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TMF Newsletter | February 2021
This newsletter is a space for our members, and others active in traditional music in Scotland, to share news, stories and thoughts. Contributions are always welcome.
Click here to send.
FROM THE NETHERBOW
We were feeling compelled to write about the multiple troubles music and musicians find themselves amid at the moment. But ach! there is not much to say beyond what has already been said about the props of our world of gigs and sessions and dances and workshops being kicked away by the shutdown demanded by the pandemic response; about the UK Government's failure to look after the interests of the live music sector in Brexit negotiations; and about the continuing impoverishment of musicians by the unsatisfactory structuring of streaming revenues, like hand-loom weavers of old forced into penury by mass manufacturing, labour exploited for little in return. We continue to work behind the scenes with colleagues in the Musicians Union, Scottish Music Industry Association, Culture Counts, Music Education Partnership Group, the Association of Festival Organisers, and in the TMF's network to make the case for better outcomes, and making sure the folk and trad voice is heard.
So we're not going to mention any of that. Instead, as temperatures plummet outside, we thought this quote would buoy us all up. It's from Gaelic bard, Murdani Mast, musing on his time sailing in the Antarctic, and it maybe brings us back to something essential in these fretful times.
Over-wintering in the Antarctic you got plenty of time to think about songs…When I’m composing a new song, I need to be on my own – coming home from the fishing, at the weaving, or on watch…The rise and fall of the ship, the rhythm of the waves, the porpoises jumping, the night sky, remembrances of home – any of these might bring a tune to my mind and whole verses would suddenly come in with a rush.
The words just seemed to come to me and, when the rest of the crew heard the song, they were thrilled with it. And they got me to compose more and more verses.
TMF BLOG:
TRAVEL AND HOME - by Chris Gray
The latest TMF blog is by multi-instrumentalist Chris Gray. Read about Chris' musical experiences and ventures, both when travelling and at home.
Talking about his debut album, Chris writes: "This music is inspired by experiences meeting new people, travelling, and playing music in different places, which is really such a privilege. I have always been extremely grateful for these opportunities, and they have became even more precious now."
WHAT IF...
CATCH UP WITH VIDEOS FROM OUR NOVEMBER CONFERENCE
On 14th November 2020 the Traditional Music Forum held an online event ‘What If…’, where people involved in traditional music in Scotland were invited to join the TMF and some guest speakers to discuss some post-Covid scenarios for Scotland’s Traditional Arts community.
We are now pleased to share with you videos of the presentations from our guest speakers for the day; Jenn Butterworth, Steve Byrne, Malcolm Reavell, Jim Sutherland, and Donald Smith. Shown below is the summary video.
You can watch all the videos on our website.
WHAT IF... Summary
MICHAEL BIGGINS WINS BBC RADIO SCOTLAND YOUNG TRADITIONAL MUSICIAN 2021
Pianist Michael Biggins has been named BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician for 2021.
The 23 year-old, originally from Newcastle but now living in Glasgow, accepted the award from Gareth Hydes, Commissioning Editor, BBC Scotland, in a year that saw a very different finale to the prestigious competition. Instead of the usual performances in front of a capacity audience at Glasgow’s City Halls, Covid restrictions saw the event moved to a socially-distanced setting at BBC Scotland’s HQ at the city’s Pacific Quay.
Presented by Bruce McGregor and Joy Dunlop, the event was broadcast on BBC Radio Scotland and BBC ALBA. Although a scaled down event, the performances were first-class, and judges were enthralled by Michael’s stage presence.
Winner Michael said: “The other finalists and I were delighted that the competition could go ahead this year because so many other events have had to be cancelled. It’s been a difficult year to be a performer, so winning this title has given me such a boost and a hope for better things to come. I know it’s been a springboard for many past winners, so I’d love to follow in their footsteps.”
Read the full article here.
BETWEEN ISLANDS PROJECT ONLINE
Despite some challenging circumstances in the past months, An Lanntair’s Between Islands project has now placed the majority of its activities online, with a range of short films, musical performances and three separate museum exhibitions now available to view on the dedicated website www.betweenislands.com.
The project, which is funded by LEADER, links arts and heritage organisations throughout the Northern and Western Isles, and was originally due to continue its series of events in the spring and summer of 2020. As the majority of the programme was based on live performances and physical exhibitions, the initiative had to be completely redesigned in order to take account of current restrictions.
Read the full press release here.
FÈIS ROIS - YOUTH ARTS SMALL GRANTS SCHEME FOR FOLK & TRADITIONAL MUSIC
The Youth Arts Small Grants Scheme is part of a Scottish Government Covid-19 Funding Package to support the arts, administered by Creative Scotland. Creative Scotland have devolved this fund to 18 organisations in Scotland. The strand of the fund being managed by Fèis Rois is open to freelance musicians living anywhere in Scotland and working in folk and traditional music. The grants aim to create work opportunities for freelance musicians and to provide arts activities for children and young people, especially those most affected by Covid-19.
Applicants can apply for between £500 – £5,000 to devise and deliver projects with young people. The overall budget for this fund is £40,000. If your application is successful, 90% of your award will be paid when you return your signed contract and 10% will be paid on submission of the final project report.
More info and how to apply here.
Fund closes: 14th March 2021, midnight
NURTURING TALENT - TIME TO SHINE FUND
Nurturing Talent - Time To Shine is a fund created by young people for young people and aims to support young people's creative ideas and ambitions, no matter whether they have lots of experience or they're just developing their interest in the arts.
Any young person living in Scotland who is aged 11 to 25 can apply for funding from the Nurturing Talent Fund. You can apply on your own or as part of a group.
You can apply for any amount between £50 and £1000. The fund aims to support young artists to create something that’s important to them and celebrate young people’s current talents, interests, engagement and development in arts and creativity in Scotland.
Next deadline: 14th March 2021
More info and how to apply here.
NEW MUSIC
EUAN MCLAUGHLIN - GRACE'S
Releases 12th February 2021
Available from bandcamp
Grace's is the latest single from Euan McLaughlin. He is joined buy Tiernan Courell on flute, Stephen Henderson on drums and percussion, and Angus Lyon on keys.
JACK BADCOCK - ENTROPY
Releases 12th February 2021
Available from bandcamp
Entropy is the first single to be released from the forth-coming EP 'The Driftwood Project' by singer and guitarist Jack Badcock.
JORDAN HEPBURN - FANKLES AND FRETS
Releases 18th February 2021
Available from jordanhepburn.com
Fankles and Frets is the new EP by Jordan Hepburn featuring original music and arrangements of Scottish traditional songs.
BRIAN FINNEGAN - HUNGER OF THE SKIN
Available for pre-order now from brianfinneganmusic
"In March 2020 I began a nightly ritual of making space to play and write, in truth it wasn’t an option not to, it felt like the house was being torn down and only in the night hours after my children had gone to sleep, did I find some semblance of stillness in which to turn complex old and new emotions and feelings into a form that has pointed me in the direction of ‘home’ all my life...music."
TIM EDEY - I GOT RHYTHM
Available for pre-order now from timedey.com
You can be involved in the making of Tim Edey's new album by pre-ordereing it and helping to fund it. The music was all recorded in one take during lockdown 2020, and is a selection of Tim's favourite music on guitar and some melodeon. He is joined by special guests Natalie MacMaster - fiddle, Donnell Leahy - fiddle, Michael McGoldrick - low whistle, flute, snare, Patsy Reid - strings, Tom Burnett - brass & Ross Ainslie - whistle, and it was produced by young upcoming Scottish producer David Macfarlane whom also plays on the record.
HANNAH RARITY - SCOTLAND YET
Releases 5th March 2021
Will be available from bandcamp
BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician winner 2018 Hannah Rarity has a new single coming out on 5th March, which just so happens to be the next #BandcampFriday.
Hannah is joined by John Lowrie, Euan Burton, and Innes White for their take on Davy Steel's song 'Scotland Yet'.
MAIRI CAMPBELL - STORM
Releases 26th March 2021
Available for pre-order now from bandcamp
Storm is the latest in a series of works from Mairi Campbell and long-time collaborator Dave Gray, now seeing Campbell realising the voice and music of Storm, a mythical goddess of the sea (who memorably stalked the streets of Glasgow during last year's Celtic Connections).
GRÁINNE BRADY - NEWCOMER
Releases 26th March 2021
Available for pre-order now from bandcamp
The music for this album was inspired by Irish writer Patrick MacGill’s second novel The Rat-Pit. Set at the turn of the 20th century, it tells the story of Norah Ryan who emigrated from Donegal to Scotland in search of a better life. A devout and intelligent young woman, Norah was nevertheless vulnerable to poverty, sexual exploitation, and great emotional loss.
GNOSS - THE LIGHT OF THE MOON
Releases 7th May 2021
More info coming soon...
gnossmusic.com
SARAH-JANE SUMMERS & JUHANI SILVOLA - THE SMOKY SMIRR O RAIN
Releases 21st May 2021
More info coming soon...
UPCOMING EVENTS
Breabach & Cat Bruce - Dùsgadh (Making of Trailer)
BREABACH - DÙSGADH (VIRTUAL TOUR)
11TH FEBRUARY - 6TH MARCH 2021
Dùsgadh (n. awakening) is an exciting new collaboration between Scottish Bafta winning animator Cat Bruce and internationally renowned, multi award-winning folk group, Breabach. This unique and innovative project takes the form of an animated film with original score. Based on ‘The Sea Maiden’ a folkloric tale collected by John Francis Campbell, the film is available to view in Gaelic and English, narrated by renowned tradition bearer Margaret Bennet. It features a soundtrack comprising five new pieces of music, one from each of Breabach’s five members. It is a powerful and poignant piece of work conceived and delivered throughout a turbulent and challenging year for the arts; all music was written, recorded and produced individually, from home.
The film is accompanied by a virtual tour across the UK this February offering audiences the opportunity not only to support the artists, but also some of the bands favourite venues and festivals. The hour long ‘evening with’ presentation features behind the scenes footage and unseen live performances as well as a Q & A hosted by BBC Radio Scotland broadcaster and musician Anna Massie.
More info and booking here.
FOLK ON FOOT - FESTIVAL OF LOVE
14TH FEBRUARY 2021, FROM 2PM
Who: Bella Hardy, Beth Porter and the Bookshop Band, The Breath, Chris Wood, Eliza Carthy, Gwilym Bowen Rhys, Heidi Talbot, Jon Boden, Karine Polwart, Kerry Andrew/You Are Wolf, Kitty Macfarlane, Kris Drever, Lady Nade, Lisa Knapp and Gerry Diver, Martin Simpson, Nancy Kerr and James Fagan, O’Hooley and Tidow, Peggy Seeger, Rachel Newton, Sam Lee, Seckou Keita, Seth Lakeman, Steve Knightley.
When: 2pm GMT on Valentine’s Day – Sunday February 14th 2021
Where: On the Folk on Foot YouTube Channel and Facebook Page.
More info and donations here.
FÈIS A' GHEARRAIN - WEEK 2
15TH - 17TH FEBRUARY 2021
Between 15-17 February, Fèis Inbhir Narainn will deliver three days of classes online through Zoom! You will find more information by following the link below where you can also book places. Please note that when you make your selection you will be booked for the classes from Monday – Wednesday.
The majority of classes will be suitable for children aged between 8 and 18 but there will also be a Fèis Bheag class for children aged 5 – 7.
Classes are offered free but donations would be welcome to help cover costs.
More info and booking here.
SCOTTISH CULTURE & TRADITIONS YOUTH FREE SINGING WORKSHOPS
21ST FEBRUARY 2021
SC&T Youth are putting on some amazing free singing workshops for participants aged 6 - 26 years this February.
1pm - 2.30pm: Scots Song with Amy Papiransky
2.30pm - 4pm: Gaelic Song with Ewen Henderson
More info and sign up here.
DALLAHAN LIVE @ HANDS UP FOR TRAD MUSIC CLUB
26TH FEBRUARY 2021, 8PM
Dallahan perform a live set for Hands Up For Trad Music Club straight to your living room!
Dallahan is one of the most distinct forces in the international folk music scene. Forged in Scotland and Ireland's traditional music community, but drawing on the traditional music styles of the Balkans and North America, they create an original and seamless musical montage, blending their contemporary influences from jazz, funk, and pop music. Dallahan take their listeners on a journey, traversing styles and countries of the world in a dazzling live show, creating their own unique brand of World-folk delivered with stunning virtuosity.
More info and tickets here.
CCM LIVE ONLINE MUSIC FESTIVAL
26TH - 28TH FEBRUARY 2021
CCM Live presents a brand new, LIVE online music festival featuring nine outstanding artists.
Over the last weekend of February, seven leading Scottish acts - Blazin' Fiddles, Gnoss, Ímar, Jenna Reid, RURA, Siobhan Miller, and Talisk - will broadcast live from Capture Works in Glasgow, alongside brand new sets from leading Finnish folk group Frigg, and multi award-winning Canadian roots duo Madison Violet.
Tune in from the comfort of your sofa as we stream live, full-length, full production and fully covid-safe festival sets to your homes!
Nine acts, three nights, one fantastic weekend of LIVE music!
Get your tickets here.
SCOTTISH CULTURE & TRADITIONS
MINI SPRING SING WITH IONA FYFE
27TH FEBRUARY 2021
From 11am - 1.30pm on Saturday 27th February, join Iona Fyfe for this fantastic song workshop in conjunction with SC&T. The workshop costs £10 and will be held on zoom.
More info and booking here.
SCOTTISH CULTURE & TRADITIONS SPRING TERM ONLINE
1ST MARCH - 1ST JUNE 2021
SC&T are running a 12-week online term starting the week beginning 1st March. Classes will take place on Mondays and Tuesdays from 7pm on zoom. You will be able to access all the lesson material as well as the recorded zoom lessons.
Classes are available in session tunes, whistle, flute, guitar, fiddle, mandolin, tenor banjo, pipes, ukulele, harmonica, and choir.
More info and how to sign up here.
HARP WORKSHOPS WITH AILIE ROBERTSON
6th March 2021, 2pm - 6pm
Arranging for Celtic Harp
Join Ailie for this 4 hour workshop which will teach harpers, step by step, how to make their own arrangements. We will be looking at chords, inversions, pedals, ostinatos, and much more.
Suitable for harpists from Grade 3+
Limited to 15 spaces
13th March 2021, 3pm - 6pm
Tame Your Technique
Have you been playing for a little while now but know your technique needs some tightening up? Join Ailie for this 3 hour workshop focussing on Harp Technique in a supportive and friendly online environment. Improve your sound quality and increase your technical proficiency so you can get the most enjoyment from your harp!
For Elementary Harpists
20th March 2021, 3pm - 6pm
Dance-Tune Dexterity
Are you struggling to play as fast as you'd like? Do you find fast tunes much harder than slow ones? Do triplets trip you up? In this workshop we'll look at techniques and exercises to help you increase your dexterity and speed, and improve your ornaments!
27th March 2021, 3pm - 6pm
Stunning Slow Airs
Learn some beautiful slow airs from Scotland and Ireland in this workshop for elementary-intermediate players.
HANDS UP FOR TRAD TINTO SPRING SCHOOL ONLINE
19TH - 21ST MARCH 2021
Tinto Spring School is the third online music school from Hands Up For Trad for participants aged 11-18 years. The spring music school will offer online classes in:
Guitar / Song / Song arranging (Jenn Butterworth)
Fiddle / Mixed instruments and more (Adam Sutherland)
More info and tickets here.
EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL HARP FESTIVAL ONLINE
9TH - 12TH APRIL 2021
The Edinburgh International Harp Festival is the UK’s premier harping event: an annual celebration and gathering of musical talents from the global harp community, and The Clarsach Society’s flagship event.
EIHF 2021– celebrating 40 years of the Festival and 90 years of The Clarsach Society – will take place online from Friday 9th to Monday 12th April inclusive. The online festival will feature three days and four nights of concerts, courses, and workshops.
More info and booking here.
OPPORTUNITIES
MUSICIANS WANTED FOR FÈISEAN NAN GÀIDHEAL'S FÈISTV OIDE
Fèisean nan Gàidheal are currently looking for a range of contractors to submit proposals to offer services to Fèisean nan Gàidheal, to develop and present online traditional music and Gaelic song tuition videos as part of the Oide strand of FèisTV.
Contracts of up to £1,500
Closing date: 26th February 2021
More info here.
RESOURCES
HARP SCOTLAND - BY HEATHER DOWNIE
UNIQUE MONTHLY SUBSCRIPTION FOR HARP PLAYERS
This monthly subscription gives you a taste of everything harp, as well as everything Scotland! Scottish music is about so much more than the dots on the page! Join Heather Downie on a road less travelled and truly experience Scottish Harp music...
Each month you will learn one full harp arrangement through a series of 4 pre-recorded video tutorials. The lessons guide you through the main learning points of your new piece.
You can access your lessons at any point during the month and revisit them as many times as you like. Beginner and advanced options will be available, sheet music will be given to support learning.
More info and to subscribe click here.
CEOL IS CRADH
Where would we be without music and musicians? So many of us derive pleasure from their talent and ability to move us, cheer us up or perfectly express how we feel. But research has shown that the majority of musicians struggle with depression or anxiety at some point in their lives. Singer Mischa MacPherson looks into some of the reasons behind this and speaks to various musicians to hear about the impact on their lives. Speaking openly and honestly, musicians such as Corrina Hewat and Ross Ainslie offer a powerful and personal insight into the issue.
Make sure you watch this ASAP - it's only available on iPlayer for a few more days!
Watch it now here.
THE TMSA PRESENTS A VIRTUAL CONCERT AND WORKSHOPS WITH SOME OF SCOTLAND'S TOP MUSICIANS
The TMSA Young Trad Tour came together to record a one-off live performance of their highly acclaimed studio album recorded earlier this year in March. The video, featuring 7 of Scotland’s best young musicians, debuted on Hogmanay. The live performance of the album was filmed in late September, in-line with Covid-19 guidelines at the time, at Adelaide’s Church in Glasgow.
The young musicians also recorded a workshop based on a song or tune featured in the concert, which were released in the weeks following the premiere.
The TMSA Young Trad Tour group comprises of Benedict Morris, fiddle (Glasgow), winner of the BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician of the Year Competition, joined by finalists:
Cameron Ross – fiddle (Stonehaven)
Catherine Tinney – voice (Isle of Skye)
Luc McNally– guitar / voice (Dipton)
Ross Miller – bagpipes (Linlithgow)
Sarah Markey – flute (Coatbridge)
Hannah Rarity – Song (Dechmont) (2018 winner)
The live performance was captured and edited by Sam Hurt with the audio recorded and mixed by John Weatherby and Kris Koren (Soundsense). The album was recorded and mixed by Angus Lyon and Chris Waite at Gran’s House studio in South Lanarkshire before being mastered at the renowned Castlesound Studios, Pencaitland, East Lothian. The album, concert film and workshops are both supported by Creative Scotland.
For further information and to purchase the CD, visit www.tmsa.scot
All workshops available here.
The TMSA Young Trad Tour In Concert
PODCASTS
MR THOUMIRE'S FINE TUNES
FOOT STOMPIN' FREE SCOTTISH MUSIC PODCAST
No. 216
With music from Peatbog Faeries, Blue Rose Code ft. Karine Polwart, Will Marshall, Rachel Walker, Jordan Hepburn, Mec Lir, McCusker McGoldrick Doyle, Ryan Molloy ft. Jarlath Henderson, Whippersnapper, Fraser Fifield, Norrie McIver and The Glasgow Barons, John Dew.
No. 215
With music from Martyn Bennett, Skipinnish, Benedict Morris, Julie Fowlis, Glenfinnan Ceilidh Band, Ossian, Rebecaa Hill, Ryan Molloy & Fergal Scahill, Karine Polwart & Pippa Murphy, Westward The Light, Blazin' Fiddles, Jarlath Henderson, The Fire.
No. 214
With music from Catriona McKay, Adam Sutherland, Dallahan, Ali Levack, Malinky, Fraser Fifield, Mairi Campbell, Joy & Andrew, Duncan Lyall, Jenny Sturgeon, Talisk.
No. 213
With music from The Islay Sessioners, Norrie Maciver & The Glasgow Barons, Ross Ainslie & Ali Hutton & Jenn Butterworth, Mairearad Gree, Karen Matheson, Fiddlers' Bid, Maeve Mackinnon, Fergus McCreadie, Salt House, Tide Lines, Tom Richardson, Hannah Rarity, Niteworks.
GET INVOLVED
Do you have an event or news item you'd like us to promote? Would you, or anyone in your organisation, like to write a blog for us? We welcome submissions! Please contact us.
Not a member yet? Join us for just £20 a year and benefit from being round the table, receiving support and access to our services.
The more organisations that join us, the louder and stronger our voice. Membership is open to organisations and individuals working in the field of traditional music in Scotland.
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TMF Newsletter | February 2021
This newsletter is a space for our members, and others active in traditional music in Scotland, to share news, stories and thoughts. Contributions are always welcome.
Click here to send.
FROM THE NETHERBOW
We were feeling compelled to write about the multiple troubles music and musicians find themselves amid at the moment. But ach! there is not much to say beyond what has already been said about the props of our world of gigs and sessions and dances and workshops being kicked away by the shutdown demanded by the pandemic response; about the UK Government's failure to look after the interests of the live music sector in Brexit negotiations; and about the continuing impoverishment of musicians by the unsatisfactory structuring of streaming revenues, like hand-loom weavers of old forced into penury by mass manufacturing, labour exploited for little in return. We continue to work behind the scenes with colleagues in the Musicians Union, Scottish Music Industry Association, Culture Counts, Music Education Partnership Group, the Association of Festival Organisers, and in the TMF's network to make the case for better outcomes, and making sure the folk and trad voice is heard.
So we're not going to mention any of that. Instead, as temperatures plummet outside, we thought this quote would buoy us all up. It's from Gaelic bard, Murdani Mast, musing on his time sailing in the Antarctic, and it maybe brings us back to something essential in these fretful times.
Over-wintering in the Antarctic you got plenty of time to think about songs…When I’m composing a new song, I need to be on my own – coming home from the fishing, at the weaving, or on watch…The rise and fall of the ship, the rhythm of the waves, the porpoises jumping, the night sky, remembrances of home – any of these might bring a tune to my mind and whole verses would suddenly come in with a rush.
The words just seemed to come to me and, when the rest of the crew heard the song, they were thrilled with it. And they got me to compose more and more verses.
TMF BLOG:
TRAVEL AND HOME - by Chris Gray
The latest TMF blog is by multi-instrumentalist Chris Gray. Read about Chris' musical experiences and ventures, both when travelling and at home.
Talking about his debut album, Chris writes: "This music is inspired by experiences meeting new people, travelling, and playing music in different places, which is really such a privilege. I have always been extremely grateful for these opportunities, and they have became even more precious now."
WHAT IF...
CATCH UP WITH VIDEOS FROM OUR NOVEMBER CONFERENCE
On 14th November 2020 the Traditional Music Forum held an online event ‘What If…’, where people involved in traditional music in Scotland were invited to join the TMF and some guest speakers to discuss some post-Covid scenarios for Scotland’s Traditional Arts community.
We are now pleased to share with you videos of the presentations from our guest speakers for the day; Jenn Butterworth, Steve Byrne, Malcolm Reavell, Jim Sutherland, and Donald Smith. Shown below is the summary video.
You can watch all the videos on our website.
WHAT IF... Summary
MICHAEL BIGGINS WINS BBC RADIO SCOTLAND YOUNG TRADITIONAL MUSICIAN 2021
Pianist Michael Biggins has been named BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician for 2021.
The 23 year-old, originally from Newcastle but now living in Glasgow, accepted the award from Gareth Hydes, Commissioning Editor, BBC Scotland, in a year that saw a very different finale to the prestigious competition. Instead of the usual performances in front of a capacity audience at Glasgow’s City Halls, Covid restrictions saw the event moved to a socially-distanced setting at BBC Scotland’s HQ at the city’s Pacific Quay.
Presented by Bruce McGregor and Joy Dunlop, the event was broadcast on BBC Radio Scotland and BBC ALBA. Although a scaled down event, the performances were first-class, and judges were enthralled by Michael’s stage presence.
Winner Michael said: “The other finalists and I were delighted that the competition could go ahead this year because so many other events have had to be cancelled. It’s been a difficult year to be a performer, so winning this title has given me such a boost and a hope for better things to come. I know it’s been a springboard for many past winners, so I’d love to follow in their footsteps.”
Read the full article here.
BETWEEN ISLANDS PROJECT ONLINE
Despite some challenging circumstances in the past months, An Lanntair’s Between Islands project has now placed the majority of its activities online, with a range of short films, musical performances and three separate museum exhibitions now available to view on the dedicated website www.betweenislands.com.
The project, which is funded by LEADER, links arts and heritage organisations throughout the Northern and Western Isles, and was originally due to continue its series of events in the spring and summer of 2020. As the majority of the programme was based on live performances and physical exhibitions, the initiative had to be completely redesigned in order to take account of current restrictions.
Read the full press release here.
FÈIS ROIS - YOUTH ARTS SMALL GRANTS SCHEME FOR FOLK & TRADITIONAL MUSIC
The Youth Arts Small Grants Scheme is part of a Scottish Government Covid-19 Funding Package to support the arts, administered by Creative Scotland. Creative Scotland have devolved this fund to 18 organisations in Scotland. The strand of the fund being managed by Fèis Rois is open to freelance musicians living anywhere in Scotland and working in folk and traditional music. The grants aim to create work opportunities for freelance musicians and to provide arts activities for children and young people, especially those most affected by Covid-19.
Applicants can apply for between £500 – £5,000 to devise and deliver projects with young people. The overall budget for this fund is £40,000. If your application is successful, 90% of your award will be paid when you return your signed contract and 10% will be paid on submission of the final project report.
More info and how to apply here.
Fund closes: 14th March 2021, midnight
NURTURING TALENT - TIME TO SHINE FUND
Nurturing Talent - Time To Shine is a fund created by young people for young people and aims to support young people's creative ideas and ambitions, no matter whether they have lots of experience or they're just developing their interest in the arts.
Any young person living in Scotland who is aged 11 to 25 can apply for funding from the Nurturing Talent Fund. You can apply on your own or as part of a group.
You can apply for any amount between £50 and £1000. The fund aims to support young artists to create something that’s important to them and celebrate young people’s current talents, interests, engagement and development in arts and creativity in Scotland.
Next deadline: 14th March 2021
More info and how to apply here.
NEW MUSIC
EUAN MCLAUGHLIN - GRACE'S
Releases 12th February 2021
Available from bandcamp
Grace's is the latest single from Euan McLaughlin. He is joined buy Tiernan Courell on flute, Stephen Henderson on drums and percussion, and Angus Lyon on keys.
JACK BADCOCK - ENTROPY
Releases 12th February 2021
Available from bandcamp
Entropy is the first single to be released from the forth-coming EP 'The Driftwood Project' by singer and guitarist Jack Badcock.
JORDAN HEPBURN - FANKLES AND FRETS
Releases 18th February 2021
Available from jordanhepburn.com
Fankles and Frets is the new EP by Jordan Hepburn featuring original music and arrangements of Scottish traditional songs.
BRIAN FINNEGAN - HUNGER OF THE SKIN
Available for pre-order now from brianfinneganmusic
"In March 2020 I began a nightly ritual of making space to play and write, in truth it wasn’t an option not to, it felt like the house was being torn down and only in the night hours after my children had gone to sleep, did I find some semblance of stillness in which to turn complex old and new emotions and feelings into a form that has pointed me in the direction of ‘home’ all my life...music."
TIM EDEY - I GOT RHYTHM
Available for pre-order now from timedey.com
You can be involved in the making of Tim Edey's new album by pre-ordereing it and helping to fund it. The music was all recorded in one take during lockdown 2020, and is a selection of Tim's favourite music on guitar and some melodeon. He is joined by special guests Natalie MacMaster - fiddle, Donnell Leahy - fiddle, Michael McGoldrick - low whistle, flute, snare, Patsy Reid - strings, Tom Burnett - brass & Ross Ainslie - whistle, and it was produced by young upcoming Scottish producer David Macfarlane whom also plays on the record.
HANNAH RARITY - SCOTLAND YET
Releases 5th March 2021
Will be available from bandcamp
BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician winner 2018 Hannah Rarity has a new single coming out on 5th March, which just so happens to be the next #BandcampFriday.
Hannah is joined by John Lowrie, Euan Burton, and Innes White for their take on Davy Steel's song 'Scotland Yet'.
MAIRI CAMPBELL - STORM
Releases 26th March 2021
Available for pre-order now from bandcamp
Storm is the latest in a series of works from Mairi Campbell and long-time collaborator Dave Gray, now seeing Campbell realising the voice and music of Storm, a mythical goddess of the sea (who memorably stalked the streets of Glasgow during last year's Celtic Connections).
GRÁINNE BRADY - NEWCOMER
Releases 26th March 2021
Available for pre-order now from bandcamp
The music for this album was inspired by Irish writer Patrick MacGill’s second novel The Rat-Pit. Set at the turn of the 20th century, it tells the story of Norah Ryan who emigrated from Donegal to Scotland in search of a better life. A devout and intelligent young woman, Norah was nevertheless vulnerable to poverty, sexual exploitation, and great emotional loss.
GNOSS - THE LIGHT OF THE MOON
Releases 7th May 2021
More info coming soon...
gnossmusic.com
SARAH-JANE SUMMERS & JUHANI SILVOLA - THE SMOKY SMIRR O RAIN
Releases 21st May 2021
More info coming soon...
UPCOMING EVENTS
Breabach & Cat Bruce - Dùsgadh (Making of Trailer)
BREABACH - DÙSGADH (VIRTUAL TOUR)
11TH FEBRUARY - 6TH MARCH 2021
Dùsgadh (n. awakening) is an exciting new collaboration between Scottish Bafta winning animator Cat Bruce and internationally renowned, multi award-winning folk group, Breabach. This unique and innovative project takes the form of an animated film with original score. Based on ‘The Sea Maiden’ a folkloric tale collected by John Francis Campbell, the film is available to view in Gaelic and English, narrated by renowned tradition bearer Margaret Bennet. It features a soundtrack comprising five new pieces of music, one from each of Breabach’s five members. It is a powerful and poignant piece of work conceived and delivered throughout a turbulent and challenging year for the arts; all music was written, recorded and produced individually, from home.
The film is accompanied by a virtual tour across the UK this February offering audiences the opportunity not only to support the artists, but also some of the bands favourite venues and festivals. The hour long ‘evening with’ presentation features behind the scenes footage and unseen live performances as well as a Q & A hosted by BBC Radio Scotland broadcaster and musician Anna Massie.
More info and booking here.
FOLK ON FOOT - FESTIVAL OF LOVE
14TH FEBRUARY 2021, FROM 2PM
Who: Bella Hardy, Beth Porter and the Bookshop Band, The Breath, Chris Wood, Eliza Carthy, Gwilym Bowen Rhys, Heidi Talbot, Jon Boden, Karine Polwart, Kerry Andrew/You Are Wolf, Kitty Macfarlane, Kris Drever, Lady Nade, Lisa Knapp and Gerry Diver, Martin Simpson, Nancy Kerr and James Fagan, O’Hooley and Tidow, Peggy Seeger, Rachel Newton, Sam Lee, Seckou Keita, Seth Lakeman, Steve Knightley.
When: 2pm GMT on Valentine’s Day – Sunday February 14th 2021
Where: On the Folk on Foot YouTube Channel and Facebook Page.
More info and donations here.
FÈIS A' GHEARRAIN - WEEK 2
15TH - 17TH FEBRUARY 2021
Between 15-17 February, Fèis Inbhir Narainn will deliver three days of classes online through Zoom! You will find more information by following the link below where you can also book places. Please note that when you make your selection you will be booked for the classes from Monday – Wednesday.
The majority of classes will be suitable for children aged between 8 and 18 but there will also be a Fèis Bheag class for children aged 5 – 7.
Classes are offered free but donations would be welcome to help cover costs.
More info and booking here.
SCOTTISH CULTURE & TRADITIONS YOUTH FREE SINGING WORKSHOPS
21ST FEBRUARY 2021
SC&T Youth are putting on some amazing free singing workshops for participants aged 6 - 26 years this February.
1pm - 2.30pm: Scots Song with Amy Papiransky
2.30pm - 4pm: Gaelic Song with Ewen Henderson
More info and sign up here.
DALLAHAN LIVE @ HANDS UP FOR TRAD MUSIC CLUB
26TH FEBRUARY 2021, 8PM
Dallahan perform a live set for Hands Up For Trad Music Club straight to your living room!
Dallahan is one of the most distinct forces in the international folk music scene. Forged in Scotland and Ireland's traditional music community, but drawing on the traditional music styles of the Balkans and North America, they create an original and seamless musical montage, blending their contemporary influences from jazz, funk, and pop music. Dallahan take their listeners on a journey, traversing styles and countries of the world in a dazzling live show, creating their own unique brand of World-folk delivered with stunning virtuosity.
More info and tickets here.
CCM LIVE ONLINE MUSIC FESTIVAL
26TH - 28TH FEBRUARY 2021
CCM Live presents a brand new, LIVE online music festival featuring nine outstanding artists.
Over the last weekend of February, seven leading Scottish acts - Blazin' Fiddles, Gnoss, Ímar, Jenna Reid, RURA, Siobhan Miller, and Talisk - will broadcast live from Capture Works in Glasgow, alongside brand new sets from leading Finnish folk group Frigg, and multi award-winning Canadian roots duo Madison Violet.
Tune in from the comfort of your sofa as we stream live, full-length, full production and fully covid-safe festival sets to your homes!
Nine acts, three nights, one fantastic weekend of LIVE music!
Get your tickets here.
SCOTTISH CULTURE & TRADITIONS
MINI SPRING SING WITH IONA FYFE
27TH FEBRUARY 2021
From 11am - 1.30pm on Saturday 27th February, join Iona Fyfe for this fantastic song workshop in conjunction with SC&T. The workshop costs £10 and will be held on zoom.
More info and booking here.
SCOTTISH CULTURE & TRADITIONS SPRING TERM ONLINE
1ST MARCH - 1ST JUNE 2021
SC&T are running a 12-week online term starting the week beginning 1st March. Classes will take place on Mondays and Tuesdays from 7pm on zoom. You will be able to access all the lesson material as well as the recorded zoom lessons.
Classes are available in session tunes, whistle, flute, guitar, fiddle, mandolin, tenor banjo, pipes, ukulele, harmonica, and choir.
More info and how to sign up here.
HARP WORKSHOPS WITH AILIE ROBERTSON
6th March 2021, 2pm - 6pm
Arranging for Celtic Harp
Join Ailie for this 4 hour workshop which will teach harpers, step by step, how to make their own arrangements. We will be looking at chords, inversions, pedals, ostinatos, and much more.
Suitable for harpists from Grade 3+
Limited to 15 spaces
13th March 2021, 3pm - 6pm
Tame Your Technique
Have you been playing for a little while now but know your technique needs some tightening up? Join Ailie for this 3 hour workshop focussing on Harp Technique in a supportive and friendly online environment. Improve your sound quality and increase your technical proficiency so you can get the most enjoyment from your harp!
For Elementary Harpists
20th March 2021, 3pm - 6pm
Dance-Tune Dexterity
Are you struggling to play as fast as you'd like? Do you find fast tunes much harder than slow ones? Do triplets trip you up? In this workshop we'll look at techniques and exercises to help you increase your dexterity and speed, and improve your ornaments!
27th March 2021, 3pm - 6pm
Stunning Slow Airs
Learn some beautiful slow airs from Scotland and Ireland in this workshop for elementary-intermediate players.
HANDS UP FOR TRAD TINTO SPRING SCHOOL ONLINE
19TH - 21ST MARCH 2021
Tinto Spring School is the third online music school from Hands Up For Trad for participants aged 11-18 years. The spring music school will offer online classes in:
Guitar / Song / Song arranging (Jenn Butterworth)
Fiddle / Mixed instruments and more (Adam Sutherland)
More info and tickets here.
EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL HARP FESTIVAL ONLINE
9TH - 12TH APRIL 2021
The Edinburgh International Harp Festival is the UK’s premier harping event: an annual celebration and gathering of musical talents from the global harp community, and The Clarsach Society’s flagship event.
EIHF 2021– celebrating 40 years of the Festival and 90 years of The Clarsach Society – will take place online from Friday 9th to Monday 12th April inclusive. The online festival will feature three days and four nights of concerts, courses, and workshops.
More info and booking here.
OPPORTUNITIES
MUSICIANS WANTED FOR FÈISEAN NAN GÀIDHEAL'S FÈISTV OIDE
Fèisean nan Gàidheal are currently looking for a range of contractors to submit proposals to offer services to Fèisean nan Gàidheal, to develop and present online traditional music and Gaelic song tuition videos as part of the Oide strand of FèisTV.
Contracts of up to £1,500
Closing date: 26th February 2021
More info here.
RESOURCES
HARP SCOTLAND - BY HEATHER DOWNIE
UNIQUE MONTHLY SUBSCRIPTION FOR HARP PLAYERS
This monthly subscription gives you a taste of everything harp, as well as everything Scotland! Scottish music is about so much more than the dots on the page! Join Heather Downie on a road less travelled and truly experience Scottish Harp music...
Each month you will learn one full harp arrangement through a series of 4 pre-recorded video tutorials. The lessons guide you through the main learning points of your new piece.
You can access your lessons at any point during the month and revisit them as many times as you like. Beginner and advanced options will be available, sheet music will be given to support learning.
More info and to subscribe click here.
CEOL IS CRADH
Where would we be without music and musicians? So many of us derive pleasure from their talent and ability to move us, cheer us up or perfectly express how we feel. But research has shown that the majority of musicians struggle with depression or anxiety at some point in their lives. Singer Mischa MacPherson looks into some of the reasons behind this and speaks to various musicians to hear about the impact on their lives. Speaking openly and honestly, musicians such as Corrina Hewat and Ross Ainslie offer a powerful and personal insight into the issue.
Make sure you watch this ASAP - it's only available on iPlayer for a few more days!
Watch it now here.
THE TMSA PRESENTS A VIRTUAL CONCERT AND WORKSHOPS WITH SOME OF SCOTLAND'S TOP MUSICIANS
The TMSA Young Trad Tour came together to record a one-off live performance of their highly acclaimed studio album recorded earlier this year in March. The video, featuring 7 of Scotland’s best young musicians, debuted on Hogmanay. The live performance of the album was filmed in late September, in-line with Covid-19 guidelines at the time, at Adelaide’s Church in Glasgow.
The young musicians also recorded a workshop based on a song or tune featured in the concert, which were released in the weeks following the premiere.
The TMSA Young Trad Tour group comprises of Benedict Morris, fiddle (Glasgow), winner of the BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician of the Year Competition, joined by finalists:
Cameron Ross – fiddle (Stonehaven)
Catherine Tinney – voice (Isle of Skye)
Luc McNally– guitar / voice (Dipton)
Ross Miller – bagpipes (Linlithgow)
Sarah Markey – flute (Coatbridge)
Hannah Rarity – Song (Dechmont) (2018 winner)
The live performance was captured and edited by Sam Hurt with the audio recorded and mixed by John Weatherby and Kris Koren (Soundsense). The album was recorded and mixed by Angus Lyon and Chris Waite at Gran’s House studio in South Lanarkshire before being mastered at the renowned Castlesound Studios, Pencaitland, East Lothian. The album, concert film and workshops are both supported by Creative Scotland.
For further information and to purchase the CD, visit www.tmsa.scot
All workshops available here.
The TMSA Young Trad Tour In Concert
PODCASTS
MR THOUMIRE'S FINE TUNES
FOOT STOMPIN' FREE SCOTTISH MUSIC PODCAST
No. 216
With music from Peatbog Faeries, Blue Rose Code ft. Karine Polwart, Will Marshall, Rachel Walker, Jordan Hepburn, Mec Lir, McCusker McGoldrick Doyle, Ryan Molloy ft. Jarlath Henderson, Whippersnapper, Fraser Fifield, Norrie McIver and The Glasgow Barons, John Dew.
No. 215
With music from Martyn Bennett, Skipinnish, Benedict Morris, Julie Fowlis, Glenfinnan Ceilidh Band, Ossian, Rebecaa Hill, Ryan Molloy & Fergal Scahill, Karine Polwart & Pippa Murphy, Westward The Light, Blazin' Fiddles, Jarlath Henderson, The Fire.
No. 214
With music from Catriona McKay, Adam Sutherland, Dallahan, Ali Levack, Malinky, Fraser Fifield, Mairi Campbell, Joy & Andrew, Duncan Lyall, Jenny Sturgeon, Talisk.
No. 213
With music from The Islay Sessioners, Norrie Maciver & The Glasgow Barons, Ross Ainslie & Ali Hutton & Jenn Butterworth, Mairearad Gree, Karen Matheson, Fiddlers' Bid, Maeve Mackinnon, Fergus McCreadie, Salt House, Tide Lines, Tom Richardson, Hannah Rarity, Niteworks.
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TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) is an organisation that brings together three forums: The Storytelling Forum, The Dance Forum and The Traditional Music Forum in a collaborative alliance designed to improve the knowledge, practice, development and advocacy of Scotland’s traditional arts in a contemporary world.
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