TRADITIONAL
Nothing beats the thrill of a live gig. And here in Scotland you can feast your ears on the very best traditional music in fantastic venues all over the country.
If a truly traditional experience is what you're after, you won't be disappointed. Acts like the Anna Massie Band, Julie Foulis and Jim Malcolm are all much-loved regulars on the circuit here. Oran Mor and The Royal Oak in Glasgow, Sandy Bells and The Lismore in Edinburgh, Hootananny in Inverness and The Mishnish in Tobermory are just some of the venues where you can catch regular live performances from top traditional artists. And if you want to find more, The Scottish Music Centre has a really useful directory that'll point you in the right direction.
Like your music with a contemporary twist? Scotland's traditional music festivals are the place to head. There are loads going on all across the country, with many taking place amidst spectacular scenery. So your sightseeing can be accompanied with a fantastic soundtrack. The Blend Festival, Celtic Connections, the Hebridean Celtic Festival, Spring Fling and Blas are not to be missed, with class acts like Shooglenifty, the Peatbog Faeries, the Findlay Macdonald Band, Salsa Celtica, Capercaillie and Red Hot Chilli Pipers wowing the crowds.
And if you've ever needed an excuse to head to the pub, here's a brilliant one: traditional musicians regularly put on intimate performances in many of our local pubs, the relaxed atmosphere and informal setting making for a truly memorable night out. Join friendly locals and visitors alike, cheering on artists performing new numbers as well as folk tunes that have been heard in these lands for centuries. And don't be shy - we love a good old sing-a-long in Scotland.
Of course no piece on Scottish traditional music would be complete without a mention of our most historic instrument - the bagpipes. Scotland's piping scene has been alive and kicking for centuries, but it's definitely moved with the times. These days, piping events draw thousands of visitors from all over the world to watch and, if you fancy it, participate. Hear the crème de la crème of pipers from across the globe join forces with the very best home grown talent at events like Piping Live!, The World Pipe Band Championships and the now legendary Edinburgh Military Tattoo. We can guarantee you'll be blown away!