Alex Atterson

Born 14 April 1931, Cambusbarron, Stirling, Scotland, died 21 September 1996, Norwich, Norfolk, England. Traditional singer Alex Atterson played his part in keeping the Scottish folk canon alive with his spirited interpretations of the poems of Charles Causley and old-time ballads. Originally he trained as an industrial chemist, and this work led him first to Peterborough and then Norwich, where he settled permanently. He was a prime mover behind the establishment of the Norwich Folk Festival in the late 60s, at which time he also became a professional performer for the first time. One of his great achievements was in attracting high-profile acts for the Norwich Festival, which finally ended in 1982, without promising remuneration. During this time he had recorded two albums of his Scottish folk songs, the best of which was 1977’s Pushing The Business On. However, two years later he had to abandon professional singing to take up more secure work as a teacher. By the time he retired in July 1996 he had risen to be head of science at Acle High School.