
it can roll ever downward and grow
Till it's vast and consuming and lethal
Overwhelming all in it's path, and below

But, the memories of the lives that are taken
Are golden, like rays of the sun
They can melt a whole hillside of snowballs
And herald a dawn that's serene.

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,DR FRED FREEMAN
Date: 08 Nov 09 - 03:12 PM

I had the privilege of knowing Lesley over several decades and collaborating with her from about 1985. What a lovely person and a tremendously gifted musician! She shall be sorely missed. In many respects she was one of the central figures of the Scottish folk movement. I 'phoned her only days before she died to say what a great person and great talent she was; with characteristic humility she waved me off, exclaiming only that it was 'good of me to say so'. Would that we had more of her kind amongst us in the present day. FRED FREEMAN.

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 25 Oct 09 - 07:55 PM

It was a very moving and fitting tribute to Lesley last Tuesday, with the recordings of her songs as an integral art of the service. And a lovely and very composed eulogy from Rebecca. It was so apparent that she was held in such high regard by so many.

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,GeoMac
Date: 25 Oct 09 - 11:44 AM

I spoke to Lesley at the Nitten Club earlier this year(at the Karine/Annie/Karen gig). It was the first time I'd seen her since the Bitter Withy days.
The honesty and warmth of her voice is something to be treasured.
So sad.

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: RoyH (Burl)
Date: 23 Oct 09 - 08:08 AM

Just back from the USA and shocked and saddenend to read this news. Lesley was a lovely singer and a lovely person. I am grateful that I knew her as a friend. Rest in peace dear Lesley. Rebecca, you can be very proud of your Mum.

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,Rebecca Hale, Lesley's daughter
Date: 23 Oct 09 - 06:32 AM

Sorry, correction on the above: I meant the LATTER 2 CDs.
(beg yer pardon Charlie & Ian!)

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,Rebecca Hale, Lesley's daughter
Date: 23 Oct 09 - 06:23 AM

Apart from the tape cassette 'Find Me An Island' released in the 70s, Lesley (Mum) did have 3 CDs made since (not including her covers of some Burns sings alongside other artists in 'The Complete Sings of Robert Burns' by Linn Records). The other 3 CDs were not distributed commercially but included 'First Cuts' with Charlie Milne and Ian Bruce; 'Reaching'; & 'The Lasswade Sessions', all songs on former 2 were written & composed by herself.
I and my fiance plan on putting together a 'Best Of' CD for her some time soon.

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,cheerydavie
Date: 23 Oct 09 - 05:04 AM

It was with great sadness that Lesley has passed away we will all miss. Lesley was a great singer sadly she never released any cds R.I.P Lesley

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: Scully
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 02:47 PM

Lesley was given a wonderful send off today.

She'd have loved it.

It was a privilege to share in the celebration of her life.

G.

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,Irene Gilson
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 07:23 PM

It was my fortune to meet Lesley about a year ago not long after taking up the guitar. I must be only one of many who are still playing the guitar because of Lesley. Without her support and encouragement I would have given up the frustrating instrument which I now enjoy greatly. She was a warm and friendly inspiration and I will miss her loads. Sincere condolences to you Rebecca.   Regards Irene

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,simon cavanagh
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 02:31 PM

my deepest condolences to you Rebecca, thinking of you ,best regards Simon.

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,Gus Langlands.
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 07:53 PM

I was lucky enough to meet Lesley way back in the early 70s and the news of her tragic death only reached me around 12 hours ago. She had a great talent, was a fine human being and a warm friend. We shared some great times together, especially in those earlier days and her departure will leave a permanent hole in the landscape of Scottish folk music. I will miss her. I still can't believe she's gone. She truly was one of a kind. Rebecca, this is SO very sad. You have my profound sympathy.

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,Guest
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 06:15 PM

Although I knew Lesley for around 10 years or so, much to my regret we didn't actually speak for the last year or so. Regardless of where we ended up, the friendship we shared in the past was a wonderful gift I will always be very grateful for. I benefited greatly from her support through difficult times, argued with her and bumped up against her single mindedness/stubbornness on more than one occasion (like for like, some would say), laughed with her, cried with her, had amazing songs written by her for me, shared my last holiday with her, learned to find my voice with her help and guidance, and can honestly and wholeheartedly say it was a real privilege to know her, in all her glorious ways. My most sincere condolences to Rebecca and Ash.

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,Kathy Haldane
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 03:22 PM

Knew Lesley from University Library.
Will not be able to attend funeral on Tuesday as friends from Holland are arriving here at 11 a.m. There is a two month old baby and 4 young children coming,cannot expect them to wait for two hours till we arrive back.

Becky, I remember you from work experience at the library, you did very well.
I was all on my own for months at the library. Hope all is well with you. Sorry to hear about you mum. Kathy

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,Rebecca Hale
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 09:17 PM

For anyone who can make it to the funeral, the wake afterwards will be at Lodge Newbattle, 26 Newbattle Road, Newtongrange, EH22 4RW. Munchies and drinks included. Some from the local folk clubs will likely be bringing their instruments too so feel free. Cheers.
Rebecca

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,Gordon
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 10:10 AM

I only had the pleasure of knowing Lesley for a few years through Loanhead Guitar Club. During that time I never failed to be amazed by her seemingly effortless ability to take any song and make it her own. I consider myself very fortunate to have known Lesley and to have heard her perform her own lovely songs on many occassions - memories that I will treasure. She was always so generous with her knowledge and experience and really gave me confidence to develop as a singer. I don't think I would be singing today if it wasn't for Lesley Hale. Sadly missed. Gordon.

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: Joe Offer
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 09:37 AM

I've received a request to delete the message from Maxine Thomson, but I can't really see justification for doing that. It would have been nice if the reaction to her post had not been so strong, even if it is understandable. The reaction was far more inappropriate than the original comment, and I have removed the strongest of the reaction messages.

In obituaries as at funerals, the best way to respond to an inappropriate comment is with silence - not with attempting to silence the person who misspoke.

Please let my message be the end of the controversial comments in this thread.

-Joe-

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,padgett on lap top
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 05:32 AM

I am so sorry to hear this

I spoke to Tich at Saltburn ff last year re Rose of York and would say that Yorkshire Garland wish to include this fine song, on our website the words as defined by Lesley.

I never met Lesley, but she and all involved seem to be very much atuned to the tradition and social history

I do hope that no one has any objections?

I as a Yorkshire man sing this for Yorkshire Garland

www.yorkshirefolksong.net will get my email address

Thanks
Ray Padgett ~ Barnsley, Sth Yorks

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 02:30 AM

Very sad to hear of Lesley's death. She was a great encouragement to many of us at Loanhead Guitar Club. After seeing her truly amazing performance at guest night at "nitten" I was inspired to my own first attempt at song writing, a song called "Hidden Talent" for which Lesley very kindly wrote the tune.

She'll be missed by many.
Derek

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: Jim McLean
Date: 14 Oct 09 - 10:23 AM

I, too, am saddened by the news and wish to pass my condolences to Lesley's family and friends. Jimmie MacGregor brought the Bitter Withy to me, early 70s I think, and I recorded them on my NEVIS label. A couple of years back there was a thread which Lesley contributed to so I PMd her for her address which she sent me. I sent her the master tape of the LP to do what she wanted with it but never received an acknowledgement. Perhaps Tich knows about this.
The credits on the LP, by the way, are "The Rose of York" (Music Lesley Hale: Words Ken Thomson).
Again, my condolences.

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,Tich Frier
Date: 13 Oct 09 - 02:38 PM

Lesley's funeral will take place on Tues 20th Oct. 11.00am. Main Chapel, Mortonhall Crematorium. Edinburgh. It was Lesley's wish that black should not be worn so bright colours please.

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,Ashley
Date: 13 Oct 09 - 11:44 AM

Maxine

You are welcome to your opinion, however if Lesley added a tune to the lyrics she deserves credit, whether you like the version or not. If there are various versions with different tunes then each one should be credited and respected on their own merit.

However, your attitude and behaviour is quite vicious, which is totally perplexing.

However, regardless of what Lesley did or didn't add to the song, your conduct is disrespectful.

No more comments on this particular subject, lets stick to the obit.

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: Effsee
Date: 12 Oct 09 - 09:56 PM

Mrs Thomson, your post is totally out of order on an Obit thread.
Had you wished to start a new thread on the subject that would have been more appropriate.
Shame on you!
And I think your late husband might have agreed with me.

Is there any information as to the funeral arrangements?

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: stallion
Date: 12 Oct 09 - 06:48 PM

Maxine,
So thanks for the tune Lesley and thank you for the words Ken. Sorry to hear about Ken, must have hit you pretty hard, Rebecca must be feeling rather dreadful at the moment too.
Peter

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: eddie1
Date: 12 Oct 09 - 04:38 PM

Hey Maxine
You've got the right Eddie.

Good to hear from you but a pity it's for an unfortunate reason.
I bow to your superior knowledge.

Keep well.

Eddie

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,Maxine Thomson
Date: 12 Oct 09 - 01:58 PM

Sorry to contradict, but The Rose Of York was written entirely by my late husband Ken Thomson (Ed FC founder chair and SB Broadsheet Edit or) to fit a tune by Jimmie McGregor and LH added a saddo wee tune several years later.

If you are an Eddie of the W?Ship variety, I can understand where you have been misinformed!!??

Best regards

M T

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,mgill
Date: 11 Oct 09 - 07:58 PM

Ken Thompson died in December 2007 and I missed the opportunity at his 'wake' to speak to Lesley whom I knew since the mid sixties.
I sold her my Yamaha FG180 for £20 and a chinese meal in 1974
and I believe she sold it on to Tich in later years!
She re-introduced herself to me at the Edinburgh Folk Festival on the staircase of the Student's Union in 1989 and we went to the Royal Oak that night and had a smashing time in the company of the 'Cruickshanks', Paddy Bell and others and sadly, that was the last time I met that warm, cuddly, big voiced singer and big person who was Lesley Hale!

rest easy Lesley xxx

mgill

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,Andy MacDonald Inverness
Date: 11 Oct 09 - 04:30 PM

Would just like to add my own feelings of loss at the news. Lesley was a good friend and we shared lots of laughs and good times over the years. She guested the Inverness Folk Song Club and the Market Bar here often. Whole and part "Withy Re-Unions" often impromptu were the order of the day. Her warmth and wit filled any room. She will be sorely missed. My condolences to Rebecca whom I met briefly once. She has much to remember and be proud of as she says.

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,Jim
Date: 11 Oct 09 - 10:13 AM

I think I can speak for everyone at Loanhead Guitar Club, when I say how much Lesley will be missed. She was a valued and much loved member, always willing to give generously of her time and knowledge, while at the same time keen to learn from others. I initially felt nervous playing in front of someone of her calibre, but I needn't have, she was always very supportive and encouraging. She always added something extra to music sessions. Not only did she write wonderful songs, but she had a knack of making any song she chose, her own.

Jim

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST
Date: 11 Oct 09 - 08:53 AM

Hello everyone
We woke this morning to a message from Karen Dietz with the sad news of Lesley's death. I had the privilage of knowing Lesley and being a co-judge with her on several songwriting competitions where her self effacing comments and wit alone made the events worthwhile. She was such a positive and supportive person. I last saw her at a singaround in Penicuik a couple of months back and I was so glad to see her friendly face and when she walked in I knew I would enjoy the evening. We all know that music isn't the whole measure of a person and I am certain that the loss that all of her friends on the music scene are feeling is nothing compared to the loss for her family but I also know that we have also lost a wonderful songwriter.

We'll miss her.
Tom & Jane Fairnie

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,Rebecca Hale, Lesley's daughter
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 02:45 PM

Hello Everyone,
Elaine from Nitten Folk Club told me today about this thread. I've just read all your comments and would like to say thank you so very much for your kind words and thoughtfulness. I remember Mum telling me only a couple weeks ago about how people ask for and love her songs, she then shrugged her shoulders and said "I dunno why" ! Self-conscious as she sometimes was, I know she would have been delighted by your comments and from such a wonderful crowd of people as I've never failed to see in the folk scene. I was always very proud of her. Promise to keep y'all informed.
xx

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,Rich Hickey
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 01:08 PM

It's a sad day. Lesley was one of the central memories I had of the Nitten Folk Club. We stayed in contact for a while after I moved back to the States. In fact she sent me a copy of one of her latest CD's to enjoy. I'd listen and think of the times at the Dean Tavern. Thi is a great loss to the folk music scene.

My heart and best wishes go out to her family, friends, and everyone at the Nitten Folk Club.

Rich Hickey

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: stallion
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 08:26 AM

We never met but we did record "Rose of York", it is the song most often requested and gets the most hits on our myspace site.
Thanks for your songs and rest in peace.
Peter , Ron & Martin

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 07:09 AM

Also feeling very sad at such a loss to the music world. Lesley had only recently retired, and was so looking forward to having more time for music.
I first met Lesley when I started to go to Nitten Folk Club about 8 or 9 years ago. She has been wonderfully supportive of other musicians, writers and singers, young and not so young. She also set to music some of the poems of John Haldane Sr, including "The Fields of France" about the shell-shocked men of WW1: as a song with Lesley performing it, it won the Edinburgh Folk Club songwriting competition in 2008.
She fought her illness with great strength and positivity.
A lovely tribute was made to her by Sheena Wellington at Balerno Music Festival last night: Sheena sang "I Hae been at Crookie-Den", one of the tracks that Lesley had recorded for Fred Freeman's massive undertaking to record all of Burns songs (on CD 4 of 13. track 16).
Trish

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: GUEST,Gillian Anderson
Date: 09 Oct 09 - 02:57 PM

Too sad to say much just now.
It was a privilege to know Lesley and share her songs
and I know that "Nitten Folk" will not be the same without her.
We'll keep her music alive.
Be at peace on Your Island.
Gillian and family.

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: Pistachio
Date: 09 Oct 09 - 02:46 PM

So Sad. My twin sister Gillian telephoned with the news only minutes ago.

Lesley gave me songs to sing. I first heard her on a cassette recording that played at the Stirling Castle visitors centre where I worked, back in 1976. When I left work I kept the cassette.

I sang Find me an Island quite a few times over the years and, when my twin sang it at an Edinburgh folk club maybe 10 years ago, it transpired that a lady listening, actually worked with Lesley. Gillian contacted Lesley (who's guitar was "in the wardrobe with a broken neck") and after a few weeks Lesley returned to singing at the Dene Tavern, Newtongrange, or 'Nitten' as it is better known.
She has been a stalwart at Nitten ever since.
I finally got to meet her in person soon after that. What a lovely lady, she gave joy to many and was a wonderful friend to my sister's family.

Lesley recorded a CD 'First Cuts' with Charlie Milne in 2003 and a solo CD 'Reaching' in 2007.

With Lesley's permission I recorded 'Find me an Island' on CD in 2006.

Gillian said that Lesley was at Nitten last Thursday - and she died this Thursday on the Club night. Rest in peace, and out of pain.

Much love to Rebecca, and thanks Lesley, for your songs.
Hazel Richings. x x
(Hissyfit)

Subject: RE: Obit: Lesley Hale 9 October 2009
From: Linda Kelly
Date: 09 Oct 09 - 02:06 PM

I met her once but Find me an island is a wonderful song Hazel will miss her greatly.

Subject: Obit: Lesley Hale
From: eddie1
Date: 09 Oct 09 - 10:55 AM

Just received an e-mail from Tich Frier another member of the great Bitter Withy.
"Broken hearted to report that Lesley Hale passed away this morning.
She was diagnosed with abdominal cancer earlier this year and although she fought hard, she went downhill very quickly in the last few weeks.
I'll let you know the funeral arrangements when I get them."

Another loss to Scottish folk music. I'm sure there are many out there will remember "Find Me An Island" and "Rose of York", the song she co-wrote with Kenny Thompson.

I'll miss you Lesley - so long, it's been good to know you.

Eddie