A warm welcome to our new Head of Music Development

Alexander Davidson playing the violin
News and blogs
7th Sep 2026

We're delighted to welcome Alexander Davidson to High Life Highland as our new Head of Music Development, succeeding Norman Bolton, who has retired after 40 years of dedicated service.

Alexander joins us from Moray Council, where he spent the last six years leading the Music Instruction and Performance Team. With almost two decades of experience in instrumental music instruction, he brings a strong track record of supporting young people through music education and performance opportunities.

A violinist himself, Alexander learned to play through school music tuition, an experience that continues to shape his belief in the importance of accessible music education for all young people.

In his own words

Commenting on his appointment, Alexander said:

"I'm delighted to be joining High Life Highland. Having grown up in a small fishing village and learned the violin through school, I am passionate about the impact music can have on young people's confidence, wellbeing and achievement, and about ensuring that children and young people have access to local opportunities to learn, perform and progress.

"I look forward to working with the High Life Highland Music Tuition team, pupils, families and communities across the region to build on the excellent work already taking place and to support the next generation of young musicians."

Alexander said he has already received a warm welcome and is looking forward to getting to know the Music Tuition team, pupils, families and communities across the Highlands. He added: "Together, I hope we can continue to develop and grow the service, ensuring even more young people can experience the many benefits and opportunities that learning and performing music can bring."

I am passionate about the impact music can have on young people's confidence, wellbeing and achievement, and about ensuring that children and young people have access to local opportunities to learn, perform and progress.

Alexander Davidson

Head of Music Development

Getting to know Alexander

Away from work, Alexander enjoys playing both violin and fiddle, particularly traditional Scottish and classical music. A keen runner and outdoor enthusiast, he's also working his way through Scotland's Munros and looks forward to exploring more of the Highlands in his new role.

Alexander Davidson holding his violin
Alexander Davidson

Thank you, Norman

Alexander's appointment comes as we bid farewell to Norman Bolton, whose career with our Music Tuition service spans more than four decades.

Norman's passion, dedication and leadership have made a lasting impact on generations of young musicians across the Highlands, helping countless young people develop their musical abilities, confidence and love of performance.

Norman Bolton speaking alongside young musicians
Norman with pupils at a performance

We'd like to thank Norman for his outstanding contribution to music education in the Highlands and wish him every happiness and success in his well-earned retirement.

High Life Highland Music Tuition provides instrumental music instruction and performance opportunities for thousands of children and young people across the Highlands, supporting musical development, creativity, confidence and lifelong learning.

Norman Bolton meeting The King in Dingwall
Norman meeting The King

Explore music tuition with us

Discover instrumental lessons and performance opportunities for young people across the Highlands.