Kilberry guitarist wins national jazz title

Timmy is one of seven children and although his mum, Judy, encouraged them all to play music, they had no connections with the industry and Timmy had to work hard for the success he has now achieved.

“This award is extra special as he’s achieved this through his own hard work and determination,” Judy said.

“He had great teachers that encouraged him – Mrs Kelly at Achahoish introduced him to the guitar when he was nine and Morna Whyte helped him continue and develop. There was a whole buzz about music in Argyll that got to all my kids.

“Timmy has been so courageous pursuing music as a career. His dad was a builder and a couple of his brothers went into that trade, but music was always Timmy’s passion.”

Timmy also credits his childhood in Argyll as having a huge impact on his music career.

He said: “Music has always been a solace for me since primary school. I couldn’t wait to get home each day so I could spend time with my guitar. 

“Kilberry, where I used to live, was miles away from any of my pals from school so it gave me the opportunity to spend loads of time with my instrument.

“Jazz and improvisation have always interested me, but I love most styles of music and I try to take inspiration from all disciplines.”

Now 28, Timmy has been making a name for himself in the Scottish jazz scene playing regularly in all the favourite jazz haunts of Glasgow and Edinburgh.

“I go to some of his gigs,” Judy added. “He invites me, his 72-year-old mum, to see him playing in Glasgow, but he didn’t want us in the audience at the BBC competition as it can make him nervous. But it was exciting listening to it live on the radio. 

“We’re all so excited, he’s worked doggedly – this has been a long time coming.”