I was sad to learn today (23rd May, 2007) of the death of the great Shetland guitarist "Peerie" Willie Johnson of Lerwick, Shetland Isles, after a long illness.

"Peerie" Willie was a jazzman through and through but also had an enviable reputation as a guitar accompanist on the traditional music scene, who regularly sessioned with the late, great fiddlers Tom Anderson and Willie Hunter. Willie also worked with Aly Bain and appeared many times on television with Aly. Willie's guitar style was studied by many aspiring young guitarists and he was often seen in the thick of sessions surrounded by guitarists anxious to learn his unique style.

Willie's family are anxious that a compilation album of tracks featuring Willie on guitar, gleaned from many sources and currently at an advanced stage, should go ahead as a memorial to a wonderful musician.

"Peerie" Willie's funeral will take place at St Columbus Church, Lerwick, Shetland, at 2.00p.m. on Wednesday, 30th May, 2007.

For further information contact Davie Gardener at davie.gardner@btinternet.com or Tel. No. 07867 654509.

Credit - Cath Mack, Greentrax Recordings.