Hector Gilchrist was born into an Ayrshire farming community with a love of music. At an early age, he joined the circle round the piano, entertaining family and friends with the songs and poems of Robert Burns.

Access, via a family connection, to original writings of the Poet, were to remain a strong influence and today he is recognised as one of the foremost exponents of the romantic ballads of his native Scotland many of which are included in his repertoire of Traditional and Contemporary Folk Song.

The offer of a professional career in Music was turned down in favour of study at The West of Scotland College and a Diploma in Dairy Technology.

Making music has however remained entwined with his work commitments and the opportunity of overseas travel has enabled him to build up a fan base in Europe and other parts of the world.

The 60's Folk Revival, resulted in his regular commitments at the Sing Out Folk Club in Crewe, which soon led to engagements throughout the region and his first recording of "Fair Helen of Kirkconnel " on the 1966 Liverpool Festival L.P. During this time, he met with many of the new and established, stars of the Revival and was invited by Ewan MacColl and Peggy Seeger to join them in their musical circle.

A move to Scotland in 1969, saw him welcomed into the Aberdeen Folk Club and the opportunity to meet and sing in concert with Hall and MacGregor and Barbara Dickson and to learn new material from the wealth of local traditional singers such as Jeannie Robertson Arthur Argo The Stewarts, etc.

He has since broadcast on both Local and National radio and appeared at Festivals and Clubs throughout the U.K. and further afield.

In the 80's his work took him to Ireland and a twelve month "residency" at the famous Pipers Inn near Kilaloe on the Shannon. Regular engagements in Ireland over the last ten years to the prestigious Paddy O' Brian Festival in Nenagh and local Singers Circles, have remained an important part of the calendar.

Hector Gilchrist sings ballads in a sensitive and easy style, which can raise strong emotions in the listener. His choice of material is ideal for relaxed listening and enjoyment.