Sir James (Jimmy) Shand


1908 - 2000

Musician. Born in the Fife coastal village of East Wemyss and later resident in Auchtermuchty, Jimmy Shand became one of Scotland's most popular accordionists and Scottish Country Dance Band leaders. The son of a miner, Shand initially followed his father into the mines, but these ambitions ended with the General Strike of 1926. He began working in a music shop and playing professionally. After World War II, his popularity soared following appearances on BBC television shows, such as the White Heather Club, hosted by Andy Stewart. He had hit albums through the 1950s and 1960s and toured North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand.

Shand was awarded an MBE in 1962, knighted in 1999 and died in Perth Royal Infirmary in 2000.


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