Launched by HRH The Prince Charles in August, 2008, North Highland Connections has developed a wide-ranging vision for working alongside other agencies and partners to offer a diverse cultural programme across the three counties of the North Highlands. It has also developed a vision for the creation of three iconic cultural ‘hubs’.

In order to deliver the ‘big vision’, which will benefit the local populations, and develop international cultural tourism, raising awareness of the region, NHC has entered into partnerships with eighteen organizations. These include national cultural and training partners which include the Royal Scottish Academy of Music & Drama; Edinburgh College of Art; The Prince’s Drawing School and most recently, St Mary’s Music School.

An exciting new link is being forged with the University of the Highlands & Islands. NHC has also entered into an agreement with five Nordic countries, to develop the North Highland Nordic Cultural Connections. The UK ambassadors of all five countries have become Honorary Patrons of NHC.

Since starting activity in August, 2008, NHC has promoted 110 different events in 37 different venues across the North Highlands. Among its most successful ventures is its Young Artistes Programme, offering opportunities for young emerging professionals to perform to appreciative audiences in the region. Many of the performers have roots in the Far North.

Currently NHC is also promoting a series of residencies which offer opportunities for local people, from school age to seniors, to participate. This programme is supported by a Highland LEADER grant, matched by funding from several charitable foundations.

NHC enjoys the support of a small group of distinguished advisors, including the celebrated painter, John Byrne, and the composer, James MacMillan. To these has now been added the iconic figure of Scottish Traditional Music, Phil Cunningham. Phil took part in a short Traditional Music residency last year. This year, in the autumn, he will take part in a further similar event involving students from RSAMD and local school children. This event will last five days and be centred on Kinlochbervie.

Meanwhile, in the first week of August, the third residency of students and staff from The Prince’s Drawing School will be based in Lybster. This year it offers opportunities for local painters to take part, and there will be a class each morning for children. The week will conclude with an exhibition of the work of participants.