Scott Hutchison

The passing of Scott Hutchison in May was felt not only within the Scottish artistic community but the world over. There were those who'd sought consolation or found joy in his music, those who'd enjoyed the cathartic experience of a Frightened Rabbit live show, and those who'd been fortunate enough to meet this kind, generous and humorous man in person.

The ten-year anniversary tour of the band's seminal album The Midnight Organ Fight back in March, was a timely reminder of Hutchison's powers. Concluding with a completely sold-out show at Glasgow's O2 Academy, it was a defiant victory lap for one of the landmark Scottish albums. The band had gone from small clubs to festival headline shows in the decade since its release, and deserved this moment in front of thousands. There were some sore throats (and hangovers) the following day.

It was a year that also brought the first Mastersystem album, Dance Music, a collaboration between Hutchison and his brother Grant, and James and Justin Lockey, and one that had promised more Neu! Reekie! output. We end the year grieving for the loss of a great man, but grateful for his gifts and his time on earth. (CA)

Janis Claxton

Ask anyone in the dance community to tell you a story about Janis Claxton, and chances are they'll have one. For to know Janis was to experience her. I have my own fond memories, from Janis inviting me to spend two hours inside an enclosure at Edinburgh Zoo during her fascinating 2011 Fringe show, Enclosure 99: Humans, to our respectful and witty exchange when she demanded to know why I hadn't given her show the five stars she felt it deserved.

That forthright manner ensured her voice was heard, in particular during her fight to get more female choreographers into company repertoires. But what really spoke volumes was her clever and beautiful choreography. Since relocating to Scotland in 2005, Janis gifted us with a wide range of works, playing around with music, location and perspective to joyous effect.

Her gorgeous 2013 piece, Chaos & Contingency was designed to be watched from above or alongside, while her final work, POP-UP Duets (fragments of love), found couples springing up in public places all over the world, introducing newcomers to dance.

Whether she was dancing, choreographing, producing or speaking, Janis imbued everything with a strength and passion, and everyone who has a story to tell about her will mourn her loss. (KA)