A Little Bird Blown off Course

Created and performed by Fiona J MacKenzie

Musical Director, Donald Shaw; Dramaturg, Bart Capelle; Video Designer, Colin Bell and Colin O’Hara, Design Associate.

Celebrating the life and Gaelic song collection of Margaret Fay Shaw, A Little Bird Blown off Course is a new piece of music–theatre by Fiona J Mackenzie, presented by the National Theatre of Scotland and Blas Festival in partnership with the National Trust for Scotland.

The production will open at the Culloden Battlefield Centre on 06 September and then tour the Highlands of Scotland. There will be a special final performance at Camus Arts Centre on the island of Canna on 14 September.

Margaret Fay Shaw was one of the most notable and important collectors of authentic Scottish Gaelic song in the 20th century, even though her name may not be well-known outside of traditional music circles.

Born in Glenshaw, Pennsylvania USA, Margaret came to Scotland as a teenager and spent a year at school in Helensburgh. She went on to study music in Paris and New York, but returned to Scotland and eventually settled on South Uist. Whilst living there, she met the Gaelic scholar John Lorne Campbell and they married in 1935. For the rest of their lives, the couple were to dedicate themselves to the collecting and preserving of Gaelic songs and folklore for future generations.

Lifting extracts from Margaret’s autobiography, letters, personal photography and previously unseen film footage of island life, A Little Bird Blown off Course will cast fresh light on the importance of this collection to Gaelic culture past and present, and examine the role new Gaelic speakers play in reinvigorating the language. The production will feature live music and song, including extracts from the Gaelic song collection that Margaret and John created and preserved and that form the rich legacy they have bequeathed to Scotland.

The production promises to be an intimate but ambitious new piece of contemporary theatre that melds music, text and video with installation, to highlight the importance of new Gaelic speakers to the survival of Gaelic language and culture, for generations to come.

The creation of A Little Bird Blown Off Course has been led by Fiona J Mackenzie, the BBC Scotland Traditional Music Personality of the Year (2004) and winner of the Burnsong International Songwriting Competition (2009).

This production marks the end of Fiona’s year long attachment to the Company as an Associate Artist (Gaelic), and is the Company’s second Gaelic drama production, following the commission and presentation of bi-lingual play Somersaults by Iain Finlay Macleod in 2011.

Fiona J McKenzie says

“Margaret’s book “Folksongs and Folklore of South Uist” was my first contact with Gaelic song many years ago and has remained my ‘bible’ ever since and having the privilege to work on the original material with Magda Sagarzazzu, the Canna archivist, has been one of the most enlightening and exciting experiences of my life. It is very heartening to see major national bodies such as the National Theatre of Scotland and the National Trust for Scotland working together with the Blas Festival, to produce a piece of work which will hopefully increase awareness and develop new audiences for Gaelic cultural events. I’m very much looking forward to touring the show throughout my own home, in the Highlands.”

Caroline Newall, Director of Artistic Development says

“The National Theatre of Scotland is delighted to be working together with the Blas Festival, in partnership with the National Trust for Scotland, to present Fiona J MacKenzie’s new music theatre production. As a national performing arts company, the National Theatre of Scotland is committed to developing and presenting Gaelic work of the highest quality, to provide for, and build, audiences for Gaelic performance. We are thrilled by the possibilities for incorporating traditional Gaelic arts into contemporary theatre performance, and A Little Bird Blown Off Course, is our first foray into this type of cross artform collaboration”

TOUR DATES

Wednesday 4 September – St Peters Hall, Daliburgh – South Uist at 7.30pm

Friday 6 September – Culloden Battlefield Centre at 7.30pm

Saturday 7 September – Arainn Shuaineirt/Sunart (strontian) at 7.30pm

Monday 9 September – Ardgay Village Hall at 7.30pm

Wednesday 11 September – Torridan Village Hall at 7.30pm

Thursday 12 September – McPhail Centre, Ullapool at 7.30pm

Friday 13 September – Strathpeffer Pavilion at 7pm

Saturday 14 September – Camus Arts Centre, Canna (NTS) at 4.15pm

Booking: all performances (aside from the South Uist performance on 4 September) can be booked via Eden Court Theatre.

Ticket Prices: £12 – £15 (performances from 6 Sept)

Box Office: 01463 234234 Online: eden-court.co.uk

Full info on Blas Festival programme: blas-festival.com

Please check the National Theatre of Scotland website for further information and booking info for the South Uist performance

Source: NTS

Amid the wonderful acoustic of the Pavilion, the SCO is joined by Hungarian conductor Gergely Madaras to present a concert of both classics and rarities.

Madaras opens the performance with a work by his fellow countryman Leo Weiner. His energetic Divertimento No 1 brings together a selection of five Hungarian folk melodies, each given its own short movement presenting a different type of dance and is one of the finest examples of Weiner’s authentic Hungarian style.

To follow, SCO Principal Flute Alison Mitchell presents Jacques Ibert’s rarely-performed Flute Concerto which was written in 1934 for the virtuoso flautist Marcel Moyse. The piece requires great skill of the soloist, particularly the solo cadenza of the last movement which was considered so technically challenging that it became one the test pieces at the Paris Conservatoire.

To bring the concert to a close, the SCO presents a well-loved classic: Beethoven’s magnificent Symphony No 3. The aptly-named ‘Eroica’ Symphony captures the Revolutionary spirit of Napoleonic Europe and demonstrates the respect the composer originally held for Bonaparte. This esteem was dashed when the Corsican proclaimed himself emperor, a move which led Beethoven to remove his original dedication of the piece.

The SCO has a long heritage of performing throughout Scotland and this summer celebrates its 35th consecutive year of touring to the Highlands and Islands, its 11th South of Scotland tour and its 7th Autumn Classics Tour visiting towns across the centre of the country.

SCO Chief Executive Roy McEwan comments:

“Leading up to the SCO’s 40th Anniversary Season, the 2013 summer touring marks some significant milestones in the Orchestra’s history and is a great time to reflect on this important aspect of our work and to reinforce the SCO’s commitment to serving the whole of the nation. The SCO is truly Scotland’s own orchestra and we are delighted to take our music-making to so many towns and villages throughout the country, as well as across the border and overseas.”

Source: SCO

Musical journeys around Scotland and Europe

The Scottish Ensemble will launch its 2013/14 season at the Music Hall in Aberdeen on Friday 7 June 2013. The choice of location is not accidental: it underlines the Ensemble’s commitment to its innovative regional touring model, the City Residencies programme. In October 2012 SE launched residencies in Inverness and Dundee, and in June 2013 Aberdeen and Perth also receive their first–ever Scottish Ensemble residencies.

Throughout the 4-day residencies SE undertakes a wide range of on- and off-platform events designed specifically around individual communities. Events have included: coaching sessions with young and amateur musicians, pop-up performances, late-night and cross-art-form events, tea dances, ceilidhs, and more. This new model is ambitious and has already delivered significant results. It has brought about a considerable increase in audience numbers, strengthened key relationships with community stakeholders and is bringing high-quality music-making to previously unreached groups.

2013/14

The Scottish Ensemble’s season takes audiences on a number of exciting musical journeys around Scotland and Europe; each programme is inspired by place and musical identity. 2013/14 includes four major tours in Scotland, four city residencies, concerts at London’s Wigmore Hall, lunchtime concerts, and chamber music performances. It also includes late-night gigs and a whole range of activities in surprising and unusual locations as part of the city residencies.

Season highlights include:

· A season of work rooted in the idea of musical place and identify.

· Performances of Martin Suckling’s full set of Musical Postcards written for the Ensemble.

· A new commission from Danish composer Christian Winther Christensen in a programme to include classic Scandinavian string repertoire alongside contemporary voices.

·

A major tour of Scotland with rising star mezzo soprano Sophie Harmsen, which will culminate in a performance at London’s Wigmore Hall.

· Concerts with Chris Stout and Catriona McKay, to include Sally Beamish’s Seavaigers, plus new material from Stout and McKay.

· A new commission to some of Scotland’s most exciting composers, each writing a variation on a traditional Scottish melody.

· The continuation of SE’s relationship with key broadcast partner BBC Radio 3.

From Russian with Love

29 September Inverness; residency 26-29 September / Dundee 3 October; residency 30 September-3 October

The season begins in September/October 2013 with SE’s second residencies in Dundee and Inverness. In addition to numerous activities outside the concert hall there is a distinctly Russian flavour to the main concerts. Music with heart, soul and tremendous emotion from Shostakovich and Tchaikovsky opens the season and lets the new audiences SE encounters throughout the residencies experience a real musical high for their first Scottish Ensemble experience.

Tchaikovsky Andante Cantabile

Shostakovich String Quartet No. 2 in A major (arr. Morton)

Shostakovich Two Pieces

Tchaikovsky Serenade for Strings in C major

Britain vs. Germany

21 October Aberdeen / 22 October Edinburgh / 23 October Glasgow / 24 October Perth / 26 October London

In October, SE is staging the classic musical football match of Britain vs. Germany. British string music has always formed an important part of the Ensemble’s work and here it is contrasted against German compositional forces in a concert of two halves. A string classic and a new work by both British and German composers, SE invites its audience to root for its team and come along to decide who wins this particular match.

Walton Sonata for Strings

Leopold Hurt Dead Reckoning

Martin Suckling Musical Postcards 1-4

Brahms String Quintet No. 2 in G Major (arr. Morton)

Nordic Nights

Concerts by Candlelight

6 December Aberdeen / 7 December Inverness / 8 December Dundee / 9 December Perth / 10 December Glasgow / 11 December Edinburgh

The Scottish Ensemble’s popular December ‘Concerts by Candlelight’ series has a Nordic twist in 2013. The programme includes a new arrangement for the Ensemble of Grieg’s string quartet and an usual journey through ‘Holberg’s Time’ with fascinating detours via exciting contemporary Scandinavian voices.

Grieg From Holberg’s Time (Holberg Suite)

with interludes from contemporary

Scandinavian composers including

Christian Winther

Christensen New Work (SE Commission)

Sibelius Andante Festivo

Grieg String Quartet No. 1

Love and War in Bohemia

21 February Inverness / 22 February Dundee / 23 February Glasgow / 24 February Edinburgh / 26 February London

Following her successful UK debut with the Scottish Ensemble in 2012, the thrilling mezzo soprano Sophie Harmsen returns to perform with the Scottish Ensemble in February 2014. She performs Dvořák’s magical love songs alongside virtuosic baroque arias in a concert centring on musical treasures from Bohemia. The concert concludes with a Suk’s beautifully romantic Serenade for Strings.

Pavel Haas Study for String Orchestra

Dvořák Love Songs (arr. Matthews)

Handel Selected Arias

Biber Battalia

Suk Serenade for Strings in E Flat Major

Mezzo soprano Sophie Harmsen

Seavaigers

Aberdeen 24 April; residency 21-24 April / 29 April Perth; residency 26-29 April /30 April Glasgow / 1 May Edinburgh

In April, the Scottish Ensemble team up with folk super duo Chris Stout and Catriona McKay for the final musical journey of the season, one SE will take to Aberdeen and Perth as part of the city residencies. Sally Beamish’s Seavaigers was composed especially for the Ensemble and these two soloists; it describes a sea journey from Dundee to Shetland. The programme also includes Bach’s Double Violin concerto in a performance that explores the work’s folk roots. There is also a composite new commission from some of Scotland’s most exciting musical voices, all writing a variation on a traditional Scottish melody.

Stout/McKay Sunstone (new material)

Sally Beamish Seavaigers

Bach Concerto for Two Violins in D Minor

Various Composers Scottish Variations (SE new commission)

Violin Jonathan Morton

Scottish harp Catriona McKay

Fiddle Chris Stout

Scottish Ensemble Artistic Director Jonathan Morton said:

Presenting exciting concerts of the highest quality throughout Scotland and in London remains our main objective, but in 2012 our activities broadened significantly in two areas. Firstly, we launched our first annual city residencies, and secondly we raised our profile internationally through two major touring projects in the USA and in China and Taiwan. In quite different ways these experiences have enriched our purpose, and encouraged us to keep striving for deeper and more meaningful engagement with our audiences.

The 2013/14 season is rooted in the idea of musical place and identify. Highlights include a genre-crossing programme with folk musicians Chris Stout and Catriona Mackay, featuring an evocative score by Sally Beamish; our Christmas programme, including new and familiar Scandinavian music transporting you to a Nordic winter landscape; and in February, a musical collaboration with a star of opera stages and concert halls, mezzo soprano Sophie Harmsen.

We’re also presenting lunchtime concerts and chamber music programmes, in addition to the broad programme of off-platform events which take place as part of our residencies.

Source: Scottish Ensemble

There are some new updates and additions to the website which we hope is of interest.

The new interview section contains some cracking pieces contributed by Ally White, Karine Polwart, Paddy Callaghan and the most recent from Anderson, McGinty, Webster, Ward & Fisher. We’ll be adding more every week so keep checking for these. Read more here http://www.hebceltfest.com/festival/interviews

An overview of the complete Hebcelt programme can be viewed at http://www.hebceltfest.com/festival/glance.

Stage splits / timings are now available from http://www.hebceltfest.com/festival/times.

And finally important information about our ongoing efforts at greening the festival and a fantastic new project that we hope you all help us out with on the day. We are the only festival in Scotland to be hosting these Recycle & Reward machines http://www.hebceltfest.com/backstage/greening, your assistance in helping us recycle as much as we can will be rewarded by some fantastic prizes.

Enough reading for one day.

We will be open on Church Street on Saturdays, 15th and 22nd June, and then open fulltime from Monday, 24th June. Please come in and collect your tickets if you stay locally or check out our merchandise. We aim to have this available online shortly.

You can also book online from http://www.hebceltfest.com/booking or by calling us on 01851 621234.

And finally keep up with us on Facebook and / or Twitter for all the latest news in the run up to the event.

For all local area information remember to check out http://www.visitouterhebrides.co.uk

Source: Hebridean Celtic Festival

Chloe is already well-known locally for her distinctive vocal style and her catchy tunes. Her two most well-kent songs are Fish Out Of Water and Vitamin D Deficiency, both regularly played on SIBC.

Paul Brady is one of Ireland’s most highly regarded and successful artists. He incorporates folk, rock, blues, traditional Irish, and classic pop styles into his song writing. Often described as “a musicians’ musician,” his songs have been covered by a huge array of major artists including Tina Turner, Cher, Joe Cocker, and Carlos Santana.

At these two concerts he will perform sets including songs from his extensive 40 year catalogue, including hits from his albums Hard Station, True For You, Back To The Centre, Primitive Dance, Trick Or Treat, Spirits Colliding, and more.

Shetland Arts’ Marketing Officer, Lisa Ward, said: “Chloe is fast establishing herself as a gifted singer songwriter of limitless potential. She will make a wonderful support act for Paul Brady.”

Tickets for both concerts are available now via Shetland Box Office in Mareel & Islesburgh, over the phone on 01595 745 555, or online at www.mareel.org and www.shetlandboxoffice.org

Source: Shetland Arts

The concert, on 15th June, will be in the Drawing Room at Dunrobin Castle. Appropriately, the performers are The Sutherland Duo, with Harriet Mackenzie (violin), and Christina Lawrie (piano).

With their strong ancestral links to Sutherland, the Duo, winners of theWinners of Scotland Award 2010 – 2012, are an eclectic and energetic duo. Their repertoire spans more than 300 years of western classical music, ranging from the elegance of the French Baroque, the searing emotional intensity of Brahms, and the wild gypsy rhythms of Sarasate, to the exciting music of our times.

Christina and Harriet are both Park Lane Group Young Artists and have both performed at prestigious venues such as the Wigmore Hall, Purcell Room, St Martin in the Fields and Cadogan Hall, and have given live broadcasts on BBC Radio 3 and Classic FM. They were also invited to perform in the historic Bath Pump Room for its 300th Anniversary celebration concert.

Thanks to the EMS Chamber Music Residency, the Sutherland Duo have toured all over Scotland. At Dunrobin they will play music by Grieg and Prokofiev.

The concert begins at 7:30pm, with tickets priced at £15 (£12 concessions). Wine and soft drinks will be offered. Further details and ticket reservations: MF@northhighlandconnections.org Phone: 0752 107 7053

Source: NHC

Shinty’s Heroes Musical Director, Gary Innes (himself a hero) and wordsmith, Hugh Dan MacLennan (who always wanted to be a hero), will inform, entertain and surprise at the Nevis Centre, Fort William on Friday , September 13. Amongst the stellar list of guests are Skye’s Donnie Munro, Duncan Chisholm from Cannich, Duncan MacGillivray from Easter Ross, Allan Henderson, Iain MacFarlane and the one and only Fergie MacDonald – all from various parts of Lochaber.

The first half of the programme will revolve round the impact of the First World War on shinty- playing areas. Hugh Dan will provide an audio-visual display detailing some of the exploits of Highland Heroes at battles such as Festubert in 1915 through a combination of war-time and sporting images, many of which have been unseen before.

He said: “The starting point of our journey is really the unique success of the Lovat and Beauly teams who allegedly combined to win the Camanachd Cup in 1913. We’ll celebrate that remarkable event and then follow a couple of the Beauly players who went to War and left us a remarkable pipe tune which we will play on the evening. There are extraordinary tales to tell and on the eve of shinty’s greatest day out, it’s singularly appropriate that we mark the shinty player’s and the shinty community’s contribution to the Great War. And the impact that had on the game.”

Musical Maestro Gary Innes will mastermind the musical aspects of the event, and is confident the success of “Lochaber Gold” two years ago will be repeated. “I cannot think of a better way to launch Shinty’s Heroes than be here at the Commando Memorial in my home village of Spean Bridge. I am delighted that so many top musicans from the shinty-playing areas, each with a connection to shinty teams, will be joining us. It promises to be a remarkable evening and we are sure it will sell out as it will be the start of a perfect weekend for shinty fans throughout Scotland.”

Hugh Dan and Gary were joined for the launch of Shinty’s Heroes at the Commando Memorial by the one and only Fergie MacDonald, formerly a trainer of Fort William shinty club and most recently occupied producing his latest musical accomplishment, the song “The Shinty Referee” recently released as a single.

All three assisted Camanachd Association President Archie Robertson make the draw for the quarter finals of the Scottish Hydro Camananchd Cup. Archie added: “The Camanachd Association is delighted to again partner with the Blas Festival. It is a great event which celebrates many aspects of Highland culture and it seems very appropriate that the Scottish Hydro Camanachd Cup Final should be part of it. The content and array of performers included in Hugh Dan and Gary’s show, “Shinty’s Heroes”, leaves me in no doubt that it will be an excellent evening and a perfect start to the cup final weekend as those who paid the ultimate sacrifice during the Great War are remembered.”

Shinty’s Heroes will take place at the Nevis Centre, Fort William on Friday, September 13, 2013 at 7.30pm.

The formal launch of the Blas 2013 Festival Programme will take place at Eden Court Theatre Inverness on Thursday, June 13.

Gaelic version

Curaidhean na Camanachd le urram aig Blas 2013

Thèid an ceangal eadar saoghal na camanachd agus na thachair anns a’ Chogadh Mhòr a chomharrachadh aig cuirm shònraichte mar phàirt de dh’Fhèis Blas 2013. Air an oidhche mas tèid cuairt dheireannach Cupa na Camanachd a chluich anns a’ Ghearasadan am bliadhna (Dihaoine 13 Sultain) thèid na thachair a chomharrachadh tro chuirm le dealbhan, ceòl agus sgeulachdan. Chaill mòran a bha rio camanachd am beatha anns a’ Chiad Chogadh agus bha buaidh aig na thachair air grunn choimhearsnachdan Gàidhealach. Bidh Curaidhean na Camanachd a’ coimhead air sin agus làithean mòra eile anns na cuairtean deireannach tro eachdraidh faisg air 120 bliadhna na farpais.

Seo a’ chiad chuirm de Bhlas 2013 a th’air fhoillseachadh, le Stiùiriche a’ chiùil Gary Innes agus fear-an-taighe Ùisdean MacIllInnein a’ lìbhrigeadh oidhche a bhios air leth. A-measg na bhios air an àrd-ùrlar còmhla riutha bidh sàr luchd-ciùil agus seinneadairean, uile le ceangal ri sgìrean no sgiobaidhean camanachd, leithid Donaidh Rothach bhon Eilean Sgitheanach, Dunnchadh Siosal bho Channich, Dunnchadh MacGilleBhrath, am Pìobaire bho thaobh sear Rois, Ailean MacEanruig, Iain MacFàrlain agus cò eile ach Fergie Dòmhnallach, uile a’ riochdachadh diofar cheàrnaidhean de Lochabar.

Thèid a’ chiad earrann dhen oidhche a chur seachad a’ sealltainn mar a thug an Cogadh Mòr buaidh air sgìrean agus ginealach gan sgrios, leithid ann am boglaich na Frainnge. Thèid dealbhan (gu leòr nach fhacas leis a’ mhòr-shluagh roimhe seo), a shealltainn a nì ceangal eadar na thachair ann an leithid Blàr Festubert ann an 1915 agus mar a chaidh uibhir de bhalaich òga an Eilein Sgitheanaich a mharbhadh an sin agus nach do thìll.

Thuirt Uisdean: “Tha sinn a’ dol a thòiseachadh le mar a thachair 100 bliadhna air ais nuair thàinig sgiobaidhean Lòbhat agus a’ Mhanachain còmhla agus bhuinnig iad an cupa ann an 1913. Bha feadhainn san sgioba sin nach do thill ach a dh’fhàg pìobaireachd àraid againn a’ cuimhneachadh air a’ ghèam. Tha iomadach sgeulachd ri h-innse, duilich is àmhghaireach gu leòr dhiù, ach ‘s math an cur air beulaibh dhaoine agus iad a’ cruinneachadh dhan Ghearasdan an ath latha son Là Mòr na Camanachd. Cha bu chùir do dhuine na thachair a dhiochuimhneachadh.”

Tha Gary Innes làn chinnteach gun tèid cho math leis an oidhche sa chaidh le cuirm eile a chaidh a chumail ann an Ionad Neibheis mar phàirt de Bhlas 2011 – “Òr Lochabair”. Thuirt e: “Cha b’urrainn dhuinn àite nas iomchaidh a thaghadh airson na cuirme fhoillseachadh an seo aig Carragh-chuimhne Dhrochaid an Aonachainn anns a’ bhaile far an do thogadh mi fhèin. Tha mi air leth toilichte gu bheil uibhir de shàr luchd-ciùil air aontachadh tighinn chun na cuirme, uile le ceangal fa-leth ri sgirean camanachd. ‘S e oidhche shònraichte a bhios ann le spòrs is fealla-dha a-measg a h-uile càil eile, agus tha mi cinnteach gum falbh na tiocaidean leis a’ ghaoith agus daoine gu bhith dol chun ghèaim mhòir an ath latha.”

Còmhla ri Gary agus Ùisdean a’ foillseachadh Curaidhean na Camanachd bha Fergie Dòmhnallach a bhios e fhèin a’ gabhail an àrd-ùrlair. Bha iad le chèile a’ cuideachadh ann a bhith a’ tarraing an ath chuairt de chupa na Camanachd aig a’ Charragh Chuimhne.

Thuirt Ceann-Suidhe Chomann na Camanachd Eàirdsidh Robasdan: “Tha sinn air leth toilichte a bhith ag obair còmhla ri Fèisean nan Gàidheal a’ cur air adhart Blas 2013. Tha e air leth freagarrach gun rachadh cuirm mar seo a chumail an co-cheangal ri là mòr na camanachd. Tha an luchd-ciùil agus an dreach a chuireas Ùisdean agus Gary air an oidhche air leth tarraingeach agus tha mi deimhinne gun tèid na gnothaichean uabhasach a thachair sa Chogadh a chomharrachadh dhan h-uile duine a bhios a’ cruinneachadh dhan Ghearasdan.”

Bidh Curaidh na Camanachd ann an Ionad Neibheis anns a’ Ghearsadan, oidhche h-Aoine, Sultain 13, aig 7.30 feasgar. Thèid am program slàn airson Fèis Blas 2013 fhoillseachadh ann an Inbirnis air Diardaoin, 13 Ògmhios.

Source: Fèisean nan Gàidheal

Cromarty Stables, 23 June 2013, 4.00pm.

Bob Pegg, Christina Stewart and Bill Taylor present Tales and Music from Highland Perthshire at the Cromarty Stables, on Sunday afternoon 23rd June 2013.

The programme combines Perthshire stories with songs in Gaelic and Scots/English, and tunes played on the ancient wire-strung clarsach. The production centres around stories collected by Lady Evelyn Stewart Murray (1868-1940) of Blair Castle, which were taken from local informants and preserved in twelve manuscript volumes using their unique dialect and usage of native Perthshire Gaelic. Bob, Christina and Bill will present Lady Evelyn’s tales as they might have been heard at a traditional ceilidh, with a mix of stories (re-told in English), songs and music.

Tickets cost £10, £8 and £3 – suitable for adults and older children.

The show has been very well received at the Pitlochry Book Festival, and the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh. We are looking forward to performing for a more northerly audience.

Source: Bob Pegg

Saturday 15th June 2013

Heavily influenced by guitar virtuosos such as James Taylor, Bert Jansch and John Renbourn, Jim Michie has long been much sought after as a session musician in concert and recording studio.

Showcasing his distinctive guitar style and vocals with a repertoire that looks back over forty years of songs and tunes, the concert will also feature many who have collaborated with Jim over the years.

Featuring:

Jim Michie (guitars, vocals)

Jim Hunter (guitars, vocals)

Chris Pritchard (guitars, vocals)

Kaela Rowan (vocals)

Graham Flett (bass, keyboard)

Brian Hepburn (vocals)

Jamie Ash (drums)

Jim Gaitens

Bill Gillespie

With more guests to be announced!

Start time 8:00pm, tickets £10 (under 18s £8)

Source: Glenuig Hall

Chairing the independent panel of judges, Glasgow Academic, John Williamson, said: “Although there was a strong longlist including some hugely commercially successful albums, the ten chosen for the short list are those that best reflect the range of music made by Scottish artists in 2012. It includes debut albums and ones by people who have been making music for thirty years; solo albums and collaborative projects; genres from folk music to hip-hop. It is perhaps a measure of the collective quality that it is hard to see an obvious winner from the ten.”

He added: “While on the surface they may not have much in common beyond their Scottish connections, it strikes me that each of these albums was coherently and lovingly made by artists with a clear vision of what they were trying to do. The list is merely a reflection of who, in the judges’ opinion, executed that vision best. Across each of the albums there are great songs, voices and instrumental performances. If the award can get some of these incredible records more widely heard – not only in Scotland, but around the world, then it will have done its job.”

The SAY Award Shortlist is: (in alphabetical order)

Admiral Fallow Tree Bursts In Snow

Django Django Django Django

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

Karine Polwart Traces

Lau Race The Loser

Meursault Something For The Weakened

Paul Buchanan Mid Air

RM Hubbert Thirteen Lost & Found

Stanley Odd Reject

The Twilight Sad No One Can Ever Know (Public Vote winner)

The judging panel included: 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) and Sue Wilson (Journalist).

The 24-hour voting window on Monday saw The Twilight Sad being voted on to the shortlist by the Public. James Alexander Graham said: “Thank you very much to everyone who voted for No One Can Ever Know in the public vote. Our third record saw us develop our sound in different ways than before. We always try to push our music forward. From the outside looking in that can be seen to be a risk and there’s a chance that people that like your band might not move forward with you, but not too us. If we aren’t pushing ourselves, we aren’t doing our job right.”

He added: “We’ve been very lucky that people have embraced the Album, so for this record to be included in the shortlist for The SAY Award is very humbling and we’re extremely proud to have been included. 2012 was a great year for Scottish music so for No One Can Ever Know to be seen as one of the 10 best records our country produced is amazing!”

Caroline Parkinson, Director of Creative Development, Creative Scotland said:

“Congratulations to the ten shortlisted acts of the SAY Award. It’s great to see Scotland’s talented musicians being recognised and rewarded for their hard work and their great albums. We wish them all the best for the 20 June”.

Suzy Clark, Brand Manager, Dewar’s: “This is a great day for Scottish music: the diversity of the shortlist really does showcase the best of Scottish talent, something we at Dewar’s are very proud to be part of.”

Peter Leathem, CEO, PPL: “PPL would like to congratulate the ten acts that have been shortlisted. These are a fantastic and eclectic mix which truly reflect the diversity of Scotland’s music scene. We are looking forward to what will undoubtedly be a fun filled and exciting night on the 20th June.

Ian Manson, Chief Executive, Clyde Gateway: “This tremendous shortlist with its mix of new and long-established artists is further evidence that the music industry in Scotland is especially rich in talent right now. I’m looking forward to welcoming everyone next month to what will undoubtedly be yet another memorable, special and historic occasion here in Glasgow’s East End.”

Source: SAY Award

DF Concerts & Events in association with Shetland Arts presents Tim Burgess live at Mareel on Friday 27 September.

Tim is touring his new album ‘Oh No I Love You’, which will be released on September 2, around the UK with his five-piece band, including The Charlatans guitarist Mark Collins.

The Charlatans front-man, who recently published his autobiography Telling Stories, worked with Lambchop’s Kurt Wagner on the record.

Speaking of the making of ‘Oh No I Love You’, Tim said: “The root of this album goes right back to a Kurt Wagner show in Manchester…I carried Kurt’s guitar to the car for him. I took the chance to ask him if he would ever consider writing a song with me. He said, ‘Sure Tim, you write the music and I’ll write the words’. That one song turned into an album and almost ten year’s after we first talked about it, the album is read.y”

Recorded in Nashville with producer Mark Nevers, it features members of Lambchop, Clem Snide, and My Morning Jacket. Chris Scruggs, grandson of the legendary banjo player Earl Scruggs played on the album, as well as experimentalist R Stevie Moore. Further contributions came from Factory Floor’s Gabe Gurnsey and Nik Colk Void.

Tickets go on sale this Friday (31 May) at 9am via Shetland Box Office in Mareel & Islesburgh, over the phone on 01595 745 555, or online at www.shetlandboxoffice.org and www.mareel.org. Tickets will also be available via Ticketmaster. For more information, please see www.gigsinscotland.com

Source: Shetland Arts

The Potting Shed Stage www.tartanheartfringe.co.uk

A festival within a festival, relaxed and informal, a place where the artist have fun, rootsy and impromptu, to celebrate the 10 Belladrum we welcome back some friends and introduce you to even more.

Well, I heard the news, there’s good rockin’ tonight.

Two American Stars return to Belladrum for Potting Shed Stage appearance, putting the carni in a carnival of Roots Music talent from around the globe (and Conon Bridge)

Mary Jean Lewes (The Killers Niece) played the very first Belladrum with her mother and sister (The Lewis Three) & our mutual friend Phil Lee returns on his “Fall and Further Decline of The Mighty King Of Love” European Tour”.

In true Potting Shed fashion watch out for one off impromptu Rock n Roll fireworks when they meet at Belladrum.

Let’s rock, rock, rock, rock, We’re gonna rock all our blues away!!! The Potting Shed Stage Belladrum 2013.

Thursday Aug 1 8pm 11pm

The Coffee Shop Sessions Blues Revue with The Blues Experience & Red Blues

The now traditional Blues Jam lead by Dingwall Greenhouse Coffee Shop Sessions regulars from Conon Bridge Emma Mitchell & Matt Sillars mew Blues Band The Blues Experience & special guests Red Blues from The Spey Valley Delta

https://www.facebook.com/groups/131214630251847/

Friday Aug 2

Scott and Farquhar MacDonald 12.00 12.30 http://www.scott-macdonald.co.uk/

Not relations except in music, Scott Macdonald is one of Scotland busiest songwriter entertainers, fiddler Farquhar is a legend on Skye their radio hit album Hope Street reflects Scott and Farquhar’s well travelled life gigging from The Islands to The City.

Impromptu organised on the day 12.30

The Federal 12.40 1.10 https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Federals/184467628375789

Ye Ha Math Tha Highland Hillbillies Bluegrass, Blues & Country

Impromptu organised on the day 1.10

Gypsy Dave Smith 1.30 2.10 http://www.reverbnation.com/gypsydavesmith

Impeccable Slide Blues from Potting Shed Stage favourite and guitarist in residence

Impromptu organised on the day 2.10

John Duffy and The Highland Hot Club 2.20 3.00 https://www.facebook.com/pages/John-Duffy/156587891046457

Gypsy Jazz Fusion. Ayrshire’s John Duffy with our own Highland Hot Club for a Cafe Orchestra Fusion

Impromptu organised on the day 3.00

Jimmy The Hat & the Portmaheekans

3.20 3.50

A cast of Portmaheekans gather to wish Highland Country Legend Jimmy a happy 50th birthday (on 10 years since the last Catalyst Festival in the Port, the inspiration behind the Potting Shed Stage)

Impromptu organised on the day 3.50

Davy & The Hosebeast

4.00 4.40

www.davycowan.com

Celtic Rocker Davy Cowan, explores his punk roots.

Impromptu organised on the day 4.40

Diddums

5.00 5.40

https://www.facebook.com/pages/DIDDUMS/328156197800

Diddums are Punk Rockers, Diddums are Punk Rockers, Diddums are Punk Rockers NOW!!

Impromptu organised on the day 15.40

Des Horsfall & Tim O’Connor

6.00 6.40

www.kuschtyrye.net http://www.timoconnor.co.uk

Ronnie Lane never did a show with John Lennon, this is as close as you’ll get.

Impromptu organised on the day 6.40

Mary Jean Lewis

7.00 7.40

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mary-Jean-Lewis-and-The-Low-Men/281499475215145

Mary Jean (niece of Rock n Roll legend Jerry Lee Lewis) played the first Belladrum with her Mother and sister as The Lewis Three, we are delighted to welcome her back, there will be good rocking tonight.

The Galipaygos

8.00 8.40

http://thegalipaygos.com/

If a band sums up the Potting Shed Stage thing it would be The Galipaygoes rootsy and right good fun, welcome home guys.

The Whiskys

9.00 9.40

http://thewhiskys.org/

The Whisky River Band are now stripped back to the Whiskys, with a stripped back sound and a jug full of new songs.

The Ballahulish Hellhounds

10.00 10.45

Ballahulish shit kicking Bluegrass. Perennial favourites and our Friday Night Headline act.

Saturday

Fash Stewart & The Great & The Good

12.00 12.20

www.fashstewart.co.uk

Our Compere beyond compare, with well! – with who knows who but they will be The Great and The Good.

Impromptu organised on the day 12.20

Andrea Soler

12.30 12.50

http://andreasoler.com

Gentle tropical jazz infused, Andrea Soler is an award winning Australian singer songwriter with compelling vocals and insightful lyrics.

Impromptu organised on the day 12.50

Little Fire

1.00 1.20

http://littlefiremusic.com/

Inspired by the warm tone of the voice of Ted Hawkins, the passionate delivery of Ray LaMontagne and the eclectic approach to song writing so ably displayed by John Martyn.

Impromptu organised on the day 1.20

Dumb Instrument

1.50 2.30

http://dumbinstrument.com

If Ivor Cutler and Michael Marra sat down for a cup of tea together they might have dreamt up Dumb Instrument.

Impromptu organised on the day 2.30

The Jeff Jolly Band

2.50 3.30

http://www.jeffjolly.net/

San Francisco Rocking Blues band reminiscent of George Thorougood & Stevie Ray Vaughan.

Impromptu organised on the day 3.30

Jamie Marshal

3.45 – 4.10

https://www.facebook.com/jamie.marshall.908?fref=ts

Itinerant protest singer with a strong message.

Impromptu organised on the day 4.10

Mark Dean & The Dogies

4.30 – 5.00

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mark-Dean-Ellen/291582080943456

They do all kinds of music – Country & Western!

Impromptu organised on the day 5.00

Phil Lee

5.15 to 6.00

www.phillee1.com

Bob Dylan meets Jimmy Durante – The Mighty King Of Love on tour to promote his hit album (3 months in The Euro Americana Chart) The Fall and Further Decline of The Mighty King Of Love, and this year stars in a movie as a down at heals country star living out of a suit case (No type casting there then)

Impromptu organised on the day 6.00

The Hamish Roberts Band

6.20 .7.00

Well travelled Inverness Guitar Wiz, brings the band of his choice to Belladrum.

https://www.facebook.com/hamish.roberts1

Impromptu organised on the day 7.00

Baby Isaac

7.20 – 8.00

http://www.babyisaacblues.com/

Swing Rhythm & Blues Jazz

Authenticity was a key factor in developing the Baby Isaac sound – it is all about the feel, and the natural, energetic performances.

The David Latto Band

8.15 8.40

http://www.thedavidlattoband.com

Country harmony from the home of Country Music Kirkcaldy, Imagine The Everly Brothers when they were young and handsome and talking to each other.

Roots and Cheroots The Vieille Alliance

9.00 – 9.20

www.theslimpanatellas.co.uk

When Cigar Box Don and Rob Ellen went to the French BSA Cigar Box Guitar Festival and said, “you must come and visit us some time”, they never dreamed they would. Some Gaelic home grown hand rolled blues fusion. Viva La France, Viva Écosse.

Earls Of Caithness

10.00 – 11.00

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Earls-Of-Caithness/322002967909785

Soul Funk Fusion from The Flow Country featuring Conon Bridge Chanteuse Emma Mitchell.

www.medicinemusic.co.uk

Source: Medicine Music

Three stages of entertainment, enough Thistly Cross cider and Williams Brothers beer to fuel even the most epic of expeditions, delicious food including this year’s pop-up restaurant from the incredible Pamela Brunton, head chef at The Painting School and a whole host of other fantastical distractions – most notably, YOU!

Saturday tickets have already SOLD OUT!

So don’t dilly-dally or the ride will leave without you…

Full details at http://www.insiderfestival.com

The Insider >>> Edinburgh

Official Warm Up at The Voodoo Rooms

Tuesday 28 May 2013

8pm-1am

Tickets £12

With just under a month to go until The Insider, we thought it only proper to venture out of our cosy confines of Inshriach and bring a top-drawer delegation to do our bit for international relations.

As well as our wonderful hosts, Adam Holmes and the Embers, the enchanting Siobhan Wilson and our Very Special award-winning guests there’s all sorts of other nonsense to look forward to!

The party will be carrying on til 1am with -YET ANOTHER- Special Guest kicking off the dancefloor and some Insider DJ favourites taking you Around The World in… a bunch of tunes.

Source: Insider Festival

On Tuesday 4th June at 1.00pm, the outstanding young fiddler and violinist, Graham Mackenzie from Culloden returns home from completing his fourth year at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester to perform a selection of twenty-nine tunes in a mix of Scots traditional and light classical styles accompanied by his mother and local music teacher Alison Mackenzie at the piano.

Graham’s programme will feature traditional tunes from Orkney and Shetland, from Ireland and Cape Breton, as well as numbers written by Phil Cunningham, Fritz Kreisler, Nigel Hess and some of Graham’s own compositions. He will end with a tribute to the great Scott Skinner.

In recent years Graham has been earning plaudits and awards in many areas. He has been a finalist in both the BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician of the Year and the BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Awards; he has won the Scottish Fiddle Championships at both junior and senior level, won the Oban Invitational Fiddle Masters Competition and was runner-up in the prestigious Glenfiddich Fiddle Championships.

The following week, on Wednesday 12th June at 1.00pm At One With Music is delighted to welcome back the excellent Sutherland Duo of violinist Harriet Mackenzie and pianist Christina Lawrie. Both have endeared themselves to the Inverness audience on their past visits, not only together but also in a solo recital by Christina and by Harriet in her world music trio Kosmos.

Harriet and Christina have chosen two beautiful works to play at this concert; the Violin Sonata No 3 in C minor by Edvard Grieg and Tchaikovsky’s Souvenir d’un lieu cher (Memories of a much loved place), which is taken to mean Brailovo, the country estate of his benefactress Nadezhda von Meck. The third movement “Melodie” has developed an existence of its own.

For both concerts the Town House doors will be opened at 12.30pm. Admission costs £5 for Adults and £1 for Children. The concerts will last approximately 55 minutes.

Source: James Munro

The quartet, which was made up of University of the Highlands and Islands’ students, performed a selection of traditional Scottish and Gaelic music as well as their own compositions. Amy is a keen fiddler and Jamie specialises in whistles as well as fiddle.

The musical performance was part of a University of the Highlands and Islands and University of the Highlands and Islands Development Trust event to thank existing donors and supporters and connect with other key individuals and businesses with strong links to the Highlands. Over 60 guests attended the event which was hosted by HRH The Princess Royal. HRH was installed as the first chancellor of the university in June 2012.

Amy and Jamie travelled to Buckingham Palace from Lews Castle College UHI’s Benbecula campus on Uist where they study the university’s HNC in music. Delivered by tutors with backgrounds in the music industry, the applied music course encourages participants to gain as much live performance experience as possible. The students have already played for the BBC TV programme Landward, Swiss Radio and the Celtic Connections music festival in Glasgow this year.

Speaking about the event Amy MacAulay said: “It was such an honour to be chosen to represent the university at an event in Buckingham Palace. The music was a success and a lot of people came to talk to us after the event to give thanks. It was a once in a lifetime experience I definitely won’t forget.”

Anna-Wendy Stevenson, programme leader for the applied music degree, said: “Our students were very excited to be representing the university at this important event and they practiced hard. They showcased their talents as well as the Gaelic song and traditional music of the Highland and Islands region. The performance highlighted the success of the university’s innovative music courses like our applied music degree which is available all over Scotland.”

Nuala Boyle, head of development at the university, said: “The event was a fantastic opportunity to showcase our talented students as well as illustrate the diversity of our university offering.”

To find out more about the University of the Highlands and Islands music courses visit www.uhi.ac.uk or call the course information line on 0845 272 3600.

You can read about the University of the Highlands and Islands Development Trust at www.development.uhi.ac.uk

Source: UHI

Sat 25 May at An Tobar

8.30pm £10/£8 Call us to book 01688 302211

It’s always a special event when A. J. and Nuala Kennedy, who normally tour separately, have the opportunity to share the stage. Inventive and eclectic, Irish folk singer, composer and musician Nuala Kennedy, is a brand name in her adopted homeland of Scotland. A. J. is known for his attention to detail in his poetic lyrics, and for his powerful and distinctive singing voice. Together, the strengths of each meld to create a performace that is at once mesmerising and exhilarating.

The Stu Brown Sextet – The Music Of Raymond Scott 

Monday 27 May at Druimfin

Tuesday 28 May at Bunessan Hall

8pm £9/£6 call to book 01688 302828

The Stu Brown Sextet was formed in 2008 to celebrate 100 years since the birth of the little known band leader, composer and inventor, Raymond Scott, whose wacky, hyper-animated, eyeball-popping “cartoon jazz” is most widely recognisable for its use in the Looney Tunes cartoons from the 1940s onwards. Includes a short film about Raymond Scott. “Wittily daft, exotic and swinging…”

Mojo Magazine *****

Platero

Wednesday 29 May at Druimfin

8pm £9/£6 call us to book 01688 302828

A year in the sunshine of Southern Spain with a poet and his little silver donkey, Platero. Spain’s Nobel Prize-winning Juan Ramon Jimenez lived in Moguer, a small town overlooking fields of vines and pomegranates. His best-loved collection of stories paints an affectionate picture of his hometown where you meet the characters and experience lives in the timeless Andalusian landscape. Top-selling classical guitarist Craig Ogden performs live. Scotsman**** Fringe Guru**** The Stage****

Broadway Baby**** (a1+)

Tremble – Tidal Dance

Friday 31 May at Druimfin

7.30pm £4 call us to book 01688 302828

An exploration of life’s superstitions through contemporary dance, performed by Mull Theatre’s own Tidal Dance Company. Featuring members of

Mull Youth Theatre.

Matthew Barley – Around Britten

Sat 1 June at An Tobar

8.30pm £10/£8 call us to book 01688 302211

Around Britten is an extensive tour of events by Matthew Barley that pays homage to Benjamin Britten’s creativity and innovation, taking his music to a kaleidoscope of venues far and wide around the UK — not just in concert halls — to celebrate Britten’s centenary and to show that his music really is for everyone. At An Tobar on 1st June…

Source: An Tobar

“My intention is to create a programme that pays homage to Britten’s creativity and innovation.” says Matthew Barley. Cello playing is at the centre of Matthew Barley’s career, while his musical world has virtually no geographical, social or stylistic boundaries. Music Director of BBC2 TV’s Classical Star programme, Matthew Barley is passionate about education, improvisation, multi-arts projects, new music, and pioneering community programmes. He is a world-renowned cellist, who has performed in over 50 countries in many of the world’s great concert halls with orchestras including BBC Philharmonic, Vienna Radio Sympony, Czech Philharmonic, Melbourne and New Zealand Symphonies and the Kremerata Baltica.

Matthew Barley’s collaborations include Matthias Goerne, the Labeque Sisters, Viviane Hagner, Martin Frost, Thomas Larcher, Kit Armstrong, Amjad Ali Khan, Julian Joseph, Talvin Singh, Kathryn Tickell, Nitin Sawhney, and Deep Purple’s Jon Lord, and his new music group, Between The Notes, has undertaken over 60 creative projects with young musicians and orchestral players around the world.

The following five pieces form the basis of the recital programme, though there will be variations in certain venues.

A CYCLE OF THE SOUL

PRE-EXISTENCE : DAI FUJIKURA The Spirit of Beings

The concept of this piece is Pre-existence — the idea that the spirit of a newborn child chooses its parents before conception. The four movements in the piece are: Aria, Floating, Awakening and Unending and the electronic parts play on shuffle mode, so there are 24 different permutations for the piece that are not determined until the minute the piece begins on stage.

LIFE: J. S. BACH Suite No. 5 in C minor

Bach’s music has been described as ‘Supremely LIFE-affirming’. Bach’s fifth suite for solo cello is in the dramatic, velvety key of C minor, and to heighten the colour of this key, Bach requests that the top string be tuned down to a G. This re-tuning loosens the tension of the strings on the bridge, darkening the sound of the cello, and enabling wonderful three- and four-note chords in C minor to be played with ease.

DEATH: BENJAMIN BRITTEN Third Suite for Cello

Britten’s Third Suite for Cello is based on the Kontakion, the Hymn for the Dead. Written only a few years before the composer’s death, mortality was much on his mind at the time of composition — the Kontakion develops at the close of the work with a peaceful radiance that gives way to a final silence.

AFTERLIFE: JAN BANG Noticing Things

Jan Bang created all these sounds by remixing the electronic files from Dai Fujikura’s piece, The Spirit of Beings. The cello part is completely improvised, and the movements are entitled Replica, Flooded Corridors and Implanted Memories.

REINCARNATION: JAMES MACMILLAN And He Rose

And He Rose by James MacMillan is a response to half-remembered chants associated with Easter. The mood is joyful and energetic, like a sustained, physically exuberant alleluia.

As part of the Around Britten tour, production company Yeast Culture was invited to create a series of visuals to accompany Britten’s Third Suite for Cello which will be projected on screen at selected recital venues.

For more information and to book tickets (£10/£8 and £3 for children under 16) please cantact

Cromarty Arts Trust on 01381 600354 or email info@cromartyartstrust.org.uk

See here for full tour dates

Source: Cromarty Arts Trust

Sounding Dunadd – ‘Kilmartin to Dunadd’ Walk

Join Patsy Dyer and Bob Pegg, for a journey from the prehistoric stones of Kilmartin Glen via the Moine Mhor SNH Nature Reserve to the Dal Riadic fortress of Dunadd; Stories and music inspired by the landscape and history of the glen will be enjoyed along the way.

After the Dunadd session, a mini bus will take walkers back to Kilmartin Museum for light refreshments. A charge of £4.00 will be made for refreshments.

Please bring a packed lunch, wear suitable footwear and of course, always be prepared for the possibility of rain.

Places are limited to 30 so booking is essential!

Please call 01546 510278 or email admin@kilmartin.org for more details and to book your place. Full details of this event can be found on our website – www.kilmartin.org

These events are funded by Museums and Galleries Scotland and Creative Scotland as part of the Year of Natural Scotland.

Friday 7th June 2013 – 6.45pm to 8.40pm

Sounding Dunadd – Travellers

The second event in our Sounding Dunadd programme of 2013 – ‘Travellers’ will be held in Kilmichael Glassary Church on the evening of Friday June 7th – 6.45pm until 8.40pm with a half hour interval for refreshments. The event will feature international storyteller and musician Bob Pegg; the multi award winning Gaelic singer – Joy Dunlop; specialist Harp performer Bill Taylor and contributions by Kilmichael Primary School. There will be a performance by the specially formed community choir and on display will be the incredible art work designed by Jae Ferguson and created by the children of Kilmichael Primary School. An evening not to be missed!

Contact admin@kilmartin.org or call 01546 510278 for more details. Full details of this event can be found on our website – www.kilmartin.org

These events are funded by Museums and Galleries Scotland and Creative Scotland as part of the Year of Natural Scotland.

Source: Bob Pegg

Manus Carey, currently Head of Creative Programming at Manchester Camerata, joins the Orchestra as Executive Producer, and takes up his role on 1 August. For nearly six years Manus has been in the central strategic and developmental role with Manchester Camerata, during which time he has led on numerous changes in the organisation, and developed a range of new initiatives and strategies. As Executive Producer, Manus will be responsible for working with the Chief Executive and the Music Director to realise the vision for the development of the RSNO’s artistic and creative partnerships and programmes and to develop its artistic policy.

As a creative arts professional with experience in classical music, artist management and broadcasting, Amy Glover joins from the BBC, appointed as Artistic Planning Manager, and will be in post from 17 June. Amy will report to the Executive Producer and will research and advise on the programming of repertoire, liaising and contracting with artists and their agents, and planning rehearsal, concert and activity schedules in partnership with the Presentation and Operations Department.

Nick Lander, RSNO Concerts and Tours Manager since March 2008, is promoted to the new position of Director of Presentation and Operations, and will be responsible for the operation of the Orchestra’s new home, and overall design, management, coordination and delivery of all Orchestra and ensemble concerts, tours, recordings and broadcasts.

The posts are new and integral to the organisation’s administrational management in preparation of its move to a purpose-built facility in Glasgow’s city centre and the achievement of its strategic goals to 2020 and beyond.

New RSNO Executive Producer Manus Carey: “I am looking forward to working closely with this fantastic orchestra and Music Director Peter Oundjian. Glasgow is such a vibrant city in which to be based and I am excited about contributing to the Orchestra’s artistic development within the city as well as throughout Scotland and further afield.”

New RSNO Artistic Planning Manager Amy Glover: “I am delighted to be joining the RSNO at the start of such an exciting new Season. It’s been an absolute pleasure building a relationship with the Orchestra during my time at the BBC and I’m looking forward to becoming part of the RSNO team as the Orchestra reaches out to new audiences with its imaginative programming.”

RSNO Chief Executive Michael Elliott: “We are fortunate in attracting such proven talent as Manus and Amy to the RSNO. Both have excellent academic, performance and professional qualifications and experience in music, and both have built an exceptional creative and management reputation. Together with Nick’s appointment, their experience will prove invaluable to the organisation going forward, as we prepare to move into our new home and extend our reach, creative partnerships, artistic ambitions, and engagement with Scotland’s audiences and communities.”

Source: RSNO

Finlay Allison, leading tutor from the Glasgow Fiddle Workshop has been teaching uke workshops at Celtic Connections in Glasgow for the past 5 years and has been instrumental in spreading the popularity of this charming, wee and very portable instrument. He now runs a uke orchestra in Glasgow and we have high hopes of forming a Uke Group up here in the Highlands.

Were you lucky enough to get a ukulele for Christmas or for a special birthday? Do you have any idea what to do with it? Or do you just fancy giving it a go. This is the weekend for you. Even if you don’t have your own instrument, Finlay will be bringing some with him. He will lead you some well known songs – perhaps not ‘When I’m Cleaning Windows’ and you will be hooked.

Warning:- Life will never be the same!

For those of you who already play mandolin or guitar, Finlay will also be teaching workshops on the Sunday for more confident players

Timings for the workshops are:

Saturday

11.00-1pm Come and Try for complete beginners

2pm – 4pm Ukulele for Recent Beginners

Sunday

11.00- 1pm Ukulele for beginners and players of other string instruments

2pm – 4pm Round Up Session for all abilities

Costs for the workshops are £10 for each workshop. These classes are mainly for adults and older children. Lunch may be provided depending on numbers. Early booking is advisable as numbers are limited as he can only fit a certain number of instruments into his car!

For more information contact:

Cromarty Arts Trust on 01381 600354 or email info@cromartyartstrust.org.uk

Source: Cromarty Arts Trust

Dr Fred Freeman is author of two books on Scottish poetry and over a 100 articles on Scottish literature, folk music and history; producer / musical director of some 45 CDs, including his massive 12 vol, COMPLETE SONGS OF ROBERT BURNS (Linn Records). He has taught at both the School of Scottish Studies and the English Department at University of Edinburgh; and also held postdoctoral posts at Edinburgh and Oxford universities.

The talk will be held at the St Fergus Gallery on Thursday 23rd May 2013 from 6-8pm.

Tickets cost £5, concessions £3 and booking is essential.

To book places, please call St Fergus Gallery on 01955 603 489 or email: janaemburey@highlifehighland.com

Source: High Life Highland

Conjoining the sound of their own musical traditions, Vamm is an exciting string trio who weave together melody and harmony creating a rich sound, bursting with texture and groove. Newly formed in 2012, Shetland born Catriona MacDonald (ex Blazin’ Fiddles), Perthshire’s Patsy Reid (founding member of Breabach) and Norwegian Marit Falt, seamlessly create a dynamic yet intimate sound that will take your breath away. Vamm released their debut album earlier this year in late April to rave reviews.

Sardinian-born Elena Piras inherited her father’s love of music and singing – especially folk music. As a young child she sang in church choirs and later appeared regularly on local Italian TV. By the time she was a teenager Elena – who has been visually-impaired since birth – was an experienced artist performing for large audiences, singing and playing guitar professionally.

Since moving to the UK at the age of 18, Elena (who speaks six languages and is now learning Gaelic) has lived in London, where she co-founded and toured with the successful London Bulgarian choir. In 2006 she moved to Edinburgh, where her work at the Royal Scottish Academy of Art gave her the opportunity to become fully immersed in the music scene in Scotland.

Today, and now resident in Lerwick, she is a popular personality on the gigs and festivals circuit. She’s currently working on her own material, writing new arrangements for old traditional songs and also enjoying the success of her debut album Journey.

Source: Shetland Arts

In keeping with tradition, the week will kick off on Sunday the 21st of July with the Fèis Fun Run, where the tutors come together with the children, parents and community before the main Fèis in an informal situation for a fun-filled day. This is open to everyone and anyone who wishes to take part will meet on Sunday afternoon at Stoneybridge Hall to register. Any home baking or help on the day would be very much appreciated and if you wish to lend a hand, please get in touch on tam@ceol-uibhist.co.uk  where you will find more information about the Fèis. If you are available to help out on any day of the Fèis throughout the week, it would be very much appreciated.

Tuition in a multitude of instruments will be offered all week with renowned tutors, including accordion, harp, drums, chanter, tin whistle, guitar and keyboard. Children will also get the chance to learn Gaelic songs and to develop their media skills, and they will also be offered drama, art and shinty classes.

Keep an eye on www.ceol-uibhist.co.uk where more information will appear soon about the tutors’ cèilidh on Wednesday the 24th of July, the children’s cèilidh on the Friday, and a very special event – which is still in the planning stages – that will mark this significant milestone for the Fèis. Here you will also find application forms for the main Fèis with details of the classes that will offered purely through the medium of Gaelic. Fèis Tìr a’ Mhurain hope to have an incredible week, and all are very welcome to be involved.

For more information contact Shona Macmillan (Development Officer) through shona@feisean.org  or 01851 703487

Gaelic version

Fèis Tìr a’ Mhurain gu bhith a’ comharrachadh 25 bliadhna

Tha 25 bliadhna ann bho thòisich Fèis Tìr a’ Mhurain ann an Uibhist a Deas agus aig deireadh an t-Iuchar tha iad airson seo a chomharrachadh ann an dòigh sònraichte. A bharrachd air an Fhèis fhèin a ruith ann an Sgoil Ùr Dhalabroig leis na clasaichean àbhaisteach ann an iomadh ionnstramaid agus cuspairean a tha a’ buntainn ri dualchas na Gàidhealtachd, bidh consairtean agus cèilidhean aca bho fhìor thoiseach na seachdain, a bhios a’ taisbeanadh tàlant na Fèis eadar an luchd-teagasg agus a’ chlann.

Mar as àbhaist bidh cùisean a’ tòiseachadh le Rèis na Fèis air Latha na Sàbaid, an 21mh latha den t-Iuchar, far am bi an luchd-teagasg a’ tighinn còmhla ro thoiseach na Fèis ann an suidheachadh air leth neo-fhoirmeil còmhla ris a’ chlann, pàrantan agus daoine sa choimhearsnachd airson feasgar làn fealla-dhà agus dibhearsain. Tha seo fosgailte do dhuine sam bith agus bidh aig a h-uile duine a tha airson pàirt a ghabhail ri coinneachadh aig Tàlla Staoinebrig feasgar na Sàbaid airson na h-ainmean aca a chlàradh. Bhiodh bèicearachd agus taic le bhith a’ ruith an tachartas uabhasach feumail dhan a’ chomataidh, agus ma tha ùidh aig an duine sam bith le bhith a’ cuideachadh, leigibh fios gu tam@ceol-uibhist.co.uk  far am faigh sibh tuilleadh fiosrachaidh mu dheidhinn an Fhèis. Thathar cuideachd a’ sireadh dhaoine airson a bhith a’ cuideachadh tron t-seachdain, agus ma tha sibh saor air latha sam bith agus deònach taic a thoirt dhan Fhèis, nach leig sibh fios.

Bidh beartas de dh’ionnstramaidean ri ionnsachadh fad na seachdain le luchd-teagasg cliùiteach, nam measg bogsa-ciùil, clàrsach, drumaichean, feadan, fìdeag, fidheall, giotàr agus meur-chlàr. Bidh cothrom aig a’ chlann òrain Gàidhlig ionnsachadh agus na sgilean meadhanan aca a leasachadh, agus gheibh iad air dràma agus ealain a dhèanamh agus iomain a chluich.

Cumaibh sùil gheur air www.ceol-uibhist.co.uk fhad ’s a nochdas fiosrachadh anns an àm ri teachd mu dheidhinn cèilidh an luchd-teagaisg air Diciadain an 24mh latha den t-Iuchar, cèilidh na cloinne air Dihaoine agus tachartas gu math sònraichte a tha fhathast ga ullachadh a bhios a’ comharrachadh a’ chlach-mhìle annasach aig an Fhèis am-bliadhna. Gheibhear cuideachd foirmichean-iarrtais airson an Fhèis an seo, le fiosrachadh air na clasaichean a bhios gan tabhann tro mheadhan na Gàidhlig a-mhàin. Tha Fèis Tìr a’ Mhurain an dùil gum bi seachdain annasach aca, agus tha fàilte chrìdheil oirbh uile a bhith na lùib.

Cuiribh fios gu Shona Nic a’ Mhaoilein (Oifigear Leasachaidh) aig 01851 703 487 no shona@feisean.org  airson tuilleadh fiosrachaidh.

Source: Fèisean nan Gàidheal

DF Concerts & Events in association with Shetland Arts present Ricky Ross live at Mareel on Tuesday 19 November 2013. The Deacon Blue front man is touring his new album Trouble Came Looking, as well as performing other hits from his solo catalogue and Deacon Blue songs.

Ricky began writing Trouble Came Looking as the recession hit. It’s a modern folk album about the helplessness felt as governments signed off billions to protect banks, leaving the people to fend for themselves. Ricky said of the tour: “I’m looking forward to playing places we couldn’t get to with Deacon Blue, and sharing the untold stories behind my songs.”

A consummate songwriter, Ricky also spends a lot of his time co-writing songs for other acts. He has written for and with James Blunt, Ronan Keating, KT Tunstall, Cathy Burton, Gareth Gates, Emma Bunton, Will Young, and Jamie Cullum, among others.

Ricky also currently presents’ Another Country with Ricky Ross’ on BBC Radio Scotland and has covered for Bob Harris and Dermot O’Leary on BBC Radio 2. He also occasionally broadcasts for Radio 2 from the yearly Celtic Connections festival in Glasgow.

Shetland Arts’ Marketing Officer, Lisa Ward, said: “Ricky Ross is a real legend of the Scottish music scene. We expect that interest in this concert will be very high and recommend booking tickets early to avoid disappointment.”

Tickets cost £20 and will go on sale tomorrow morning (Friday 17 May) via Gigs In Scotland at www.gigsinscotland.com & Shetland Box Office in Mareel & Islesburgh, over the phone on 01595 745 555, or online at www.shetlandboxoffice.org & www.mareel.org

Source: Shetland Arts

Wind-Up Projectiles comprise young musicians Joe Watt on lead vocals and guitar, Hayden Hook on double bass, Chris Thomson on keys and Lewis Murray on drums. The hip hop / rock crossover group are influenced by musicians including Queens of the Stone Age, Soul Coughing, Cake, Tom Vek, Beck, A Tribe Called Quest and many more New York and LA Hip Hop groups.

Support will be provided on the night by singer-songwriter Chloe Robertson and Troppo Funk.

Prior to the public concert, there will be an invite only event featuring an acoustic set performed by the band upstairs in Mareel’s Cafe Bar. The band will host a Q&A session, and there will be a talk from Dirk Robertson who created the artwork for the E.P. and from Marjolein Robertson of Maddrim Media about the video for the track Confabulation, which will be premiered on the night.

Joe Watt said: “Recording our first E.P. with such a powerful resource base here at Mareel has been a great learning experience and an exciting venture into the inner workings of the UK Music Industry. We’ve all gained so much, it’s difficult to pick out individual things to commend, the whole thing has been bewilderingly awesome.”

The record label and live promotions company, together with video and radio production companies, are a network of projects set up by Shetland College music students studying at Mareel. The aim is to provide a real world commercial environment in which students can record, release and promote recordings and other media under the guidance of Mareel’s lecturers and technical staff. All aspects of the record industry are represented, and profits generated will be reinvested into future student projects.

Bryan Peterson, Course Leader and Shetland Arts Music Development Officer said: “We’re really lucky to have so many talented musicians on the courses, but playing ability is only one aspect of a successful career in music. The students have pulled together a wide range of Creative Industry skills and interests and made the best use of Mareel’s facilities to produce some fantastic quality and interlinked creative projects.”

Battery Park Records is a label run by Peter Keay, Hayden Hook and Patrick Mainland. Between them they fulfil all the roles of a record label – scouting for new talent, recording, mixing and mastering the material, legal and copyright requirements, through to the promotion and distribution stages.

To produce the Wind-Up Projectiles E.P. they had access to Mareel’s recording and multi-media production facilities, including the Pro Tools HD based studio and a range of world class recording spaces, microphones and preamps. The recording sessions were then completed by Chris Thomson at his home studio before coming back to Mareel for final mastering stages. The CD has been printed by local duplication company Cumlie Media, run by Maurice Smith.

Battery Park Records has several other releases in the pipeline, including recordings made by local traditional and heavy metal groups.

Battery Park Records takes its name from the Royal Navy Reserve gun battery which was based on the site of Mareel during the late 1800s and early 1900s. Fittingly, the 32 pounder cannons were used for training and target practice after being moved from Fort Charlotte due to the “terrible noise”.

Patrick Mainland said: “Being involved in all the functions of a small independent record company has been a rewarding experience for us, and has taught us skills which we can retain and use in further creative industry work. The Battery Park Records project is also a very exciting prospect for the prolific Shetland youth music scene.”

Renemal Promotions is run by Norman Willmore and Max Tyler who have been organising promotional videos, album tasters, posters, flyers and other marketing materials for the album launch events.

Norman Willmore said: “So far the college course has exceeded all my expectations and given me solid real life knowledge of the Creative Industries. I’m looking forward to the E.P. launch and seeing months of hard work pay off.”

Screenhack Media is run by students Damien Calder and Martha Thomson who have produced a promotional video and a ‘making of’ documentary for the E.P. which will be premiered at the launch event. They also plan to release a live music video of the concert.

Damien Calder said: “It’s been a great experience doing this creative project as well as the rest of the HNC Music course. Working with all of the others in the class, and the facilities in Mareel have made for an incredible learning environment. It has provided me with a lot of valuable information that I can apply to things I do outside of college.”

Shetland Independent Radio Productions is run by Joseph McCormack, Gwyn Davies and Eamonn Watt. They have produced a number of programmes for 60 North Radio which aim to highlight the diversity of Shetland musicians and provide talented content creators, both up-and-coming and experienced, with a platform to promote their work, discuss their stories and influences and to showcase their work to a wider audience.

Joseph McCormack said: “Getting the opportunity to be involved in real-world radio production has been an exciting and educational experience. The multimedia facilities at Mareel have been enormously useful, and have allowed us to tie our individual projects together to create a microcosmic music industry.”

For more information on the educational activities available at Mareel visit www.mareel.org/learn

The doors for the EP Launch gig open at 8:00pm and the gig starts at 8:30pm. Tickets are £8 flat rate, and are available via Shetland Box Office in Mareel & Islesburgh, over the phone on 01595 745 555, or at www.mareel.org and www.shetlandboxoffice.org

The E.P. will be available to purchase from Mareel & High Level Music.

E.P. Launch Facebook page

Box Office – http://www.shetlandboxoffice.org/whats-on/wind-up-projectiles-ep-launch

E.P. taster tracks on Soundcloud

Wind Up Projectiles E.P. Launch Promo video

Battery Park Records Facebook page

ScreenhackMedia Facebook page

Wind-Up Projectiles Facebook page

Source: Shetland Arts

A concert by the Ukulele Orchestra is a funny, virtuosic, twanging, awesome, foot-stomping obituary of rock-n-roll and melodious light entertainment featuring only the “bonsai guitar” and a menagerie of voices in a collision of post-punk performance and toe-tapping oldies. There are no drums, pianos, backing tracks or banjos, no pitch shifters or electronic trickery. Only an astonishing revelation of the rich palette of orchestration afforded by ukuleles and singing (and a bit of whistling). Audiences have a good time with the Ukulele Orchestra. Going from Tchaikovsky to Nirvana via Otis Redding and Spaghetti Western soundtracks, the Orchestra takes us on “a world tour with only hand luggage” and gives the listener “One Plucking Thing After Another.”

Shetland Arts’ Marketing Officer, Lisa Ward, said: “The Ukulele Orchestra is known worldwide for their fun and impressive performances, and will be the perfect antidote to the dark nights rolling in again in October.”

The Orchestra was formed in 1985 as a bit of fun, but the first gig was an instant sell-out, and they’ve been performing ever since. By 1988 they had released an LP, appeared on BBC TV, played at WOMAD and recorded a BBC Radio 1 session. The current ensemble has been playing together for over 20 years, and has become something of a national institution. The Orchestra has given thousands of sold-out concerts across the world, including Great Britain, Germany, Sweden, Finland, Poland, France, America, Canada, New Zealand and Japan. They have more recently performed sell-out shows at the Sydney Opera House (2012), The Royal Albert Hall (2008) and New York’s Carnegie Hall (2010).

Tickets cost £28 and will go on sale on Saturday 18 May at 2pm via Shetland Box Office in Mareel & Islesburgh, over the phone on 01595 745 555, or online at www.shetlandboxoffice.org and www.mareel.org

Source: Shetland Arts

Matthew Barley is celebrating 100 years of Benjamin Britten with an ambitious national tour which will include a performance in Mareel in Shetland. In what promises to be a fascinating and intriguing solo performance, showcasing his ever-growing virtuosity as a world-renowned cellist, Barley places Britten’s powerful Third Cello Suite at the centre of a programme which also includes a suite by J.S. Bach, who greatly inspired Britten. The programme also includes solo cello music by Tavener and specially commissioned new works by Dai Fujikura, James MacMillion, and DJ Jan Bang. Tickets cost £18 and are available via Shetland Box Office.

The four musicians of the Edrom String Quartet first met over 40 years ago through studies in Vienna and Austria during 1968 and 1970 before going their separate ways to follow their careers. Maeve became a member of the Wiener Solisten and Professor of Violin at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna; Lucy performed a wide variety of music playing baroque violin with the Banquet of Musick and teaching at the R.S.A.M.D. and playing Scots fiddle with Scottish Borders Music and the Rowantree Company; Ferdinand became Professor of Viola and Chamber Music at the Hague Conservatoire of Music and his recordings with the Orlando and Parkanyi Quartets were awarded 2 Grand Prix du Disques; and Donald joined the Music Faculty of The Chinese University of Hong Kong and was Associate Principal Cellist in the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra.

The four friends have met regularly over the years as Coaches at Spring and Summer Courses of the International Cello Centre (now known as the Edrom Casals Centre) a music school established by Pablo Casals in 1953. These courses took place for many years at Edrom House in the Scottish Borders and led to many performances by the Edrom Quartet. Tickets for their performance at Mareel cost £18 and are available via Shetland Box Office.

The Scottish Ensemble will take up a mini residency in Shetland from Wednesday 31 July to Saturday 3 August, engaging with the community in a bespoke programme of events including a silent movie screening and performance, a day of community events all around the Isles, an afternoon of ballroom dancing and cream tea, and culminating in a concert at Mareel which will feature a special composition about a sea journey from Dundee to Shetland – Seavaigers by Sally Beamish. Tickets for the concert cost £18 and will be available via Shetland Box Office from Saturday 18 May. More information on the mini residency is available at www.shetlandarts.org and www.mareel.org

Shetland Arts’ Marketing Officer, Lisa Ward, said: “Shetland Arts’ Summer of Classical Music is a celebration of the stunning musicianship and wide diversity of styles in the classical music scene. We know that there are a lot of classical music lovers in Shetland who will appreciate the chance to see these world-class musicians, and we expect that, by the end of the summer, there will be some new converts to the scene too.”

Tickets for Matthew Barley: Around Britten and the Edrom String Quartet are both available now via Shetland Box Office in Mareel & Islesburgh, over the phone on 01595 745 555, or online at www.mareel.org and www.shetlandboxoffice.org Tickets for the Scottish Ensemble final concert will go on sale via Shetland Box Office on Saturday 18 May at 2pm, and tickets for the Scottish Ensemble’s residency activities will go on sale in the near future. Please check Shetland Arts’ and Mareel’s websites and social media for updates.

Source: Shetland Arts

The programme for the Saturday evening concert aims to create new connections between folk and classical traditions, interweaving Scots folk with baroque and 20th century string music. The Scottish Ensemble will team up with folk super-duo Shetlander Chris Stout (fiddle) and Catriona McKay (Scottish harp), for a programme centring on two double concertos. This first describes a sea journey from Dundee to Shetland in Seavaigers, composed by Sally Beamish specifically for this combination of performers. In Bach’s instantly recognisable Concerto for 2 Violins, Chris Stout and Catriona McKay join the individual virtuosi of the Scottish Ensemble in a fresh take on core string repertoire. Tickets for this concert will go on sale on Saturday 18 May at 2pm via Shetland Box Office.

The residency in Shetland will kick off with Faust, a boundary-pushing night of electronic music, film and live performance from the Scottish Ensemble and DJ Alex Smoke on Wednesday 31 July in Mareel’s Main Auditorium. Murnau’s 1926 expressionist fantasy, Faust, tells the classic cautionary tale of the deadly consequences of entering into self-destructive deals with the devil. Paying homage to the musical accompaniments of the silent film era, DJ Alex Smoke has created a 21st-century soundtrack for electronics and strings bringing this dark and fantastical film to life. Lauded by the house and techno communities, Alex’s sets blur the boundaries between electronica, classical and hip hop and have led him to appear across the globe, including at the prestigious Sonar Festival in Barcelona.

On Thursday 1 August, the Ensemble is planning an Out & About Day – a day of events and performances all around the Islands. They are keen for members of the public, community groups, and local businesses to get in touch with Shetland Arts to suggest how the Ensemble and its musicians might best benefit the community. This might be a performance in a workplace, workshops with young musicians, or care home and community performances. If the environment is waterproof they are willing to consider all suggestions! Please email info@shetlandarts.org or call 01595 743 843 to register an interest or make a suggestion.

On 2 August, the Scottish Ensemble will take up the role of palm court orchestra for a Friday afternoon of ballroom classics, dancing and afternoon tea in Mareel’s Main Auditorium. Members of the public are invited to choose their partners and dance to favourites from a golden age performed by the talented players of the UK’s only professional string orchestra while enjoying a delicious afternoon tea. During the residency, the Ensemble will also lead workshops with local musicians and interested parties.

Scottish Ensemble Chief Executive, Thorben Dittes said: “Our residencies are all about developing relationships with communities. We respond to their individual needs by crafting a tailored programme of on- and off-platform events specific to the local area. Our collaboration with Shetland Arts is a dynamic new partnership which has been generously supported by Inksters Solicitors and Arts and Business Scotland to benefit the community of Shetland.”

The project is sponsored by Inksters Solicitors, owned by Shetlander Brian Inkster. Brian said: “After hearing the premier of Seavaigers at Celtic Connections in Glasgow in 2012 I thought it was appropriate for the piece to be performed in Shetland. My law firm, Inksters, has a strong Shetland connection with us doing legal work for many Shetlanders from Glasgow. I am delighted to strengthen that link and help take Scottish Ensemble to Shetland to perform Seavaigers with Chris and Catriona.”

The Ensemble has been awarded a New Arts Sponsorship grant to support its work during the Shetland residency. The grants provide match funding for new arts sponsors, doubling their sponsorship benefits. The scheme is funded by the Scottish Government and delivered by Arts and Business Scotland. David Watt, Chief Executive, Arts and Business Scotland said: “Inksters Solicitors’ sponsorship of the Scottish Ensemble clearly demonstrates how business can really benefit from associating with the arts. The New Arts Sponsorship grant also recognises how this partnership has empowered the Scottish Ensemble to create an innovative programme of activities that will engage with a wide variety of audiences during their residency in Shetland.”

Lisa Ward, Shetland Arts’ Marketing Officer, said: “The Scottish Ensemble is famous internationally for their ability to inspire audiences with vibrant performances which are powerful, challenging, and rewarding for all. Shetland Arts is pleased to work with them to deliver these residency activities in Shetland and the final concert at Mareel.”

Tickets for the final concert cost £18 and go on sale on Saturday 18 May at 2pm via Shetland Box Office in Mareel & Islesburgh, over the phone on 01595 745 555,and online at www.shetlandboxoffice.org and www.mareel.org. Tickets for the residency activities will also go on sale soon via Shetland Box Office.

Source: Shetland Arts

They will focus on how both bands and delegates can get the most out of the convention, which is free and takes place in Inverness on June 5-6. The discussion will provide advice on everything from meeting key speakers and promoting gigs, to practical tips such as where to get cheap accommodation

This year’s goNorth, boasts panels on A&R and International Booking Agents hosted by Born To Be Wide. Other music-related seminars include publishing, getting compositions into television shows, the role of producers and a discussion with leading music supervisors. In addition, the programme also features a diverse range of talks relating to film, screen, book publishing and broadcasting.

“GoNorth provides a unique opportunity for the creative industries to come together,” says Born To Be Wide director, Olaf Furniss. “The event has led to acts getting radio play, festival bookings, syncs and record deals.”

Date: Thursday 7th March

Venue: The Electric Circus, Edinburgh map

Time: 1930-2130 Seminar [includes interval]

Price: Free get tickets here

2130-Late DJ Sets by seminar guests [free]

Panelists:

Vic Galloway [Radio Scotland/Sunday Herald]

Amanda Millen [goNORTH Festival Director]

Alex Smith [goNORTH Project Manager for music]

Ben Sunderland [Chasing Owls]

Source: BTBW

The Stables, Cromarty, The Black Isle

Sunday 19th May, 4:00pm

“Steele’s lyrical trumpet work bristled with invention, by turns rich and warm or sharp-edged and plangent as the music demanded, while Milligan’s constantly imaginative pianism, rich in harmonic colour and rhythmic momentum beneath his melodic creations, again demonstrated what a fully developed player he is.”

***** THE SCOTSMAN

Trumpeter and composer Colin Steele has been described as the Sibelius of Scotland. His music is a joyous celebration of Scottish melody and rhythm, liberated and enhanced by the spirit, sophistication and technique of jazz. His recordings and concerts are warm, life affirming, and thrilling in their effect. He disarms the most hardened jazz fan with the power and beauty of his music and his playing speaks strongly to audiences of all musical tastes. (Even those who insist they don’t like jazz!)

For those who love the work of his Quintet and Stramash, this concert is a rare treat; Dave Milligan has been part of Steele’s original music projects for over 10 years as a sideman and arranger, and the two have been playing together for over 15 years. Milligan is regarded as one of Scotland’s most individual jazz pianists, notably for his unique ability to flavour his music with Scottish folk and Celtic influences without losing the element of creative originality that makes his improvisations so engrossing. Together they have produced award-winning albums and performed throughout Europe to critical acclaim. They started playing together in the 1990’s, and went on to collaborate on a wide variety of projects, including: Midnight Blue Band, Melting Pot, Colin Steele Quintet, Stramash, The Unusual Suspects, Bachue, The Edinburgh Festival Jazz Orchestra and ‘A Funny Valentine’ – a theatre show about the life and music of Chet Baker.

Now, in a welcome return visit, Steele & Milligan appear in an intimate duo setting in the beautiful setting of The Stables, Cromarty in the Black Isle. Unmissable.

HOW TO BOOK

Tickets are £10 / £8 & £3 for children, and are available from:

Cromarty Arts Trust, Ardyne, Bank Street, Cromarty, The Black Isle IV11 8YE

http://www.cromartyartstrust.org.uk

Tel: 01381 600354

Source: Cromarty Arts Trust

The Scottish six piece fiddle-driven band has recently undergone personnel changes and now boasts contemporary acclaimed fiddle players Jenna Reid, Bruce MacGregor, Allan Henderson and Iain Macfarlane who are joined by Anna Massie on guitar/fiddle and Angus Lyon on keyboard. The band draws on each members individual inspirations and traditions which collectively has re-invigorated and re-energised the heart and soul of the band resulting in breathtaking performances wherever they play.

Throughout the tour the band will showcase much of the the material destined for the forthcoming new album – due for release in early 2014 – as well as breathing renewed energy into many of the tunes and stories that have become audience favourites over the band’s 15 year history.

‘We are all looking forward to playing in England again’ says founding member Bruce MacGregor. ‘Our music has always been well received by English audiences and they always make us feel so welcome’

http://www.blazin-fiddles.co.uk/

Full tour dates:

14th Harrogate Theatre, Harrogate 01423 502116

15th The Met, Bury 0161 761 2216

18th The Guildhall, Grantham 01476 406158

20th Key Arts Centre, Peterborough 01733 207239

21st Phoenix, Exeter 01392 665938

23rd Cornerstone, Didcot 01235 515144

26th Stables, Milton Keynes 01908 280800

28th Assembly Rooms, Ludlow 01584 873229

29th The Brewery, Kendal 01539 725133

Source: Iconic Music

Now in its seventh year, the competition, which has proved an invaluable stepping stone for musicians including the prize-winning, Berklee School of Music-trained pianist Alan Benzie and Ruaridh Pattison, who is currently leading the internationally acclaimed Scottish National Jazz Orchestra’s saxophone section, is offering entrants greater incentives and opportunities including recordings and live performances that will enhance their career expectations.

From an initial audio audition, judged purely on the quality of entrants’ musicianship, ten semi-finalists will now advance to a mentoring weekend, where they will participate in workshops and receive advice on all aspects of working in the jazz sector before performing in a concert. Following this concert, the five top players chosen by a panel of judges headed by leading saxophonist Laura Macdonald will go forward to the final, which will be held in the Beach Ballroom, Aberdeen on July 31 in partnership with Aberdeen International Youth Festival and Shell UK and will be broadcast live on BBC Radio Scotland.

The winner, as well as receiving £1000 in cash plus a further £1000 towards a demo recording, will feature in a high profile, six venue tour of Scotland. The prize will also include performances on BBC Radio Scotland’s Jazzhouse and at Glasgow and London Jazz Festivals 2014 and professional publicity materials. The Winner will also appear in a special concert on August 1 in Aberdeen’s award-winning jazz venue, the Blue Lamp, along with a number of previous winners.

Announcing the competition’s upgrade, the Scottish Jazz Federation’s Cathie Rae said: “This new format offers entrants an experience that will be both fun and valuable to them as musicians. Previous winners have all gone on to successful careers and we are confident that the main prize will really help to kick-start the winner’s career as a top jazz musician. We are grateful for the support of Aberdeen International Youth Festival, Shell UK and main sponsor, Creative Scotland.”

The time line for entrants is: all entries for the initial audio panel must be received by May 29th at 5pm. Semi-finalists will be announced on June 3 and the mentoring weekend will take place in South Lanarkshire over the weekend of June 7-9.

For further information and an application form contact email admin@scottishjazzfederation.com , visit the SJF website at www.scottishjazzfederation.com or call the office on 01368 866895 for an application form.

Source: SJF

Michael Collins is among the most prominent British clarinettists of his generation. He has appeared in concert as principal clarinettist with the Philharmonia Orchestra and London Sinfonietta, as a member of the Nash Ensemble, and as a freelance soloist and chamber player. He has made more than 30 recordings for the Hyperion label since 1984 mostly in chamber music fare. He has also recorded for DG, Chandos, and EMI. By age 16 he attained virtuoso status, winning the woodwind prize at the 1978 BBC Young Musician of the Year competition.

Belfast-born pianist Michael McHale has established himself as one of the leading Irish pianists of his generation. Since completing his studies at Cambridge University and the Royal Academy of Music he has developed a busy international career as a solo recitalist, concerto soloist and chamber musician. Michael has performed at many important musical centres including Suntory Hall, Tokyo, Lincoln Center, New York, Konzerthaus, Berlin, Pesti Vigadó, Budapest, and the Ushuaia and Tanglewood Festivals and for TV and radio broadcasts throughout Europe, Asia, North and South America. His début solo album The Irish Piano was released in 2012 on the RTÉ lyric fm label, and was selected as ‘CD of the Week’ by Norman Lebrecht who described it as “scintillating…fascinating from start to stop”.

Tickets for the concert are £15; £12 concessions. To reserve tickets call North Highland Connections on 0752 107 7053, or e-mail: MF@northhighlandconnections.org

On 15th June NHC presents another of its Young Artistes concerts with a performance by the Sutherland Duo in Dunrobin Castle. On 27th June NHC will present a lecture on Caithness’s Nordic history at Mackays Hotel in Wick. The lecture will be given by Dr Donna Heddle, Director of the Nordic Studies Centre of the University of the Highlands & Islands. More information can be found on the NHC website: www.northhighlandconnections.org

Source: North Highland Connections

Cappuccino Concert

Saturday 18th May, 11am (coffee available from 10.30am) Tickets £5 at the door.

Kenna Campbell and Wilma Kennedy, Gaelic singers

Kenna Campbell is recognised as one of the principal tradition bearers of contemporary Gaelic Scotland. Born in Roag, near Dunvegan on the Isle of Skye, and now living in Glasgow, she belongs to a family of singers and pipers – the Campbells of Greepe. Her greatest passion is for the òran mòr or the “big song” in classical Gaelic tradition, and the family as a whole share a special talent in the singing of mouth music or puirt a beul.

Her love of song is matched by that of her desire to pass on this knowledge and skill to a new generation of singers, and her role as principal tutor in Gaelic Song at the RSAMD’s Scottish Music degree is characterised by a contemporary approach matched with a respect for the roots of tradition.

Her daughter Wilma Kennedy is also a renowned Gaelic singer, broadcaster and teacher. A double Mod Gold Medallist, she is very well known in Dundee as the director of the award-winning Dundee Gaelic choir and Gaelic song tutor for Friends of Wighton.

Source: Sheena Wellington

The BEVVY SISTERS

Spanning genres from country to jazz, gospel to original indie-pop

“Rare vocal chemistry. . . Stunningly beautiful patterns of harmonic colour and overlapping resonance. . .rarefied and sumptuous” (Northings)

Mixing equal measures of sweetness and sass, grit and glamour, heartbreak and hilarity, cut with a dash of potent Scottish spirit, The Bevvy Sisters’ radiantly triple-layered voices and artfully wide-ranging repertoire have won fervent acclaim and an ever-swelling fan-base across the UK roots scene. Their freshly re-blended line-up teams longtime vocalist Heather MacLeod and one-man band David Donnelly with celebrated jazz doyenne Gina Rae and Banjo Mama Cera Impala.

The Bevvys’ signature creative alchemy, spanning genres from country to jazz, gospel to original indie-pop, resounds with renewed vitality standing out from the crowd in both style and substance. More intoxicating than ever: pure vocal magic, distilled to the power of three.

www.sunartcentre.org

Tickets £10 (OAPs £8, under 16s £6) available now from

Strontian Stores, Acharacle Shop & Post Office, Lochaline Stores,

Ardgour Stores, Granite House (Fort William) and online through TicketSource

Source: Glenuig Hall

Shetland Arts is delighted to announce that it will present an American Roots weekend in July, Thursday 18 – Saturday 20, featuring gospel, Cajun, and bluegrass music from The McCrary Sisters, Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys, and The Coal Porters.

The McCrary Sisters will open the weekend with a performance in Mareel on Thursday 18 July. Alfreda, Ann, Deborah and Regina were recently crowned as “arguably Nashville’s greatest soul sisters” by Robert Oermann in the USA’s famed Music Row Magazine, and have long been the first-call soul voices for the likes of Bob Dylan, Stevie Wonder, Dr John, Isaac Hayes, Buddy Miller, and Patty Griffin. They have also sung with Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash, and recently appeared on the new Mavericks album.

Having shared the stage over the years with the afore-mentioned legends, they hit the spotlight in their own right in 2011 thanks to their hugely acclaimed debut album Our Journey, an album that made many Top 10 lists in the USA that year. This years’ follow up All the Way is another triumphant blend of classic gospel, funk, blues and soul.

There are few words to describe the power, passion and pure soulfulness of the sisters live. They are making their first visit to the UK as part of this years’ Southern Fried Festival in Perth, and Shetland Arts is proud to be working in association with Southern Fried to bring Shetland audiences a unique taste of this magnificent group during their brief visit to the UK.

Friday 19 July will see Mareel welcome Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys. In their 25 years together, Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys have deservedly gained a world-wide, unparalleled reputation for excellence in Cajun music, going from strength to strength, constantly evolving, but still sounding as fresh and invigorated as the day they first formed.

Never before in the world of Cajun music has such a comparable wealth of individual musical talent and skill been brought together at the same table: Riley wields a button box that “squeezes like an accordion but shouts hallelujah like a big brass band,” and is surrounded by fiddle, guitar, three heartfelt voices and a power-house rhythm section.

The Coal Porters, formed ten years ago by ex Long Ryders front-man Sid Griffin, will make a welcome return to Shetland on Saturday 20 July to provide the bluegrass strand of the American Roots weekend. They will also do a second rural concert on Friday 19 at the Muckle Roe Hall.

After five very well received albums, plus live appearances at the likes of the Glastonbury Festival, extensive tours of the USA, Europe and further afield and opening for the likes of the legendary Chris Hillman (Byrds and Flying Burrito Bros) The Coal Porters continue to delight audiences all over the world with the intense power of fiddle, mandolin, banjo, acoustic guitar, doghouse bass and a wonderful four-part harmony vocal delivery.

The Coal Porters deliver a fresh, invigorated ‘take’ on traditional, acoustic bluegrass that still maintains all the authentic and necessary elements of the original music and sound, attracting new and often younger audiences to the genre, while still more than satisfying the already committed and purist Bluegrass aficionado in the process.

Their one-off Scottish date in Mareel will round off wonderfully what should be a terrific three days of American Roots music in the islands.

Shetland Arts’ Marketing Officer, Lisa Ward, said: “The American Roots weekend this summer is going to be something really special. The line-up is world-class, and sure to be very popular with Shetland audiences.”

Tickets cost £20 for each concert at Mareel, or as a special American Roots weekend deal, £50 for all three concerts. They will go on sale on Saturday 18 May and will be available to purchase via Shetland Box Office in Mareel & Islesburgh, over the phone on 01595 745 555, or online at www.shetlandboxoffice.org and www.mareel.org

Source: Shetland Arts

Reno decided to move to Inverness with his wife in 2008, pending the arrival of their first child. He has since remained in the Highlands as a singing teacher, college lecturer, musical director, and Chairman of the Inverness Music Festival.

“Many arias in this recital were sung by adults who were castrated in their youth; the lack of testosterone produced a male soprano, allowing them to sing to incredible heights with unbelievable vocal power.” Reno explains. He was also keen to point out the differences between countertenors and castrati:

“Countertenors, for lack of a better word, are “intact”. Our voices are slightly lower than the castrati, but the overall advance of technical knowledge has brought about a sharp rise in the power and ability of this voice type.”

Reno has worked as a principal artist for opera houses across europe, and his UK appearances include English National Opera, and Scottish Opera .

The recital will include special guests, such as the promising young tenor from Nairn, Glen Cunningham. He was recently accepted to the Royal Scottish Conservatoire and will be studying there this year, with the hopes of following in Reno’s footsteps.

Also performing in the concert will be Inverness-based youth production company, Showstopperz, and the Troilus Ensemble chamber choir.

Despite the return to the circuit, Reno has insisted the Highlands is his family’s permanent residence.

“My wife and I felt it important that I took a step back from opera so that I wouldn’t miss precious time with the children. The timing now feels right to return to the stage, although our base is set to remain here”

Heroic Arias is to be performed at Eden Court’s One Touch Theatre on Thursday May 16th, 7:30pm. Tickets are £12/£10, and available at Eden Court box office, or online at www.eden-court.co.uk

Source: Inverness Festival Association

The Southern Fried Festival line up has been finalised and Scotland’s sixth festival of American roots music is ready to roll!

The Mavericks headline the Southern Fried Festival in Perth from Friday 19 to Sunday 21 July. Other major acts include Patty Griffin, Shelby Lynne, Bettye LaVette, Darrell Scott and Danny Thompson, Tom Russell and Larkin Poe and the first ever UK visit from The McCrary Sisters.

Two sisters in soul, jazz and country open the Southern Fried Festival on Friday 19 July in Perth Concert Hall. Shelby Lynne’s confessional and eclectic classic I Am Shelby Lynne earned her a Grammy as Best New Artist. Her distinctively southern blend of soul, pop, country, blues and jazz has established her as one of the most consistently fascinating artists on the American music scene. She is joined by one of the great soul voices of our time. Now enjoying a well-deserved renaissance after 50 years in the business, Bettye LaVette’s colourful personal and professional life is expressed powerfully in her eclectic choice and emotional interpretation of songs.

Late and Southern Fried in Perth Theatre from 10.45pm on Friday 19 July features “Titan of the Telecaster”; Grammy nominated guitarist, singer and songwriter Bill Kirchen and “one of Scotland’s best kept secrets” – Roddy Hart. Bill Kirchen celebrates an American musical tradition where rock ‘n’ roll and country music draws upon its origins in blues and bluegrass, rockabilly, Western swing from Texas and California honky-tonk. Glaswegian singer/songwriter Roddy Hart invites comparisons with greats such as Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello, Bob Dylan and Tom Petty, and is gaining a growing reputation for his live shows with his band, The Lonesome Fire.

Festival-goers can “dance the night away” on Saturday 20 July when The Mavericks play a standing gig in Perth Concert Hall. Back on tour with a new album, the country-steeped garage band with their Cuban American lead singer brings an infectious energy and robust sound to make them one of the most exciting live acts from any musical genre. They are supported by one of the hottest new indie bands around; David Wax Museum.

Southern Fried brings Nashville’s The McCrary Sisters to the UK for the first time for Late and Southern Fried in Perth Theatre on Saturday 20 July. The daughters of the late Rev. Samuel McCrary – one of the original members of the legendary gospel quartet The Fairfield Four – The Sisters have appeared on Buddy Miller and Patty Griffin’s spiritual albums, with Mike Farris and Bob Dylan and on the new Mavericks album among many other credits. They stepped into the spotlight in their own right with their excellent debut album Our Journey two years ago, and their new record All The Way is a triumphant blend of classic gospel, funk, blues and soul, most of it written by the Sisters. They are joined by Perth’s own The New Madrids.

Playing for the first time in the UK for a number of years, Patty Griffin is joined on Sunday 21 July in Perth Concert Hall by star of Transatlantic Sessions Darrell Scott (and fellow bandmate in Robert Plant’s Band of Joy) with legendary bassist Danny Thompson. An iconic figure in the Americana music scene, Patty Griffin’s singing is as unmistakable and inimitable as her songwriting. Among the many artists who’ve recorded her songs are the Dixie Chicks, Bette Midler, and Emmylou Harris.

Darrell Scott is not only one of the finest songwriters in Nashville, but a stunning singer, a phenomenal guitar player and a gifted multi-instrumentalist to boot. A hit at last year’s Southern Fried Festival, he brings along his great friend and legendary bassist Danny Thompson of John Martyn, Richard Thompson and Nick Drake fame.

The powerful emotional punch, vast scope and sheer precision of Tom Russell’s work rank him high among the great American writers of our time irrespective of genre. He is joined for a Saturday afternoon gig at Perth Theatre by AJ Roach who showcased the breadth of his talent at the Johnny Cash: Songwriter concert at last year’s Southern Fried Festival.

Known for presenting acts whose music meets at the boundaries of indie, folk and roots, Hazy Recollections present their first show outside Glasgow in a free Twa Tams gig on Saturday afternoon where David Wax Museum, AJ Roach and Little Fire will be joined by nouveau rockers The Holy Ghosts with a specially Americanised set from Findlay Napier and the Bar Room Mountaineers.

Sunday afternoon’s Perth Theatre show features 21 and 22 year old duo Larkin Poe – Rebecca and Megan Lovell. Their tight vocal harmonies and dizzying instrumental riffs range from folk-rock to acoustic R&B and from contemporary country to delicate singer-songwriter. They are joined by Brennen Leigh who injects a mix of classic country and bluegrass with contemporary relevance.

This year’s Sunday Gospel Brunch is bigger and better than ever before and features an auditorium performance with The McCrary Sisters, Larkin Poe, The Gospel According to Mr Niz and Southern Fried Voices.

Visiting musicians can join local performers in the intimate surrounds of the Greyfriars Bar for festival fixture the Southern Fried Open Mic.

Festival director Andy Shearer said:

“2013 is a year of returning Southern Fried favourites! Raul Malo’s 2011 gig in Perth Theatre totally rocked and we are delighted to invite him back to the main stage along with souped-up Mavericks bolstered by key members of his own band. There was a huge buzz around Darrell Scott’s performances at the Johnny Cash celebration and his solo gig last year with many fans declaring this their all-time Southern Fried highlight. This led us to break with convention and ask Darrell back for an encore just one year down the line, especially as this time he’ll be joined by legendary acoustic bassist Danny Thompson!

“We are delighted, as well, to welcome some musicians who haven’t graced our shores for the longest time – Patty Griffin, whose recent album features Robert Plant, Bettye LaVette who is enjoying the most extraordinary career surge after fifty years in the business and the incredibly talented Shelby Lynne, We’re particularly pleased that Southern Fried is bringing the incredible McCrary Sisters to the UK for the very first time. They’re the go-to black gospel singers in Nashville and have sung on countless records including the new Mavericks release.

“As ever with Americana, it is all about the song, and, with the breadth and depth of artists we have lined up for Southern Fried 2013, we are looking forward, once again to sharing an unforgettable festival experience.”

BBC Radio Scotland will be on site recording highlights for broadcast on American roots show Another Country and, of course, the famous Southern Fried soul food is the icing on the cake for this annual Americana feast served up with a warm slice of Scottish hospitality.

Check out the latest as it emerges on www.southernfriedfestival.co.uk; make sure you are a Southern Fried Facebook and Twitter buddy for all the back stage chat, and tune into the Southern Fried You Tube channel for a taster of what’s in store.

For tickets and info contact Horsecross Arts box office on 01738 621031 visit www.southernfriedfestival.co.uk

Source: Horsecross

SUNDAY 9th JUNE
BL’AZZ at Eden Court, Bishop’s Road, Inverness presents:
Music for your heart, hands and feet:
‘The Bob Hall Show’
“the finest blues and boogie woogie piano player this side of the Atlantic”
2.30pm to 5.00pm in the ‘Maclean’ room
Tickets £8.00 each from the Eden Court Box Office or by telephone on: 01463 234234

SUNDAY 23rd JUNE
BL’AZZ at Eden Court, Bishop’s Road, Inverness presents:
Multifarious melodies from up there:
‘The Farr Bay Blues-blowers’
and their guest singers and players
2.30pm to 5.00pm in the ‘Maclean’ room
Tickets £8.00 each from the Eden Court Box Office or by telephone on: 01463 234234

SUNDAY 7th JULY
BL’AZZ at Eden Court, Bishop’s Road, Inverness presents:
Discerning dixieland from:
‘The North Coast Jazz Band’
‘classic’ hot jazz from the cold north
2.30pm to 5.00pm in the ‘Maclean’ room
Tickets £8.00 each from the Eden Court Box Office or by telephone on: 01463 234234

SUNDAY 28th JULY
BL’AZZ at Eden Court, Bishop’s Road, Inverness presents:
From The ‘Dundee Blues Bonanza':
‘Wolftrain’
featuring the main man: Bob Telford with Piano and Vocals
2.30pm to 5.00pm in the ‘Maclean’ room
Tickets £8.00 each from the Eden Court Box Office or by telephone on: 01463 234234

Source: N Mackenzie

This is a special concert as it is TOMS 5th Birthday concert, and is dedicated to Ian Gow, our Chairman, in appreciation of everything he has done for TOMS over these 5 years.

Ian was the vision behind the creation of TOMS and has devoted a significant amount of time to its success since then, ranging from giving advice from his considerable wealth of musical knowledge on the selection of performers, to folding programmes!

It was felt appropriate that the concert should include an item that is one of Ian’s favourites, and he chose Schubert’s Trout Quintet.

We contacted Ashok Klouda – a wonderful cellist who performed for TOMS a couple of years ago – and asked him invite others to join him in a Quintet. So…..for one night only…… there will be a performance from the KLOUDA QUINTET – created especially for this recital at Boat of Garten.

The items for the first half of the programme were also selected by Ian from choices suggested by Ashok.

I give details of the programme, and members of the KLOUDA QUINTET below

Rossini String Sonata No.3 in C Major (for 2 violins, cello & double bass)

Mendelssohn Piano Trio in C Minor No.2

-Interval-

Schubert ‘Trout’ Quintet

KLOUDA QUINTET,

Cello – Ashok Klouda

Violin – Natalie Klouda

Violin/viola – Benjamin Roskams

Double Bass – Alexandra Scott

Piano – Simon Callaghan

We do hope very many of you will wish to come to this concert, and I will be happy to receive your requests for tickets and cheques as soon as possible. Ticket prices £14 members: £16 non-members.

Ann Napier

The Osprey Music Society

Blinkbonny

Boat of Garten PH24 3BX

01479 831213

07850752757

Source: TOMS