Mention of the name David McCallum is more likely for most people to conjure up images of the actor, star of The Men from U.N.C.L.E., Sapphire and Steel and other cult TV shows. While he has made recordings, as singer, conductor and arranger, he inherits his musical interest and ability from his violinist father. David McCallum senior (1897-1972) was the leader of the Scottish Orchestra in the 1930s before Beecham approached him to replace Paul Beard at the LPO from 1936. During the war McCallum lead the National Symphony Orchestra, and after it Beecham approached him to lead his new RPO. He also recorded, however, in the early years of his career - a disc of Scottish fiddle pieces and Auld Robin Gray, recorded for Vocalion in the late 1920s and issued on their Broadcast label.

(a) Inverness gathering (b) Deil among the Tailors (c) East Neuk o’ Fife
Auld Robin Gray
David McCallum, violin
George Short, piano

Broadcast S.6 (8” 78rpm, “long-playing”)
Matrices Z309, Z310
Recorded late 1920s