Scottish Culture Online

Mairearad Green & Anna Massie @ CCA

Jennifer McGlone — Sat, 18 May 2013 10:24:42 +0000

Glow Arts Presents Mairearad Green and Anna Massie

Adult: £12.00, Concession: £9.00 (Including MU members).

Venue: CCA 5

Ages: all

Call the CCA Box Office on 0141 352 4900 or http://www.cca-glasgow.com

Mairearad Green and Anna Massie are an instantly captivating duo, providing a highly energetic performance with a warm and friendly stage presence.

“Anna Massie on guitar, fiddle and banjo, Mairearad Green on accordion and smallpipes – adds up to a wide palette of permutations, most of which featured in this relaxed, highly enjoyable performance…shifting the lead/accompanist balance, swapping and sharing the melody, harmony, chords and rhythms with deceptive fluency.”
The Scotsman

Having recently launched their new album Doubling, the Glasgow based multi-instrumentalists and award-winners, Mairearad Green (accordion and bagpipes) and Anna Massie (guitar, banjo, fiddle) are the first of some fantastic acts to appear in the re-launch of Glow Arts Promotions.www.glowarts.co.uk

Having both grown up in the Scottish Highlands with similar musical backgrounds (most notably, mandolin playing Dads!) Mairearad and Anna share an innate understanding of Scottish culture and music. They have an intuitive approach to each other’s musical ideas and interpretations, and an “almost telepathic communication on stage” (Hi-Arts), honed through 10 years playing alongside one another.

As well as their acclaimed endeavours as a duo –producing five star reviews and a fan base featuring KT Tunstall –Mairearad and Anna can also be seen performing individually with a number of well-known artists; The Poozies, Blazin’ Fiddles, Karen Matheson, Bella Hardy, and Box Club, and together they join Scotland’s one and only Celtic Big Band, The Unusual Suspects.

“…the camaraderie and sheer fun of musical collaboration is plainly evident and infectious.”
Songlines

“You guys were killing it…amazing playing!”
KT Tunstall

Transitions 20/40

Simon Thoumire — Wed, 15 May 2013 21:48:13 +0000

A fantastic opportunity has come up for young people to attend the RCS Junior Conservatoire.

Transitions 20/40 is designed to seek out and develop potential performing arts talent from key Scottish postcode areas. During June 2013 we will begin auditioning in various Scottish venues to find and support performing arts talent for the future of the nation. Transitions 20/40 offers tuition fee and travel support to take part in Royal Conservatoire workshops, classes and short courses in preparation for audition or interview for further vocational training at a higher education level.

Scottish Music Juniors get a 45 minute principle study lesson, 2 hours of groupwork and 1 hour of musicianship. There are also options to sing with the choir or play with the orchestra. Throughout the year there are workshops from guest tutors and performance opportunities.

Full info on the RCS website http://www.rcs.ac.uk/jr/transitions2040/
Follow the instructions on the FAQ page to check a postcode.http://www.rcs.ac.uk/jr/transitions2040/FAQ.html

Juniors is really amazing for young musicians but the fees can be a major stumbling block. Please can you spread the word to as many people as possible and lets see if we can fill some of those free places with trad players. I’ve attached a pdf with a brief outline of some of the things Scottish Music Juniors do. Any questions just get in touch.

Exciting News! Scotland Sings launch in the next couple of weeks

Simon Thoumire — Wed, 15 May 2013 12:11:34 +0000

We’ve just got the plans through for our Scotland Sings summer launch and they look really good! I’m not going to tell you much more apart from there’s famous people involved! We’ll be back in touch soon. If you want … Continue reading →

Experiments in Culture CD

admin — Wed, 15 May 2013 10:41:54 +0000

This is a CD I put together in 2005. It’s a free impro CD and is made up of recordings of the world around me and musicians improvising. The idea is that the recordings are life and the musicians are the people living life.

It all happened around the time of Radiohead releasing Kid A - an album I loved and admired for its inventiveness and the bands willingness to take chances. I had also just met saxophonist Paul Dunmall through Hands Up for Trad’s Distil course and he is a brilliant improviser and Paul encouraged me to do more improvising.

It was all recorded on my laptop and I travelled round the country getting my friends to improvise over the backing track. I would have loved to have everyone in the one room at the same time listening and improvising together but it wasn’t to be.

For the backing tracks I sat on buses and trains, went to the local park at midnight and recorded sounds and listened back to see if anything different occurred I also experimented by using my minidisk in plastic bags, cardboard boxes etc to stop the wind taking over the mic.

It was great fun to make. It was at a stage of my life when I was listening intently to different sounds for small changes and trying to replicate them on my concertina. I struggle to see how I could make such a CD nowadays. It took ages to listen and zone out from everyone else in the house. In fact I find it difficult to consider any kind of composition at the moment with work and home tasks.

I’m sure there will be a sequel one day! Have a listen below

The Scottish Fiddle Orchestra plays Edinburgh

David Lunt — Tue, 14 May 2013 16:45:19 +0000

Scotland’s top fiddle orchestra, with 100 performers, including pipers, dancers and singers, brings its lively and entertaining show to Edinburgh. The programme includes Scottish jigs, reels and heart-rending slow airs, plus Highland Cathedral and Sunset Song for orchestra and pipe band. The orchestra recently returned from a tour of China, where audiences danced in the aisles! This will be a memorable evening for visitors to Edinburgh.

Paths to Songs

Simon Thoumire — Mon, 13 May 2013 20:21:40 +0000

We are really excited to announce our new Scotland Sings initiative Paths to Songs. Its not a new idea as the tradition has been doing this for hundreds of years however we want to encourage young singers to learn from older tradition … Continue reading →

Scotland Sings Glow Meets

Simon Thoumire — Sat, 11 May 2013 08:39:01 +0000

Scotland Sings have now hosted 4 Glow Meets for Scottish Schools. It’s been great fun and there has been lots of opportunities for kids to sing some great songs with the professionals musicians. If you have missed any of these … Continue reading →

BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician Award 2014 Semi-finals

Simon Thoumire — Wed, 08 May 2013 11:39:11 +0000

Semi-Finals weekend. (Fri 4th-Sun 6th october 2013). A fun residential weekend at Wiston Lodge, Wiston, South Lanarkshire including workshops and advice on all aspects of working in the traditional music business. Each semi-finalist will perform a 10 minute slot at an evening concert in Coulter Hall, Coulter, South Lanarkshire (accompanists will be provided where required) on Saturday October 5th (start time 7.30pm), which will be judged by a panel drawn from professional traditional musicians, festival organisers etc. The six finalists selected will be notified by letter during the week beginning Monday 7th October 2013.

Exhibit A by Simon Thoumire and Fergus MacKenzie

admin — Wed, 08 May 2013 08:44:51 +0000

Fergus and I got together in 1995 (I think) to consider making an electronic dance CD. This was all the rage in Edinburgh at the time with Martyn Bennett just about to release his debut CD and everyone was trying the ‘electronica thing’. We got in touch with Iona Records to see if they would be interested in releasing such a CD and they in turn put us in touch with producer Clark Sorley. The CD came out in 1996.

It was an interesting process which I enjoyed. We got a few friends in to help out – Eilidh Shaw, Kevin Mackenzie, Julia Legge and we produced a CD! Much of the recording was at Palladium Studios just outside Loanhead. I think we might have even beat Martyn Bennett’s debut CD to the pass being the first CD of the genre (of the current time) to be released. I remember being proud one day walking for the bus and a car drove past me blasting out the CD. That doesn’t happen much being a concertina player…

When I listen back to the CD (and I think Fergus would agree) it’s rather mundane. I think it could have been more exciting but we were experimenting with colours and sounds – I even played the didgeridoo on it! I’m sure Martyn considered us an influence at the time (not). I made this in my mid twenties and I think I was looking for a bit of a new musical direction. Maybe I’m wrong but it wasn’t till my Big Day In CD with Dave Milligan in 2001 that i found my direction again.

Have a listen to Exhibit A on Spotify. Player below.

Business Limelight Award 7 months on.

Simon Thoumire — Tue, 07 May 2013 10:46:34 +0000

We’re now 7 months on since Hands Up for Trad launched our Business Limelight Award. It’s difficult times in the retail industry and I think we’ve highlighted a few success stories. The awardees are listed below.

Everybody needs to support the industry though. As downloads increase and online shops prevail we need to work out how we can support our niche businesses. The Scots Trad Music Awards and the Scottish Album of the Year initiatives are doing a good job trying to promote to the wider public but I think we are still a long way from seeing a clear direction for retail. At the moment big companies like Amazon, Spotify and iTunes are ruling the roost and it’s very difficult to compete with them.

I ask myself regularly – what is the way forward? How do we get people to buy our product in adequate numbers to make a business? Scottish music is really exciting and our music is fabulous. The product is brilliant! Is the time of the large record company over? Some may say that it has been for years especially in the minority niche business.

What we do need is the new generation to come up with new ideas. We need to encourage our young people to take a chance and keep the industry turning over with new ideas. Of course it could be argued that this is happening already and it’s all the old fogeys that keep the record companies going…

Business Limelight Winners
May 2013: Coda Music
April 2013: Edinburgh Folk Club
March 2013: Celtic Connections Festival
February 2013: Sound Sense PA Hire & Recording Services
December 2012: Temple Records
November 2012: Birnam CD
October 2012: Greentrax Recordings

Written by Simon Thoumire

test

Simon Thoumire — Mon, 06 May 2013 20:31:39 +0000

Soundsational New Album!!

Simon Thoumire — Mon, 06 May 2013 12:54:54 +0000

Soundsational Community Music was established in 2010 with the belief that music should be accessible to all walks of life and in particular those who, for various reasons would not normally have access or be encouraged to participate in music … Continue reading →

Scots Language opportunity for Schools

Simon Thoumire — Mon, 06 May 2013 10:09:36 +0000

The Scottish Government efter years o daein hee-haw for Scots in the schuils has at lang last got its fingir oot and invested some bawbees.

Education Scotland is lookin for seeven (7) Scots language coordinators tae develop the Scots skills o oor weans, bairns and dominies. See TESS for mair details -http://www.tes.co.uk/job/scots-language-co-ordinat or-secondment-140359/

And the official version…

Dear All,

After a very long wait, the Scottish Government has finally done something substantial for the Scots language in schools. Seven (7) Scots language coordinator posts have been advertised by Education Scotland – full details in the above link.

If you or a colleague might be interested in applying, the closing date is next Friday (May 10th 2013). Please forward this to anyone you think might be suitable or interested in a secondment as a Scots language coordinator.

The posts will be spread geographically to cover the different dialects of Scots. In order to make sure the Scots dialect of your area is covered, it might be worthwhile making a request for one of the coordinators to work in your local authority directly to Janet Dunsmuir at the Scottish Government – Janet.Dunsmuir@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

Some guid news for Scots for a chynge.

http://www.tes.co.uk/job/scots-language-co-ordinat or-secondment-140359/

Scottish Music Evening

Aberdeen Strathspey & Reel Society — Sat, 04 May 2013 07:27:10 +0000

The fiddle and accordion players of Aberdeen Strathspey & Reel Society’s award winning senior orchestra, along with the junior Orchestra return for their annual Scottish Music Evening.

Featuring a varied blend of traditional music from soulful slow airs to rattlin’ reels – a great evening of entertainment and toe tapping is assured.

Compere for the evening is Ron Gardner.

A 10% booking fee applies to ticket prices.

The Voice of Freedom

Tom BInns — Fri, 03 May 2013 14:37:32 +0000

Give Me Peace

admin — Fri, 03 May 2013 08:14:48 +0000

Here’s a wee ditty that I put together a few years back called Give Me Peace. It’s part of my Self Portrait YouTube album. At the time I was juggling work with toddlers. In the video I tried to capture the sense of fun of it all. It also features my love of drum n bass.

Kathryn Nicoll and Tom Oakes play the Flowers of Edinburgh 2013

Simon Thoumire — Thu, 02 May 2013 20:06:09 +0000

Fin Moore, Gary West and Hamish Moore

Simon Thoumire — Thu, 02 May 2013 17:40:05 +0000

Gary West, Fin and Hamish Moore perfom a smallpipes set at Flowers of Edinburgh 2013

Simon Thoumire — Thu, 02 May 2013 17:39:04 +0000

This one of my favourite acts at last Saturday’s Flowers of Edinburgh concert.

Knockengorroch World Ceilidh

Simon Thoumire — Wed, 01 May 2013 22:42:07 +0000

Family friendly world/roots/traditional music festival in a stunning
upland location in the Galloway Hills, under the brightest stars in
the UK (certified). The Knockengorrch World Ceilidh brings together
ancient roots music with the latest cutting edge sounds set in a
beautiful natural amphitheatre. It’s the biggest bite-able sized
festival in any mountain valley in Alba. Come and be huge with us!

Our 16th year includes a stunning musical line-up,cabaret, spoken
word, comedy, workshops, kids area, sessions, sauna, dance and more.

TradFest Edinburgh · Dùn Èideann

Scottish Storytelling Centre — Wed, 01 May 2013 09:59:59 +0000

TradFest Edinburgh · Dùn Èideann embraces all the folk arts with a contemporary edge, passion and flair. For 12 days the city will be a hive of music, song, storytelling, dance, crafts, folk drama, and environmental celebrations for Mayday/Beltane.

There is something here for residents and visitors, artists and audiences, professionals and community activists – and all of them together.

TradFest digs deep into the city’s history with Beltane and the Mayday plays, but it also rides the radical edge with contemporary songs of struggle and protest. From earliest times the people of Edinburgh marked the start of summer with hilltop fires and silent dawns. Harvesting fresh boughs they then danced and performed street plays about mythical heroes such as Robin of the greenwood.

TradFest re-animates ancient traditions and equally, participating artists are catalysts for creative change. Harnessing new ideas to old sources, the programme has been shaped by partner artists and co-curators including Alasdair Roberts, Steve Byrne, Sandy Brechin, Fred Freeman, Wendy Welch, Karine Polwart, Dave Francis, Simon Thoumire, Hamish Moore, Dannsa, Cruinn, TMSA Edinburgh & Lothians Branch, Andy Cannon, David Campbell and Edinburgh Folk Club.

Here are some events embracing this theme:
Hope’s Beautiful Daughters
Songs of Peace and Protest
The Mummers Ball
The Mummers Workshop
The Armagh Rhymers

Many venues have been involved in the programme, with events taking place in Teviot Row House, The Pleasance, Queens Hall, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Dance Base, Greyfriars Kirk and many other local sites.

Katarina Juvančič and Dejan Lapanja who perform in Hope's Beautiful Daughters

TradFest is delighted to contribute to the Year of Natural Scotland, with explorations into Arthur’s Seat – the ‘Mountain-within-a-city’ – as well as family friendly activities, such as Fun Fiddles Prom on the Prom in Portobello.

Gordon Gunn teaching at Tinto Summer School

admin — Wed, 01 May 2013 09:33:16 +0000

Teaching at Tinto 16 is Wick fiddler Gordon Gunn. Gordon’s an amazing fiddler with a different style to most other Scottish fiddlers I think. He has a very fluid style combined with fantastic technique. When his debut recording from the Gordon Gunn Band – “Shoreside” (Greentrax Recordings CDTRAX 204 (2000)). I remember Ian Green of Greentrax telling everyone how Gordon was his favourite fiddler. When I wrote my Scottish Fiddle Concerto in 2007 Gordon was my first thought to take the lead. He was great on the piece as well amazing everyone in the band with his solos!

Gordon is a well known as a fiddler – solo and with Session A9 and tours regularly throughout the world so it’s a real opportunity to have him teach at Tinto Summer School. You can book now onto the course July 15th – 20th, Wiston Lodge, South Lanarkshire.

Simon Thoumire

Wonder Working with Alasdair Roberts

Simon Thoumire — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 21:27:17 +0000

Critically acclaimed Scottish folk singer, guitarist and songwriter Alasdair Roberts, described as ‘one of Britain’s most singular and original talents’ (Colin Irwin, fRoots), returns Edinburgh for a full-band performance following the release of his most recent album A Wonder Working Stone (Drag City, available on CD and double LP).

The term ‘folk singer’ doesn’t quite cover the breadth of Alasdair’s work over the years. As the core member/songwriter of Glasgow-based avant-folk ensemble Appendix Out, he released three albums of original material between 1997 and 2000, before striking out under his own name in 2001. Since then he has gone on to release three albums of interpretations of traditional songs and ballads (The Crook of My Arm, [2001], No Earthly Man [2005] and Too Long In This Condition [2010], as well as a collaboration with Scotitsh Gaelic singer Mairi Morrison (Urstan, [2011]) and several records of self-written songs (Farewell Sorrow, [2003], The Amber Gatherers, [2005] and Spoils [2009]).

The most recent record by Alasdair Roberts & Friends, A Wonder Working Stone, features ten complex songs performed by a wide array of gifted fellow musicians on drums, electric guitar, upright bass, fiddle, accordion, trumpet, trombone, harmonium, flute, Scottish smallpipes and backing vocals. As is often the case with Alasdair’s songs, the tracks from A Wonder Working Stone draw heavily on the traditional song culture of Scotland (and, more widely, the British Isles), which is the basis of his musical research. However, that’s only one of the many influences to be felt in the work, which also has nods to rock, baroque, rap and New Orleans marching band musics; Roberts’s extraordinary lyricism takes its place in the lineage of a Scottish literary tradition encompassing modernist poets such as Ian Crichton Smith, Sorley MacLean and Hugh MacDiarmid, back through Robert Burns and Robert Tannahill to the mediaeval ‘makars’ and Gaelic bards of Dark Age Dalriada.

At the core of A Wonder Working Stone are Alasdair Roberts’ distinctive tenor voice and idiosyncratic open-tuned finger style guitar, which will be on full display when he performs at Teviot Row House on Thursday 2 June at 7.30pm as part of TradFest, with Stevie Jones (El Hombre Trajeado, Arab Strap) on upright bass, Rafe Fitzpatrick (Tattie Toes) on fiddle, Ben Reynolds (Two Wings) on electric guitar, Shane Connolly (Tattie Toes, Sokobauno Puppet Theatre) on drums, Olivia Chaney on backing vocals and harmonium, Alison McGillivray (Concerto Caledonia) on viola da gamba, Ross McCrae and Richard Merchant (Horns of Plenty, Second Hand Marching Band) on trombone and trumpet.

Praise for A Wonder Working Stone by Alasdair Roberts & Friends:

“Few, if any, artists are pushing the boundaries of traditional music further.” Uncut 9/10

“To describe Alasdair Roberts as a singer-songwriter is akin to saying Stephen Hawking is quite interested in physics.” Mojo 4/5

“A master of scordatura techniques on the guitar… an exceptional lyricist… the sound of new myths and new music being hewn from folk’s stone.” The Wire

To Book:

Scottish Storytelling Centre 0131 556 9579 or http://trad.tickets.red61.com/
EUSA 0131 650 9523 or http://www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/eusalive/

Lindsay Corr
Marketing and Communications Manager
Scottish Storytelling Centre
43-45 High Street, EH1 1SR
0131 652 3272 | www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk

Flowers of Edinburgh Concert 2013

Simon Thoumire — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 12:08:38 +0000

We had a great night on Saturday in Teviot House Debating Hall as musicians came out to raise money for charity and celebrate the contribution Edinburgh has made to the folk scene. It was a sell out which was really exciting and all the musicians performed brilliantly. The lineup for the night was

Karine Polwart Trio (with Rachel Newton and Inga Thomsen)
Corrina Hewat (harp) and Dave Milligan
Mairi Campbell and Ellen Francis
Clare McLaughlin, Marianne Campbell and John Morran (of Deaf Shepherd)
Sarah Hoy (fiddle), Fin Moore and Will Lamb
Hamish and Fin Moore with Gary West (pipes)
Bella Hardy
Simon Thoumire and Dave Milligan
Rachel Newton (harp and Gaelic song)
Brian and Siobhan Miller (Scots song)
Kathryn Nicol and Tom Oakes (fiddle and guitar)
Mark Neal and Eilidh Steel (guitar and fiddle)

There were many highlights although a personal favourite was Hamish and Fin Moore with Gary West (pipes) who played an exactly timed 9 mins 40 sec set of tunes on the small pipes that celebrated the 30th Anniversary of the Lowland and Borders Pipe Society. Below are some photos of the event. Hopefully we’ll have a Flowers of Edinburgh 2014!

SAY LONGLIST ANNOUNCED: WINNING ARTIST SET TO RECEIVE £20,000

Simon Thoumire — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 10:55:29 +0000

SAY LONGLIST ANNOUNCED: WINNING ARTIST SET TO RECEIVE £20,000

AWARD CEREMONY TO BE HELD AT BARROWLANDS ON ON THURSDAY, JUNE 20^th

The Scottish Music Industry Association [SMIA] is delighted to announce the longlist of twenty albums for the 2013 Scottish Album of the Year Award. The albums on the list represent

a dazzling range of genres and musical styles highlighting, once again, the extraordinary depth of talent being produced in Scotland.

Open to Scottish artists who released albums in 2012, the longlist is the product of a rigorous and thorough nomination process, with submissions received by 100 specially invited nominators

from the Scottish and UK music industries as well as elsewhere in the arts and media. See Format & Eligibility Guidelines for more details.

A four-week promotion of the longlist will follow, allowing the public to stream every one of the twenty longlisted titles. The promotion concludes with a 24 hour public vote on Monday 27^th May

when the public can choose their favourite from the list. The album with the most public votes will secure an automatic place on The SAY Award Shortlist of ten, with the other nine titles

being chosen by an independent panel of judges - see notes for editors for full list of judges.

The SAY Award Longlist is: (in alphabetical order)

Admiral Fallow Tree Bursts In Snow

Auntie Flo Future Rhythm Machine

Calvin Harris 18 Months

Dam Mantle Brothers Fowl

Django Django Django Django

Duncan Chisholm Affric

Emeli Sandé Our Version of Events

Errors Have Some Faith In Magic

Human Don’t Be Angry Human Don’t Be Angry

Karine Polwart Traces

Konrad Wiszniewski & Euan Stevenson New Focus

Lau Race The Loser

Meursault Something For The Weakened

Miaoux Miaoux Light of the North

Paul Buchanan Mid Air

PAWS Cokefloat

RM Hubbert Thirteen Lost & Found

Stanley Odd Reject

The Twilight Sad No One Can Ever Know

The Unwinding Hours Afterlives

Artists’ Quotes

“We’re delighted to have made the long list for this year’s SAY award with Tree Bursts In Snow. It is particularly pleasing given that the votes for this stage of the award have been

collected from a great number of people within the arts in Scotland and further afield. There were some tremendous Scottish records out last year and we are thankful to be given the nod alongside them.” Admiral Fallow

“I attended the awards last year and thought they were a big success. Very honoured to be part of the nominations and great to see this level of support for Scottish music.” Auntie Flo

“It’s a nice surprise to be recognised as part of Scotland’s dynamic and spirited musical community in this way. It’s great that so many independent artists are being supported in a longlist

that could only begin to draw attention to the mass of ideas being bounced around within these far-reaching musical zones. Thanks for your support.” Dam Mantle

“It is the ultimate aim while creating an album, that the end result be embraced and enjoyed positively. For Affric to be included in the long list for an award which strives to focus attention

on the Scottish music scene and in particular, on the fact that it has become one of the most vibrant, influential and well respected in the world – is fantastic. This award gives huge opportunity

to musicians from all genres and in particular to independent labels such as my own.” Duncan Chisholm

“It feels great to be nominated for this award. it’s really unexpected but a great surprise. We’re up against some healthy competition but that’s the positive thing about it because it means that the music scene in Scotland is thriving. From hip hop to folk to rock to dance music scotland is producing great talent and it’s an honour to be part of an award showcasing that talent.“ Django Django

“We’re really pleased to be part of the longlist. There were some great records released last year and the SAY award gives us another opportunity to celebrate all of them.” Errors

“I am frankly shocked at being nominated. There’s a lot of good new, innovative and enjoyable music coming out of Scotland right now so I’m fortunate to have been accidentally lumped in

with all of that. I’m especially pleased the nomination’s for Human Don’t Be Angry, as it’s an album that’s very dear to me and which I feel is the highlight of my musical career so far.

Besides, when I don’t win it’ll be my alter-ego that’s lost, not me.” Malcolm Middleton

“I followed last years SAY Awards and bought two new albums from two great bands I’d never heard of before – Conquering Animal Sounds and Happy Particles. For musicians like me, I think

any opportunity that might get folk curious about music that’s new to their own ears deserves a wee cheer. The trick is to remember that we don’t make music to compete with each other, or for

awards or accolades. But it’s brilliant to get a wee punt.” Karine Polwart

“Delighted to be nominated for the SAY Award. It’s a real boost to learn that our music is being recognised, valued and appreciated in our own country.” Konrad Wiszniewski & Euan Stevenson

“Lau are absolutely delighted to be nominated for the 2013 SAY award. Last year’s list contained many of our favourite albums of 2012. It’s an exciting time for Scottish music

and we’re chuffed to be part of it.” Lau

“We’re really pleased to be counted among such great artists at this years SAY award, it means a lot.” - Neil Pennycook of Meursault

“I’m delighted and amazed to be nominated – there’s so much excellent music in Scotland, it feels very special. Making an album is a long road and this is a pretty great destination” Miaoux Miaoux

“We feel extremely flattered to be included on the list for this years SAY award. The record was written and recorded during some tough times and its aftermath – so far it has guided into

happier times. If one handful of folks liked the record I would’ve been happy all the same as one hundred people liking it. So to be nominated for this we are very grateful. Thanks” PAWS

“I’m a little speechless to be honest. It’s a real honour to have Thirteen Lost & Found included in the long list for the Scottish Album of the Year award, especially given how 2012 brought

so many brilliant albums out of Scotland.” RM Hubbert

“We are delighted to be included in the longlist for this year’s Scottish Album of the Year Award. The format of the awards is excellent in that it represents the quality and diversity of music

being made across the country and provides a platform for this to be heard and celebrated. Every album from last year’s Awards was of such a high calibre and to have Reject considered

among the 20 best records to come out of Scotland in 2012 is quite frankly amazing.” Stanley Odd

“In my opinion, Scotland has consistently produced some of the best music in the world and last year was no exception. As a band we are extremely proud of our third record “No One Can Ever Know”.

Where we are from is very important to us and the music we make, so this record making the long list for the SAY award is something that means a lot to us. To be acknowledged amongst a group

of records made by artists who we look up to and admire makes it extra special.” James Alexander Graham, The Twilight Sad

“It’s lovely to hear we have been included in the longlist and a privilege to be included alongside some of our favourite Scottish bands and musicians. I think it will be an extremely tough job

trying to decide a winner due to how many fantastic albums are up for selection. Good luck with that!” Craig B, Unwinding Hours

The SAY Award has been made possible through the support of Creative Scotland and, this year, is delighted to welcome onboard new creative partners Dewar’s, music licensing organisation PPL

and Glasgow’s east end urban regeneration organisation, Clyde Gateway. The award will also be strengthened by the joint media partnership of the Sunday Herald and The Scotsman. (see statements below).

Andrew Eaton-Lewis, Group Arts Editor, the Scotsman and Scotland on Sunday said: ”The Scotsman is delighted to support the SAY Award. Scotland’s independent music scene is thriving, as reflected both in the coverage in the Scotsman and Scotland on Sunday – where the likes of FOUND, Meursault, Conquering Animal Sound, King Creosote and Chvrches regularly share space with artists from beyond Scotland – and our Radar new music blog and monthly Under the Radar new music column, which are dedicated entirely to supporting independent music made in Scotland. We look forward to working with SAY on raising the profile of some fantastic Scottish albums from the past year.”

Richard Walker, Editor, Sunday Herald added: ”At a time when Scottish music is experiencing a creative upsurge the Sunday Herald is delighted to be associated with the SAY award. The range and diversity of the music coming from Scotland is astonishing and the Sunday Herald and its sister paper the Herald believe its our job to encourage that creativity and to help bring the best of that music to as wide an audience as possible. The long list acts as an impressive showcase for that music and we look forward to providing coverage of the nominated performers in our print and digital platforms.”

For further information, interviews and photographs:

Print | Broadcast Media: contact Wendy Niblock | 07961 814834 | wendy@sayaward.com

Online | Social Media: contact Stacey Walton | 07855 181780 | stacey@sayaward.com

NOTES FOR EDITORS:

1. Key dates for your diary

Monday 29th April – Sunday 26th May:

Longlist Promotion via SAY Award app and website.

Monday 27th May:

24-hour public vote.

Thursday 30th May (Drinks Reception at the CCA):

The SAY Award Shortlist Announcement

The SAY Art Commission Winner Announcement

Opening of Art Commission Group Show

Thursday 20th June:

Scottish Album of the Year Award Ceremony – Barrowland Ballroom.

The SAY award supports the Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy in Scotland charity and will be collecting donations on their behalf at the award ceremony.

2. Judges - full biographies

John Williamson (Chair, Academic); Douglas Anderson (Author/Broadcaster/Writer); Christopher Brookmyre (Author); Stewart Cruickshank (Radio Producer);

Tom Doyle (Author/Journalist); Douglas Gordon (Visual Artist); Kate Molleson (Journalist); Joe Muggs (Journalist/A&R); Jude Rogers (Journalist); Tjinder Singh (Cornershop; Ample Play Records);

Rebecca Vasmant (DJ/Producer); Sue Wilson (Journalist).

3. Partner Organisations:

Scottish Music Industry Association www.smia.org.uk

Creative Scotland www.creativescotland.com

Dewar’s Scotch Whisky www.dewars.com

PPL www.ppluk.com

Clyde Gateway www.clydegateway.com

Sunday Herald www.heraldscotland.com

The Scotsman www.scotsman.com

Ends…/

Trad&Sons Festival

admin — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 10:27:25 +0000

I’m looking forward to travelling to Paris on the 1st June with Ian Carr to play Trad&Sons festival. Will be a blast and good to see some old musical friends

Trad&Sons Festival

admin — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 10:27:25 +0000

I’m looking forward to travelling to Paris on the 1st June with Ian Carr to play Trad&Sons festival. Will be a blast and good to see some old musical friends

Singing and Mental Health

Simon Thoumire — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 09:47:56 +0000

I was recently forwarded this very interesting document from the Sidney De Haan Research Centre for Arts and Health. It’s by Ian Morrison and Stephen Clift and is called Singing and Mental Health. From the introduction. This guide provides an overview of the evidence … Continue reading →

Gareth Malone’s forming a new Youth Choir

Simon Thoumire — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 09:41:12 +0000

Great opportunity to join a new Gareth Malone Youth Choir! Closing date 26th April… Text from website Join Gareth Malone as he plans to create a new British youth choir “as you’ve never heard before”. The music-maestro is launching a … Continue reading →

Discovering the Arthurs

Scottish Storytelling Centre — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 10:23:34 +0000

Meeting at the Holyrood Palace car park, author Kellan MacInnes (Caleb’s List) and an Historic Scotland Park Ranger will guide you to the summit of Arthur’s Seat. With stunning views across the City, discover the history of an eccentric antiquarian and his almost-forgotten climbing challenge: bagging ‘The Arthurs’.

Participants are advised to wear warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear with grips. Requires physical fitness.

Luath Press www.luath.co.uk

The Cocktail Ceilidh

Scottish Storytelling Centre — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 09:12:01 +0000

For one night only, Reel-Time Events is hosting an unforgettable evening for all to enjoy. Joined by some very special guests, the Reel-Time Band will lead the dancing with their unique, rocking ceilidh music. With a fully-stocked cocktail and whisky bar, this promises to be the ceilidh of the year!

www.reel-time.co.uk

Young Fiddlers wanted for acting opportunity

Simon Thoumire — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 20:42:55 +0000

We are a casting company in Edinburgh currently searching for a young male and female for roles in a new Feature Film, set in Scotland, due to be filmed this summer. Please see our breakdown for the film below.

If you could please post this on your site or know of any groups or players that may find this of interest we’d be grateful if you could pass on this information. This is a great opportunity for young Scottish musicians and hope you can help. Please also find attached a poster should you wish to use it.

Kenneth (Male)
15 years old. Well spoken (middle class) native Scottish accent. Kenneth sometimes sounds 20 years older than his years – wise, very well spoken, very intelligent and somewhat removed/disconnected from his surroundings. He is an extremely competent classical violinist. For all his talent he is still an awkward teenager finding his way through a difficult age.
Suggestions will preferably play violin but is not compulsory.

Playing age: 15 – 17 (real age of 16+ so is not subject to child licensing)
Shooting Dates: June – July 2013
Location: Scotland

Please send all suggestions to this address with an informal headshot, name, age, dob, location and contact details, ASAP.

There is also another role for a female – a very attractive female violinist, 16 years old. Non Speaking part.

Roisin
Casting Assistant

Orla O’Connor Casting (cdg)
The Out of the Blue Drill Hall
36 Dalmeny Street
Edinburgh
EH6 8RG
0131 553 0559
www.orlaoconnorcasting.co.uk

Dynamic partnerships: why the duo format is not just for musicians

Simon Thoumire — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 20:34:24 +0000

The folk scene, according to the Scotsman is being taken over by the duo format. It’s “a halfway house between solo acts and full-sized bands, offering added dynamic value over the former while remaining significantly cheaper than the latter,” (Sue Wilson, Scotsman, 29th March 2013). However, the format can provide energising partnerships unlike other performances, engaging audiences not only in the material but the chemistry between two people that’s very different from solo performers or larger groups. Duos aren’t just limited to musicians, either. TradFest this Spring features a number of exciting duo performances, both in music and storytelling.

The singer-songwriter is a natural arena for duos, and none more exciting than visiting Slovenian act Katarina Juvančič and Dejan Lapanja, who will be featured in Hope’s Beautiful Daughters, a specially commissioned show celebrating contemporary songs of struggle and peace, curated by Karine Polwart and Arthur Johnstone. Stalwart instrumental duo Alasdair Fraser and Natalie Haas will also be appearing at Edinburgh Folk Club, and exciting up-and-comers Marit and Rona will seek to take the popular Scot/Scandi fusion to new levels. Rona Wilkie comments: “As a duo we try and create a synthesis of our heritage and interests, exploring the connection of Gaelic Scotland and Scandinavia for a sound which is neither Highland nor Scandinavian. As great friends we have a lot of fun melding the two traditions and exploring songs and tunes, which gives us our energy and sense of fun on stage.”

While musical collaborations range from duos to full bands to orchestras, storytelling is an area traditionally associated with solo performers. Young storytellers Fiona Herbert and Calum Lykan will bring the chemistry of the duo format to a collaborative storytelling performance The Selkie Wife, as Fiona explains:

“The Selkie Wife tale suits the duo format very well because it allows the storytellers to fully inhabit the characters involved, creating a more theatrical presentation. In this way the contrast between the two characters’ viewpoints is starkly revealed, particularly in the first of the three tales Calum and I will be performing, where the deluded husband tells his version of events and the bitter wife tells hers. The tandem telling being told in character allows the audience to see how the feelings between them change first hand, as well as retaining the magic of the spontaneous and personal feel storytelling performance achieves.”

Storytelling duos also emphasise the fact that stories are about collaboration and connection. They transcend generations, engage through emotions, and connect us to others. Other storytelling collaborations during TradFest include long-running children’s storytelling duo Fergus McNicol and Ronnie Fairweather (Macastory – in Auld Reekie and Edinburgh in Story) as well as master tellers David Campbell and Janis Mackay who stir a fantastic storytelling brew and include music in the mix in Riders on the Storm, as David explains:

“The alchemy of combining musician and storyteller stirs a fantastic, charismatic brew. Caledonia’s creation myth gathers primal and powerful drama in this marriage of world-renowned piper/singer/musician, Allan McDonald with myself and Janis, creating electric chemistry.”

Tradfest’s pilot pushes the boundaries of the ‘folk’ festival format, encompassing traditional arts across the spectrum and celebrating artists both international and local, professional and community.

For more info on TradFest visit www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk/tradfest/tradfest.asp

The Mummers Workshop

Edinburgh Youth Gaitherin — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 15:21:28 +0000

Learn about the rich traditions of folk drama and dance, the costumes and the songs. Share first hand in the contemporary renaissance of ancient traditions, and try things out at your own pace. Armagh Rhymers with Scottish Mummer Troupes.

The Scotland Sings logo just got sunnier!

Simon Thoumire — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 13:00:41 +0000

As summer has nearly arrived we thought we would update our logo to make you smile! As you can see it’s a sunflower! You’ll notice at the top of the page that there is not a cloud in the sky … Continue reading →

Woop – It’s a new Flowers of Edinburgh concert!

admin — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 10:00:43 +0000

Back in 1997 David Francis and the Edinburgh Folk Festival scheduled the very first Flowers of Edinburgh Concert. We all gathered at Teviot House (the home of the Folk Festival) and had a photo taken of all the performers – well the ones that turned up… Then everyone got together to perform in different groups from their normal groups. I performed with Jim Sutherland (a jig and a reel a I think!) – one of my musical heroes as I grew up listening to folk music. There were lots of fab performances. Two of my favourites were

Speccy – Iain MacLeod (Shooglenifty), Simon Bradley and Jim Sutherland – they played an amazing set of tunes
Angus Grant Jnr, Eilidh Shaw, Simon Bradley and Russell Hunter playing an amazing set of fiddle tunes

The concert ran again in 1998 which I think I was involved in but I can’t remember (must have been a good party…)

Anyway Simon Bradley said to us last year that it was 15 years since the first Flowers of Edinburgh and we should do another concert. I spoke to Dave about it and he thought it was a great idea. We started asking around who would like to perform and we ended up with this great lineup (not the running order).

Karine Polwart
Corrina Hewat (harp)
Mairi Campbell
Clare McLaughlin, Marianne Campbell and John Morran (of Deaf Shepherd)
Sarah Hoy (fiddle)
Hamish and Fin Moore with Gary West (pipes)
Bella Hardy
Simon Thoumire and Dave Milligan
Rachel Newton (harp and Gaelic song)
Brian and Siobhan Miller (Scots song)
Kathryn Nicol and Tom Oakes (fiddle and guitar)
Mark Neal and Eilidh Steel (guitar and fiddle).

We also decided after all the terrible losses of last year (and plenty of other years) we decided to give the profits to MacMillan Cancer Relief. So it would be great to see you all there. It’s next Saturday the 27th April, Teviot House, Edinburgh at 7.30pm. I’m looking forward to it!

http://www.scottishcultureonline.com/flowers-of-edinburgh-to-bloom-again/

Have a listen to the original CD

Creative workshops on Lismore island

Ros Gasson — Sat, 20 Apr 2013 19:25:11 +0000

A creative break on the stunning island of Lismore, filled with song, photography, poetry and textiles.

The mix of learning, music, a friendly welcome into the local community, and the beautiful surroundings of Lismore, is an enticing combination for a refreshing and creative break.

Mairi Campbell, inspirational singer, fiddle and viola player, will be running song workshops based in the new studio at Carnie Cottage. Ros Gasson will be leading photography workshops. Sarah Campbell of Mogwaii design, who lives on Lismore island, will be using the local environment to inspire her textile workshops. There will also be a chance to join Jayne Wilding, poet, writer and teacher, in her writing workshops based in the local heritage centre.

Places for the weekend can be booked online on the Lismore Music Retreat website

Sing, make, write or do photography … with the added bonus of extending your skills or trying something completely new.

You can either focus fully on one activity over the four days, or split your day into a first choice for the mornings and other options in the afternoon. You are also free to take a morning class and then explore the island or do your own thing in the afternoons.

Add your own event to Scotland Sings!

Simon Thoumire — Sat, 20 Apr 2013 09:32:27 +0000

Do you have an event you would like to be include in the Scotland Sings ‘What’s On’ guide? You can submit your event here and we will upload it to our guide. Let us help you promote what you are doing. Everyone … Continue reading →

Shetland – An Outsider’s View. Part 2

Simon Thoumire — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 14:34:09 +0000

As I left my accommodation in Shetland for the last time, I was sure of some things but unsure of others. Over the few days of my trip, a research tour for a new book, I’d in equal measure been amazed and saddened by some of the facts and stories I’d heard – from the story of a black slave shipwrecked in the 1900s who found freedom and love on the isles, to the sad but slow depopulation of the outlying lands. There’s no doubt that to the outsider the wind blasted coastlines appear more suited to an H.G. Wells novel. But on closer scrutiny, between dry-stone-dykes and iron age brochs, you’ll find communities that have weathered the worst and continue to fight the elements – natural or manmade.

To this tourist, the idea of a secluded life, living with nature and the elements never seemed more possible or appealing than when sat over-looking the stunning vistas of Lerwick’s Horses Nab or the northern Out Skerries. Yet the reality of it requires more than a cup of coffee and a dream. Things most would take for granted in the central belt are not always as easy to sort out. Up until only last year, the islands still suffered from patchy phone and internet services, mostly due to the weather conditions, in 2012 BT announced a £8million investment package promising to fix this. Still, on my trip I heard a radio report explaining that many broadband connections would be out for at least another week and a half before any sign of fixing.

Life on the isles isn’t cheap either. With most basic commodities having to be shipped in, prices are equal if not higher than those found in Edinburgh and Glasgow. One local I spoke to felt this was a partly avoidable situation. He blamed the Shetlanders’ reliance on the system of subsidies that came about after more and more crofters gave over their land for grazing in place of agriculture. “We used to grow what we needed. It wasn’t easy but we did it. Now we’d rather get it shipped in than go that extra mile.” This feeling wasn’t shared by all though. Broadcaster Mary Blance felt that Shetland’s heritage was never one of agriculture. “We’re a fishing nation, always have been.” She agreed that the crofts – an important part of the island’s heritage – have certainly changed and not necessarily for the better. Even on the short drive from Sumburgh Airport to Lerwick, I witnessed the number of rundown and decaying crofts spattered across the countryside. It was a saddening image.

Sadly, Shetland’s other cruxes are those shared with the rest of the country. Alcohol and drugs are rife through-out. Many would sum up the issue as one arising from boredom amongst the youth of the islands. But after speaking with a local Police constable, he explained that the problem was certainly not confined to young people. “Drunken Violence is not specific to any age category in Shetland, whether it’s Lerwick on a Friday night or one of the community halls out in the countryside, all ages can get themselves into trouble here.” He went on to say that the increasing drug problem on the islands hasn’t helped anything. “Considering the islands’ size, it’s got a drug problem equal to that of mainland Scotland.” At the current time, there seems to be no real solution to the issue.

Those looking for that dream of rural tranquillity or even the ‘Local Hero’ effect will find the reality of the situation more difficult to swallow. Harsh weather and high prices will be a continual reminder to outsiders that there is an easier way. Yet, the magic of Shetland persists. Tourism continues to rise year on year, bringing with it more jobs and more money. The ever present oil attracts grants and research funding, keeping Shetland in the public eye.

I know I’ll be back. Yes it was cold, yes it was isolated but there was warmth. Most of which came from each and every person I met. At the heart of it, Shetlanders themselves are the island’s greatest commodity. Those fantastic tracts of once-tilled land, and the ancient iron-age siege towers (brochs) would be nothing without the people who at every turn did everything they could to help this wee man out.

John Thoumire, www.wildwoodspublishing.co.uk

Flowers of Edinburgh to Bloom Again!

Simon Thoumire — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 08:01:29 +0000

Karine Polwart, Mairi Campbell and other top Edinburgh folk musicians will come together at this year’s TradFest for a gala concert in aid of Macmillan Cancer Relief at Teviot House, Edinburgh on Saturday 27 April at 7.30.

The concert is a reprise of a popular feature at the old Edinburgh Folk Festival which spotlighted the wealth of folk music talent living in and around Edinburgh. This year’s concert at Teviot House features some of the original participants as well as some who were just starting on their first lessons at the time.

Leading singer and songwriter, Karine Polwart, is squeezing the gig into her spring tour, in support of her best-selling album ‘Traces’:

“I took part in one of the original concerts, back when I was just starting out, and it was a real thrill for me to be sharing a stage with some amazing performers back then. I’m delighted to be involved again, especially for such a good cause.”

Organiser Simon Thoumire, the man behind the Scots Trad Music Awards and the BBC Scotland Young Traditional Musician competition echoes Polwart’s comments about the charity effort:

‘The folk music community in Scotland suffered some grievous losses to cancer in recent months, with the death of Michael Marra amongst others, so it seemed right to make this a fund-raiser for Macmillan.”

Thoumire, a virtuoso concertina player who will be doing a spot himself with long time collaborator, pianist Dave Milligan, added:

“The original concerts were such great fun and have stuck in people’s memory, so we thought it would be a nice idea to bring the Flowers of Edinburgh back for this new festival, TradFest, which merges tradition with contemporary edge and flair. Despite Glasgow being seen as the hot spot for traditional music these days there is still loads of talent resident here in Edinburgh and we wanted to showcase that.”

As well as Karine Polwart, the line-up features a host of award winners and nominees, including harpists Corrina Hewat and Rachel Newton, singers Bella Hardy and Mairi Campbell and some cross generational combinations with piping father and son, Hamish and Fin Moore, and singing father and daughter Brian and Siobhan Miller.

Ends

Notes to editors

Flowers of Edinburgh is at Teviot House, Edinburgh on Saturday 27 April at 7.30. Tickets available from the Scottish Storytelling Centre online, by phone and at the box office. 43-45 High St, Edinburgh; 0131 556 9579 http://trad.tickets.red61.com/

1. Full line-up: Karine Polwart; Corrina Hewat (harp); Mairi Campbell; Clare McLaughlin, Marianne Campbell and John Morran (of Deaf Shepherd); Sarah Hoy (fiddle); Hamish and Fin Moore with Gary West (pipes); Bella Hardy; Simon Thoumire and Dave Milligan; Rachel Newton (harp and Gaelic song); Brian and Siobhan Miller (Scots song); Kathryn Nicol and Tom Oakes (fiddle and guitar), Mark Neal and Eilidh Steel (guitar and fiddle).

2. TradFest Edinburgh • Dùn Èideann is inspired by previous festivals including the Edinburgh People’s Festival, the Edinburgh International Folk Festival and Ceilidh Culture, but marks a new phase of vigorous renewal for Scotland’s culture in its local, national and international relationships. TradFest is organised by the Scottish Storytelling Centre on behalf of TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) which brings together Scotland’s performance traditions under a new umbrella.

TRACS is grateful for the strategic support of the City of Edinburgh Council and of Creative Scotland, and for the active participation of its three Forums – Traditional Music, Storytelling and Traditions of Dance. The Creative Scotland Traditonal Arts Commissioning Fund has also supported the SourceSruth programming strand. Finally, TradFest is delighted to contribute through its environmental events to the Year of Natural Scotland.

3. Contact details for co-producers: Simon Thoumire 07775 854782; David Francis 07825788861

4. Venue contact details: Lindsay Corr 07853 352741 or lindsay@scottishstorytellingcentre.com

Scotland in Music by Edward Scott Pearlman

admin — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 10:00:35 +0000

Here is a great article written by Scottish fiddler Ed Pearlman on the possibilities to listen to Scottish music online including my popular Foot Stompin’ free Scottish music podcast. Read the article here (pdf)

http://www.mediafire.com/view/?rajxh1rmyuhr1xv

Buddy MacMaster In Concert

elizabethhepburn — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 20:49:14 +0000

The great Cape Breton fiddle player Buddy MacMaster playing a great set of tunes.

Unique Opportunity to Explore Canna’s Secrets

elizabethhepburn — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 20:35:27 +0000

Students of Gaelic and Gaelic Culture are set to have a rare and unique opportunity this October, to access the priceless Canna Archives, the legacy of Margaret and John Campbell, who devoted their lives to preserving, through recordings and photographs, a disappearing way of Hebridean life in the 1930’s and 40’s.

“Eòlas Chanaigh” or “ A Canna Experience” will take place on the tiny green island of Canna and will provide students with a rare chance to access the archives under the guidance of the Canna archivist, to learn the songs themselves from Mod Gold Medallist Fiona J Mackenzie and to learn Gaelic itself from well known tutor Rhoda Meek, who will teach using the revolutionary, intensive Ulpan method.

Fiona said “Learning the songs collected by Margaret Fay Shaw in “Folksongs and Folklore of South Uist” was my first ever experience of learning Gaelic Song and the collection is still my “Song Bible”. I am delighted to have this opportunity to help awareness grow of the precious legacy Margaret left to the world. More than just a collection of songs, she stands for all those people who fight to preserve and promote all minority and disappearing cultures. Our students will have unprecedented access to the contents of the archives as well as discovering what it is that makes Canna so totally different to other Hebridean islands”

Course activities will also include environmental tours of the island, private tours of Canna House and Gaelic medium activities such as BBQ’s and picnics on the beautiful Corraghan Bay.

“ Due to the generosity of The Campbell Trust, we are particularly pleased to announce the funding of two “Campbell Trust” Bursaries , to students from either Scottish or Nova Scotian Universities, celebrating the strong link between the Campbell’s and Nova Scotian communities. Students of Gaelic, Celtic Studies, Traditional Music or Archive Studies are invited to apply for a bursary towards the cost of the education element of the course. This is entirely within the spirit of how the Campbell’s wanted Canna and its priceless legacy to develop”.

Dates for the course are Saturday 5- Wednesday 9^th October 2013. More details are available from Fiona J Mackenzie , fìona@fionamackenzie.org , 07818630616 www.fionamackenzie.org/Canna.php

Horsecross Trad Sessions at the Perth Theatre

elizabethhepburn — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 17:29:42 +0000

Perth Concert Hall and Perth Theatre are launching a new monthly session in the cosy confines of Redrooms within the Perth Theatre . The sessions will be open to all musicians and anyone who wants to come along and see some great local traditional players, and some special guests, let loose in an informal jam. The sessions will take place:

Mon 22 April: Pete Clark + Ron Shaw
Mon 20 May: Patsy Reid
Mon 17 June: tbc
Mon 22 July: tbc
Mon 19 August: Singers’ Session with Doris Rougvie and Jim Malcolm
Mon 16 September: Ross Ainslie

The sessions are free, no booking required – just turn up and enjoy playing or listening.

Perth Theatre, 185 High Street, Perth PH1 5UW

Trad from Scratch

elizabethhepburn — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 17:21:27 +0000

Have you ever wanted to sit in and play on a Traditional Session but worried that you wouldn’t know the tunes? Then Trad from Scratch is for you, so dust down your guitars and string up your fiddles! This new initiative, a series of weekly sessions from Perth Concert Hall and Perth Theatre, will introduce you to some stock traditional tunes which you’ll learn by ear. Experienced players will develop harmonies and arrangements as the weeks progress.

The sessions will run Wednesdays throughout May : 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th from 7pm - 9pm at the Rehearsal Room, Perth Theatre

£18 for all five session bought in advance; £4 per session
AGE: 18+

Perth Theatre, 185 High Street, Perth PH1 5UW
http://www.horsecross.co.uk/

Remember Waltzes for Playboys by the Simon Thoumire Three

admin — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 17:16:34 +0000

This was the CD we made in 1993 as the follow up to Hootz! with Ian Carr. It was a really interesting time in Edinburgh where everyone in the Tron Pub was experimenting with different genres of music. The trio consists of Simon Thoumire, Kevin MacKenzie (guitar) and Brian Sheils (bass). We originally got together for an Edinburgh Fringe Show called Simon Thoumire and Brian Sheils’ Excellent Adventure which was named after the film – Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure (which feature Keanu Reeves!)

I remember when we shot the cover photo from this album. I went to pick up Kev at his flat and he brought out a blond wig and a sack cloth jacket and said ‘do you think this is right?’. I’m still not sure if he was joking till this day… We then headed on down to Pilton (an area in Edinburgh) for the photo shoot and as soon as we got the instruments out all the local youf decided to pay us a lot more attention and if you look at the original photo reel the photographer gets closer and closer as the youths get closer and closer. We had to make a quick exit and head to somewhere in East Lothian where this photo was shot. Goodness knows what that thing in the background is.

We have a new Hands Up for Trad sponsorship document!

Simon Thoumire — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 15:39:25 +0000

Thanks to Persephone Nicol-Bose Hands Up for Trad now have our first sponsorship document!

A partnership with Hands Up for Trad will create inspirational opportunities for your business, staff, clients, and stakeholders, whilst elevating your brand across Scotland. Your organisation’s involvement will also make a huge impact on the national music culture of Scotland. This is a highly rewarding and unique opportunity for your business to be at the forefront of maintaining and developing Scotland’s world famous traditional musical heritage.

We would love to have you on board. Why not download the Hands Up for Trad sponsorship document.

St Magnus Festival 2013

admin — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 10:13:06 +0000

Myself and David Milligan have been very lucky to be have invited to perform at the St Magnus International Festival in Orkney on Thursday 27th June. I haven’t been up to Orkney for years so it’s really exciting. I’m also going to finally see the Wrigley Sisters’ The Reel venue which I’ve heard so much about.

Orkney is an amazing place which everyone should visit. There is so much history and the placed is steeped in music. Read more here http://www.visitorkney.com/. Dave and I are on at 22.00 at The Reel, Kirkwall. Tickets, £7 at door or £36 season ticket in advance

From the programme:
A virtuoso concertina player and a jazz pianist come together to play music from their internationally acclaimed albums. Thoumire is a real magician on his instrument.

http://www.stmagnusfestival.com/programmedetail.htm#ClubWed27

Love this video of Kan playing Queen of Rangoon

admin — Sat, 30 Mar 2013 14:51:20 +0000

I recorded this set in Stereo last year in May (2012). This band really rock especially Brian Finnegan’s whistle playing. Is there anyone better?

EYG TRAD CONCERT

Stuart Gunn — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 19:22:07 +0000

Join Edinburgh Youth Gaitherin as they celebrate their 18th year with a night of tunes and songs with top traditional musicians from Scotland and beyond; including Bella Hardy, Mike Vass, Heather Downie, Tom Oakes, Rona Wilkie & Marit Fält, Conrad Molleson, and members of the EYG Big Band and Archive Project.

‘Tea and Tobar’ Concert and Music Session

elizabethhepburn — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 13:18:10 +0000

BA (Hons) Applied Music students present ‘New light on the Kist of Riches’
First performed at Celtic Connections festival 2013

Saturday 13th April 3.30pm
Function Room, Isle of Benbecula Hotel

Entry Free, complimentary tea, sandwiches and cakes served.

Gaelic song with local singers: Paul McCallum and Cathie Laing 5pm
This event will provide people with the opportunity to find out about exciting new
developments in music with Lews Castle College and UHI.
For more information contact: appliedmusic@uhi.ac.uk tel: 01851770500

BA (Hons) Applied Music Residency, Uist April 11th – 14th 2013

elizabethhepburn — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 13:09:19 +0000

University of the Highlands and islands BA (Hons) Applied Music will be gathering in Uist 11^th – 14^th April 2013 for the fourth residency of the academic year. The degree is led from Lews Castle College UHI’s campus at Benbecula by Anna-Wendy Stevenson and is a rich multi genre programme which attracts students from all over Scotland. For this residency, the first held in Uist, students will be making their way to Uist from Orkney, Shetland, Central Scotland, Moray, Aberdeen.

Tobar an Dualchais Concert

One of the highlights of the residency will include a repeat performance of the concert ‘New Light on the Kist of Riches’ which was first performed at Celtic Connections festival 2013. This concert was inspired by the rich resource of the Tobar and Dualchais online archive and work with artist in residence for the project, Julie Fowlis. The weekend will also include music and Gaelic song sessions and will be based at the Isle of Benbecula Hotel.

Plans are currently underway to utilise the excellent space and facility of Isle of Benbecula Hotel during the academic term for music students’ residential and teaching accommodation. The BA (Hons) Applied Music programme is programme lead from Benbecula, alongside HNC music and the music provision is developing further with a new CPD award: Music in Education and Community Contexts and a new MA Music and the Environment.

Further information will be available on the developments in music at Lews Castle College and UHI at the Free Open concert: ‘Tea and Tobar’ 3.30pm Saturday 13^th April 2013, Isle of Benbecula Hotel. Complementary tea, sandwiches and cakes will be provided.

Gaelic song session 5pm Creagorry Bar.

Music session 8pm Old Creagorry Bar.

For further information contact:

Anna-Wendy Stevenson, Programme Leader, BA (Hons) Applied Music, Lews Castle College Benbecula: appliedmusic@uhi.ac.uk or 01851770500

An Outsider’s Perspective – part 1.

Simon Thoumire — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 12:53:39 +0000

The ancient isles of Shetland are home to some of Scotland’s most astounding displays of living
history. From the continuing tradition of crofting – where landholders pay rent using commodities
largely in place of money – to the strong fishing heritage, the northernmost point of Scotland can be
something to behold. Still, to somebody outside of the area, sometimes known as a ‘south mouther’,
it can appear a strange and isolated living.

I recently took my first trip to Shetland with the idea of doing some book research. Previously I had
spent time in the Orkney Isles and I foolishly thought it would be a similar situation in Shetland
- a perception I realise is common to those from Scotland’s central belt. There are similarities
geographically – both island groups have a wealth of archaeological sites spanning all eras of the
country. Links with their Norse past is strong too, Viking artefacts can be found on a simple walk
along their coast lines. That is where the similarities stop.

Shetland lies just shy of one-hundred miles north of Scotland’s mainland, its climate largely dictated
by its proximity on either side to the Atlantic Ocean and North Sea. In certain areas it is possible
to throw a rock from one body of water to another, something not possible in any other part of
the country. The wind-shorn, rocky islands are home to a few of the Scotland’s oldest surviving
geological sites of interest and shelter some of the largest wildlife colonies in the Northern Hebrides.

It only takes a glance at a map of Shetland to discover a slew of unpronounceable landmarks and
locations but on closer examination, these names are the key to the island’s history and remarkable
heritage. Many, from the Norse heritage which dates back to 800AD, are still in use today. Names
with wick, firth, and voe describe bays or coves of different shapes e.g. Lerwick, the capital of
Shetland, means clay or muddy bay in old Norse. This attachment to the old language is peppered
throughout the dialect too. There are over thirty different words still used to this day to describe the
different types of rain and weather on the isles.

Another thriving part of Shetland’s heritage is its music. The islands are famous for producing some
of the most skilled fiddlers in traditional music today and are home to the renowned Shetland Folk
Festival, a four-day music filled event that traverses even the most far flung of the island group.
Some of the region’s most famous musicians include Aly Bain, the late Peerie Willie Johnson and folk
super-group, Fiddler’s Bid. While many will associate Shetland with traditional music, the islands are
proud to boast a blooming blues and rock fraternity too.

During my short time there, I had the pleasure of meeting people from many different tracts of life
on the isles; from oil workers to fishermen, musicians to folklorists. All had their own take on what
it meant to be a Shetlander. This particular topic of ‘identity’ produced many eye-rolling moments
in our conversations. Apparently it is a common question asked of them and one that cannot be
answered in a simple blog. A kindly scholar from Edinburgh’s Museum of Scotland – who would
rather not be named – suggested that ‘Shetlanders can suffer from a crisis of identity. The isles have
been bandied about between one country and another that long, that it’s hard to fix on one point of
origin.’

One thing is for sure though, to be a Shetlander is to be proud. The islands may seem far off
and isolated to us in the south but to those I spoke to, Shetland is proud to be independent and
resourceful. On first introductions, some may find a gruff exterior, full of short replies and strange
looks, but it only takes a minute to discover that many have a big heart and are willing to share the
joys of the islands’ extraordinary history.

It was evident that I wasn’t going to get everything I needed from one short trip to Shetland.
From the Bronze Age settlement of Jarlshoff in the south of the isle to the geological wonder of
Uyeasound in the far north. There is just too much vibrancy and beauty spread throughout the land
to take in, in a single sitting.

John Thoumire, Wildwoods Publishing

Free Gaelic awareness sessions in Perth & Kinross!!!

elizabethhepburn — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 11:48:04 +0000

With funding from Bòrd na Gàidhlig, we have now been able to set up
Gaelic Awareness Sessions across the Perthshire area.

Gaelic Awareness Sessions are designed to raise awareness, inform and
build respect for the Gaelic language and culture and offer a clearer
understanding of its place in Scotland’s history and now in the 21st
Century. It will help with understanding why Gaelic is being
revitalised.

After this course, you’ll have a greater understanding of Gaelic and
its role it plays in Scotland today; you might even want to learn
Gaelic too!

The course is delivered in English and is led by Roddy MacLean, a
Gaelic journalist and broadcaster.

Course dates are as follows:

Public sessions are Friday 3rd May 9.30am-12.45pm Lecture Theatre, AK
Bell Library, Perth and Friday 24th May 9.30am-12.45pm Breadalbane
Community Campus, Aberfeldy.

PKC staff sessions are Friday 3rd May 1.30pm-4.45pm Blackfriars
Development Centre, Perth and Friday 24th May 1.30pm-4.45pm
Breadalbane Community Campus, Aberfeldy.

To book a place or for more information, please go online to
www.pkc.gov.uk/gaelic or contact the Gaelic Community Worker 01738
477866 or e-mail gaelic@pkc.ogv.uk

Family Time video with Mark Maguire

admin — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 09:43:08 +0000

I made this video back in 2009 when I put together my first video album. The thinking in this video is trying to work and make music within a family environment when everyone KEEPS INTERRUPTING YOU ALL TIME. I think I’ve nearly moved on from these feelings now…

It’s all go at Scotland Sings!

Simon Thoumire — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 10:04:20 +0000

It’s all go at Scotland Sings! The June 22nd public performance event is getting lots of interest. It’s good that it is the same time as European Music Day and Year of Natural Scotland giving lots of ideas for possible … Continue reading →

Distil Showcase 2013

Simon Thoumire — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 11:54:28 +0000

The Distil Showcase was held at Stirling’s Tolbooth on Friday 22nd March at 8pm. As in the previous few years the house band was Mr McFall’s Chamber who worked with Distil composers to realise their music. Read the programme notes.

The composers are

Jennifer Austin – Beyond
Amy Duncan – After falling
Gillian Fleetwood – Craft
Mhairi Hall – Act of Union?
Corrina Hewat – MD FUNK
Duncan Lyall – Earthrise
Calum MacCrimmon – Sunday Funday
Hamish Napier – Lament for John McGann
Ailie Robertson – Cumha na cloinne
Mike Vass and Mairearad Green – Day a month

Mr McFall’s Chamber

Rosenna East (1st vln), Robert McFall (2nd vln), Brian Schiele (vla), Su-a Lee (vcl),
Rick Standley (db)

Additional instrumentation

Violin: Adam Sutherland (Sunday Funday)
Piano: tba (Beyond, Lament for John McGann)
Guitar: Jenn Butterworth (Sunday Funday)
Vox: Amy Duncan (After falling), Jenn Butterworth (Sunday Funday)
Percussion: Donald Hay (Craft)
Electronics: Pippa Murphy (Cumha na cloinne)

Distil Residential 2013

Simon Thoumire — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 11:43:07 +0000

The next Distil Residential Course will take place between 24-27th October in New Lanark.

The workshop leaders are:

Chris Wood (fiddle, songwriter, traditional musician)
Brian Irvine (composer and improvisor)
Joost Boost (composer and improvisor)

More information soon.

http://www.distil.org.uk

Distil Showcase 2013

Simon Thoumire — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 11:35:54 +0000

The 2013 Distil Showcase was held at Stirling’s Tolbooth on Friday 22nd March at 8pm. As in the previous few years the house band was Mr McFall’s Chamber who worked with Distil composers to realise their music. Read the Programme Notes. Listen to thecompositions.

The composers were:

Jennifer Austin – Beyond
Amy Duncan – After falling
Gillian Fleetwood – Craft
Mhairi Hall – Act of Union?
Duncan Lyall – Earthrise
Calum MacCrimmon – Sunday Funday
Hamish Napier – Lament for John McGann
Ailie Robertson – Cumha na cloinne
Mike Vass and Mairearad Green – Day a month

Mr McFall’s Chamber

Rosenna East (1st vln), Robert McFall (2nd vln), Brian Schiele (vla), Su-a Lee (vcl),
Rick Standley (db)

Additional instrumentation

Free_C – improvised album

admin — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 08:21:05 +0000

This is a CD I made a few years ago when I was going for it experimenting with improvising and what the English concertina can do. I just sat down in front of the microphone in our dining room and waited to see what happened. This is the result…

Distil Showcase 2013 – what a night!

Simon Thoumire — Sat, 23 Mar 2013 15:37:43 +0000

Amy Duncan and Mr McFall’s Chamber

What a great night we had in Stirling for our 2013 Showcase. Mr McFall’s Chamber did an amazing job of performing all of the composers work. The running order of the event was

Day a Month – Mike Vass and Mairearad Green
Croft – Gillian Fleetwood
Act of Union? – Mhairi Hall
Lament for John McGann – Hamish Napier
Earthrise – Duncan Lyall
Airing – Jen Austin
Lewisman in Exile – Ailie Robertson
Constant Without Me – Amy Duncan
Sunday Funday – Calum MacCrimmon

Read the programme here. Have a listen to the performances below.

Here are some photos from the night