An important strand of North Highland Connections’ work is in promoting cultural and educational residencies around the region. Currently NHC is promoting a series of 12 such activities at various centres. These are promoted in collaboration with local volunteer groups and schools, with financial support from a Highland LEADER award, matched by private foundation funding.

The next residency will be based at Castletown Heritage Centre, near Thurso. Titled ‘Singing for All’, it begins on Tuesday, 20^th September, and will incorporate preparation for the Edwardian Concert presented by Castletown Heritage Society on Friday, 23^rd September.

The leader is Professor Chris Underwood, lately Head of Vocal Studies at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (formerly known as the Royal Scottish Academy of Music & Drama), which is one of NHC’s 19 formal partners.

Master classes will be held at the Heritage Centre on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 7:00 to 9:00pm. Participants and observers are welcome; there is no charge. During each day Professor Underwood will visit schools to work with local children, some of whom will participate in the final concert.

That concert will take place in the Drill Hall at 7:30pm on Friday, 23^rd September. Admission is £5 (£3 concessions) by programme at the door. The concert programme has been researched by the Heritage Society, and recreates a concert given in the Hall one hundred years ago.

Further information about the classes and the concert can be obtained from the Heritage Centre, or by phoning 07521077053.

NHC has already successfully promoted the LEADER-supported events focussed on visual arts, drama and string playing. In November there will be a Traditional Music residency in Kinlochbervie, led by the celebrated musician, Phil Cunningham. Further information from NHC, e-mail: MF@northhighlandconnections.org

Source: North Highland Connections