COCKENZIE-based record label Greentrax has produced a collection of Scottish songs on CD, especially for children.

The traditional music company hopes the latest in its Celtic Collections series will be used in schools to help introduce youngsters to Scotland’s rich musical heritage.

From the words of Robert Burns to the lyrics of The Proclaimers, the ‘Favourite Scottish Songs’ collection has been subtitled ‘For a’ the bairns and awbuddie else’ and features versions of classic songs by some great names.

Featuring Sheena Wellington’s live performance of ‘A Man’s A Man’, which was performed at the opening of the Scottish Parliament in 1999, contributions are also made by Rod Paterson and Fiona Forbes with the late Davy Steele.

Greentrax boss Ian Green said that the idea of a collection for children came about after a discussion with Scottish piper Hamish Moore about the need for more Scottish music in schools.

He said: “We wanted a collection that would be a simple tool for teachers to introduce Scotland’s rich song heritage to their pupils.

“Much thought was put into the selection of the songs for this compilation.

“We feel the final selection fits all the criteria and if Scottish children left school knowing at least these songs we would be well satisfied.” The company has already sent out free copies of the collection to a few schools and is awaiting feedback.

It is hoped it will hold talks with more schools after the Christmas break as it looks to roll out the compilation across Scotland.

Mr Green said: “Copies have been given to a few selected schools in East Lothian and Midlothian and we will see the reaction from teachers; so far feedback is very positive.

“Eventually we would like to see the collection used in schools across the country. We are planning to sit down and talk about it in January.” The tracks chosen for the compilation range from traditional to modern and have featured in everything from state occasions to Hollywood movies.

Among the most recently written songs to make the final edition is Karine Polwart’s Follow The Heron.

Mr Green said: “This is a mighty collection of ‘favourite Scottish songs’ widely recorded and to be found in the repertoire of many singers, performed here by some of Scotland’s finest.”