Musical Mornings With Mil’s Trills

• Kelly Apter
• 2 August 2014

This article is from 2014.

Gentle introduction to the world of music

As adults going to live music shows, we have countless opportunities to hear strong vocals, consummate musicianship and original material.

Younger audiences, however, seem destined to be fed an endless diet of recorded music and age-old rhymes. But not when Amelia Robinson is in town. The New Yorker arrived in Edinburgh armed with her ukulele, a beautiful singing voice, an album of new songs and long list of guest musicians – all ready to share and, in the best way possible, educate.

It’s a refreshing combination which feels a million miles away from ‘The Wheels on the Bus’ – yet still retains all the crucial child-friendly elements.

On the day I visited Robinson’s musical world, the stunning guitar and percussion player Declan Zapala introduced his instrument, and accompanied Robinson as she read from a music-themed picture book. With many more guests to follow.

Robinson herself is a source of boundless enthusiasm and friendliness, able to communicate with, and encourage, her young audience, while still giving the grown-ups sitting next to them something to enjoy.

Pleasance Courtyard, 556 6550, until 17 Aug (not 11), 10.30am & 11.30am, £7--£9 (£6.50--£7.50).