Ceilidh Culture 2009 Launches Programme
Ceilidh Culture today launched this year's programme of roots based concerts, ceilidhs, storytelling, dancing and more, at Edinburgh's Storytelling Centre.
This year they have even added a Ceilidh Culture Street Fair which will take place in Castle Street from the 27th to the 29th of March with a selection of stalls selling Scottish food stuffs, crafts, books, and will have live music and the possibility of taking City tours.
The Festival has grown from 5000 people attending when it first started to 17,000 last year and its hoped that in this Homecoming year the attendance will be well up on last year's figures. The Festival runs for twenty days and attracts many famous names in the World of Folk music.
For the full programme see below.... Editor
Ceilidh Culture 2009!
Celebrating traditional arts
through music, song, dance, and storytelling
27 March-18 April 2009
Box office information is listed for each event. Tickets for most, but not all, events are available from the Ceilidh Culture box office
Singing the Stories, Telling the Songs
So what does it mean to be Scottish these days? Spend an evening with storyteller Marie Louise Cochrane and award-winning singer-songwriter Lee Patterson, who share original and traditional songs and stories that speak of what being contemporary Scots means to them. An entertaining evening of tales and live music for Ceilidh Culture and Homecoming 2009.
Tickets also available from 0131 556 9579 or www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk
Friday 27 March at 7:30pm
Scottish Storytelling Centre
£8/£6 (Concession)
Burns ‘n' Blue: The Jolly Beggars and' That
Come and celebrate the Burns 2009 Homecoming with this family friendly show! The concert centres round Burns's little known, but outstanding, folk ballad musical, consisting of 8 superb songs and 8 recitativi (short poems). The balance of the concert runs the gamut, from the light instrumental tunes (the foot-tapping songs based upon jigs and reels) to the more moving love songs and serious political material. The show presents a cross section of ‘The Complete Songs of Robert Burns', fully bringing the song-writer and the songs to life. ‘Great voices, great songs, tasteful arrangements - who could ask for more'.
* ‘The Merry Muses' at 9.30pm
Friday 27 March, 7.30pm
The Pleasance Cabaret Bar
£9/£7 (concession) £16/£13 (concession) for 2 show package*
Canongate Cadjers Ceilidh Band: ‘Ceilidh' 'til you drop
Playing in their home town at Ceilidh Culture for the third successive year, this is a must see fun-packed gig. The Canongate Cadjers are inspired traditional musicians, especially so when performing live on stage with their varied programme of music, song and dance. This event is suitable for all ages (from 12 years upwards) and our Caller will ensure everybody will have a great time whether you know the dances or not - come and listen to the music and give it a try!
For info: www.canongatecadjers.com
Friday 27 March, 8pm
The Merlin Roadhouse
£8/£6 (concession)
Burns ‘n' Blue: ‘The Merry Muses'
Come and celebrate the Burns 2009 Homecoming in this hilarious show. The bawdy songs of Robert Burns, actually amongst his best compositions, were never published or performed during the poet's lifetime. They are uproariously funny and, for the most part, very upbeat and rhythmical: slip jigs and reels. Ever present is the satirist, who views sex as a great social leveler, and a passionate man who writes from both female and male points of view about the joy of sex. A show strictly for adults only. ‘A brilliantly deadpan sense of mischief pervaded this show in its balance of impeccable execution and eye-wateringly outrageous content - the tears being generally those of laughter'. Sue Wilson. The Sunday Herald.
* The Jolly Beggars And A' That at 7.30pm
Friday 27 March, 9.30pm m
The Pleasance Cabaret Bar
£9/£7 (concession) £16/£13 (concession) for 2 show package*
Portobello Fun Fiddle: Tea, Scones, Music and Dancing
Come and join Portobello Fun Fiddle in an afternoon of musical performance, tea scones, and finishing up with a mini - ceilidh dance. Featuring fiddlers of all ages, Portobello musicians, and surprise guest spots. Fun Fiddle, led by Jenny Gardner and Gica Loening, is a community based fiddle project for children and adults. This event is supported by Portobello Open Door (www.the_pod.org).
Tickets available on the door only.
For info: 0131 669 7618 or 01875 320869 or www.funfiddle.co.uk
Saturday 28 March, 2-4.30pm f m
St James' Church Hall
Adult £4/£3 (concession)/£2 (children)
Ceilidh Collective: Family Ceilidh; Cosmic Ceilidh Band
Our afternoon family friendly ceilidh with juice bar, healthy snacks (and naughty delights) and fully called dances, returns! The Cosmic Ceilidh Band will be leading the dances with a lively mix of traditional music and funky grooves. From the furious fiddle to the harmonious harp this youthful band will have everyone dancing to some most unusual tunes! Gandolf will lead the way through the programme in his indescribable manner. This event will raise funds for Post Natal Depression Services and the Birth Resources Centre.
Tickets also available from 07946 226208 (Robin) or www.ceilidhcollective.org.uk .
Saturday 28 March, 2-5pm
Roxy Art House, The Ceilidh Hall
£7/£4.50 (concession)/£3 (Children under 12)
Ceilidh Collective: Spring Equinox Ceilidh; Cosmic Ceilidh Band and friends
After a stunning sell-out last year, this year our Spring Equinox Ceilidh welcomes the Cosmic Ceilidh Band - a five-piece band with a lively mix of traditional music and funky grooves. They will be supported by The Makin Four (a genre-spanning quartet guided by the spirit of jazz), Rachel Amey (spoken word artist/performance poet) and The Darlin' Clementines (Old Time country and ‘Wiston-cowboy' tunes and harmonies of yesteryear). Our Master of Ceremonies will be none other than Gandolf. 100% of profits will be split 50:50 with SAMH's Redhall Walled Garden and Wiston Lodge.
Tickets also available from 07946 226208 (Robin) or www.ceilidhcollective.org.uk .
Saturday 28 March, 7pm
Roxy Art House, The Ceilidh Hall
£10/£6 (concession)/£3 (Children under 12)
Out of the Mouth of the Morning - Tales of the Celt
One of Scotland's foremost storytellers, David Campbell performs tales from his new book, Out of the Mouth of the Morning, accompanied by acclaimed cellist and singer Wendy Weatherby. As in the times of the bard, the art and atmosphere of Celtic tales are brought alive in a marriage of word and music. Discover living Celtic epics in a creative synthesis where the musician's imagination infuses the tale and the storytellers' vision enters the music. Followed by refreshments and book sales and signing hosted by Luath Press.
Tickets also available from 0131 556 9579 or www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk
Saturday 28 March, 7.30-8.30pm s
Scottish Storytelling Centre
£8/£6 (concession)
Scottish Wildlife Trust Lothians Ceilidh with the Crowdiehouse Band
Come and join the Scottish Wildlife Trust for the Lothians annual ceilidh with the amazing Crowdiehouse Ceilidh band. The band is a six-piece, fiddle-driven, Scottish ceilidh band of the finest quality based in Edinburgh, but with a distinctly west highland flavour. Calling for all dances is provided as required. Southside Community Centre is a family friendly spacious dance venue - with a licensed bar provided by the Lothian Conservation Volunteers. Come and enjoy a top quality dance band and help raise money for local wildlife!
Saturday 28 March, 8pm f m d
Southside Community Centre
Adult £8/£6 (concession) £5 (children under 16)
The BIG Dance Base Family Ceilidh (ages 6+)
Come and dance yer socks off to Judith Linton and David Scott of the Glenelvan Dance Band. The band of international fame have played for many Caledonian Societies in the Falklands, Russia, India, Venezuela, America and all over Europe. A chance to bring your youngsters along for the first hour and experience a social time of dancing with others. Dances specially selected and taught for children and parents to enjoy together.
Tickets also available from 0131 225 5525 or www.dancebase.co.uk
Saturday 28 March, 6.30-7.30pm
£5/£3 (children)
The BIG Base Ceilidh
Come and dance yer socks off to Judith Linton and David Scott of the Glenelvan Dance Band. The band of international fame have played for many Caledonian Societies in the Falklands, Russia, India, Venezuela, America and all over Europe. Enjoy a huge mix of old and new dances all called by Sheila McCutcheon. A chance to learn some of those less well known Ceilidh dances in Dance Base's beautiful Studio 1. Get yer glad rags on and comfy shoes and we'll see you there.
Tickets also available from 0131 225 5525 or www.dancebase.co.uk
Saturday 28 March, 8-11.30pm
£10/£8 (concession)
Edinburgh Gaelic Community Ceilidh/
Grand ceilidh featuring popular Gaelic singers and musicians to round off a year of celebration of 20 years of Gaelic-medium education in Edinburgh and 5 years of the monthly Bothan Gaelic Club. Dance the night away to the lively sound of the Black Rose Ceilidh Band. Thigibh chun chèilidh mhòr againn far am faigh sibh fàilte is furain le ceòl is craic ann am pailteas!
Tickets also available from 07906 318561 or e-mail: john@andarach.com For info: www.duneideann.net
Saturday 28 March, 8pm m d
Assembly Rooms, Music Room
Shore Poets: Open Night with Tracey Herd and Music from Sarah Northcott and Matt Smith
Join the Shore Poets for an entertaining evening of music and poetry at their annual Ceilidh Culture Open Night. For more information, including how you can book a slot, visit the Shore Poets website: www.shorepoets.org.uk
Sunday 29 March, 7.45pm m
The Lot
£3/£2 (concession)
The Wee Folk Club: Wendy Arrowsmith
Wendy is a Scottish ‘refugee' living in God's Own Country - in other words North Yorkshire! Born and raised in Scotland, Wendy has been singing for as long as she can remember. She started playing the guitar at the age of 12. In her own words ‘My own songs are influenced by the history and people of my "homes" (North Yorkshire and The West of Scotland), world events and family life.'
Club of the Year 2008 Scot Trad Music Awards. Tickets also available from 0131 557 2976
Sunday 29 March, 8:30pm m
The Royal Oak £3
The Sonic Lodge: Ceilidh Club @ The Lot with Tradlab
The Ceilidh Club @ The Lot is a regular ceilidh event which happens every Tuesday night, featuring the best of Edinburgh's ceilidh bands. The ceilidhs are open to dancers of all levels and abilities with a caller to teach the dances. The dances are held in a beautiful converted church in the heart of Edinburgh. Tradlab are a band featuring accordion, fiddle and keyboard, playing great traditional Scottish dance music and a little extra.
Tickets also available from 0131 225 9922 (The Lot) or www.edinburghceilidhs.com
Tuesday 31 March, 8pm
The Lot
£6
Edinburgh Folk Club: Mike Silver and Johnny Coppin
The combination of Johnny's piano and Mike's guitar gets right to the heart of the listener. This is music from the soul, delivered with tremendous conviction. The delight they take in playing the music is plain to see and their live shows encapsulate a blend of skill and powerful emotion. ‘Johnny Coppin is one of my favourite singers and songwriters and playing music with him is a joy and a pleasure'. Mike Silver. ‘I've been a big fan of Mike Silver and his songs for years so it's such an honour and delight to be touring together'. Johnny Coppin.
Tickets also available from 0131 650 2458.
Wednesday 1 April, 8pm m
The Pleasance Cabaret Bar
£7/£6 (concession)
Lothian Gaelic Choir
The Lothian Gaelic Choir will be holding a Gaelic singing workshop with the talented Gaelic singer and tutor Kenna Campbell. Everyone is welcome, whatever your level of Gaelic or Music. The popular workshops we held in the last two years have been excellent introductions to Gaelic singing in Edinburgh.
Tickets also available from 07818 067 524 or www.lothiangaelicchoir.org.uk
Thursday 2 April, 7.30pm
Columcille Centre
£7.50/£5 (concession)
Homage to Caledonia: Scotland and the Spanish Civil War
April 2009 represents the 70th anniversary of the end of the Spanish Civil War. It was a conflict which had an enormous effect on Scotland, and indeed Scotland on it. Daniel Gray, author of Homage to Caledonia: Scotland and the Spanish Civil War ‘An important and powerful book', Tony Benn, weaves the narrative of Caledonian involvement into a rich tapestry of Scottish songs of protest and Spain performed by The Wakes (a Glasgow Irish Folk'n Roll bunch of Hooligans and Outlaws) and guests. The combination of evocative Celtic folk and the inspiring words and deeds of those Scots who campaigned and fought for republican Spain will make for a rousing and emotional evening.
Thursday 2 April, 8pm m
The Pleasance Cabaret Bar
£7/£6 (concession)
Northern Duodji Saami Exhibition
"Duodji" is a collective term for various activities such as homecrafts, handicrafts and woodwork of the indigenous Saami people of northern Scandinavia, Finland and northwest Russia. It initially consisted of practical items and clothing created for individual use, but later on these were produced for trading and sale. "Duodji" is expressed differently from area to area and uses various materials, techniques and processes. The products are functional, mirroring the Saami way of life, environment and cultural traditions and are a part of the Saami identity. This is an exhibition of images created for the Northern Streams Festival of "Duodji" items.
For info: 0795 191 8366, e-mail: eltmsa@yahoo.co.uk or www.eltmsa.org.uk
Friday 3 April, and Saturday 4 April, 10am-6pm
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Free
Northern Streams: Friday Evening Concert - Norway and Scotland
Ante Mikkel and Inger-Biret Gaup provide a rare opportunity to hear "joik", the unique vocal tradition of the northern Saami culture from a very special father and daughter duo, while Claire Hewitt, storyteller, singer and harpist presents ‘Tales and songs of Sun, Moon, Reindeer and Hare', inspired by journeys around the Arctic Circle and Scotland. Samling, comprising Anne Sofie Linge Valdal (vocals, Norwegian flute), Naomi Elysia Harvey (vocals), Barry Reid (guitar, vocals), Kevin O'Neill (flute, vocals), Sarah MacFadyen (fiddle, vocals) combine Norwegian and Gaelic vocal music traditions in the ‘Nu-Nordic' genre!
Tickets also available from 0795 191 8366 or e-mail: eltmsa@yahoo.co.uk . For info: www.eltmsa.org.uk
* Weekend ticket (available through SSC box office 0131 556 9579) includes two evening concerts, all workshops, and entitles you to a 10% discount in the café on the day. ** Concessions include: TMSA and Scottish Storytelling Centre Network members.
Friday 3 April, 7pm m
Scottish Storytelling Centre
£10/£8 (concession) Weekend* £27/£21 (concession**)
The Twa Robs: Tannahill and Burns
Informal performances of the songs of Robert Burns and Robert Tannahill with John Morran, Wendy Weatherby, Marc Duff, Angus Lyon and Dr Fred Freeman. Tickets only available from Edinburgh Central Library and Coda Music.
For info: 0131 242 8052 or e-mail: garry.gale@edinburgh.gov.uk Sponsored by Coda, Monorail (Glasgow) and Broughton Ales
Friday 3 April, 7.30-9.15pm m
Edinburgh Central Reference Library
Free
Edinburgh International Harp Festival: Wendy Stewart and Gary West, Jopie Jonkers and Koen de Cauter
Two of the country's finest players delve into the musical traditions of Scotland and come up with Border jigs, Highland pibroch, ancient ballads and new compositions, performed with the greatest of skill on the harp and bagpipes. Jopie Jonkers & Koen de Cauter interpret a repertoire of Latin-American music such as zamba, milonga and tango from Argentina, joropo and pasaje from Venezuela, guajira and habanera from Cuba, French chanson and improvisation fuse together in an organic way.
Tickets also available from 0131 468 0593 or www.harpfestival.co.uk Sponsored by Pilgrim Harps and Bow Band
Friday 3 April, 7.30pm
Merchiston Castle School
£11/£9 (concession)
Canongate Cadjers Ceilidh Band: ‘Ceilidh' 'til you drop
Playing in their home town at Ceilidh Culture for the third successive year this is a must see fun-packed gig. The Canongate Cadjers are inspired traditional musicians, especially so when performing live on stage with their varied programme of music, song and dance. This event is suitable for all ages (from 12 years upwards) and our caller will ensure everybody will have a great time whether you know the dances or not - come and listen to the music and give it a try!
For info: www.canongatecadjers.com
Friday 3 April, 8pm f m d
The Merlin Roadhouse
£8/£6 (concession)
Edinburgh Assembly: A Weekend Dance Workshop
English Country Dance - Playford style (as danced by Jane Austen). The weekend will be for all abilities of dancers. Dance leader Simone Verheyen, from Belgium, will give instruction in basic technique, and teach a wide variety of dances. Enjoy the music of the Assembly Players. Workshop suitable for children over 10 years through to adult. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Prior booking advised as places are limited to 50.
* includes refreshments and evening dance on Sat 4 April
For info and booking form: 01555 662212 or www.nicolasbroadbridge.com
Saturday 4 April, and Sunday 5 April, 10am-5pm f d
Columcille Centre
Prices: £20 per day/£35 for weekend*
Northern Workshops
10am: Swedish tunes led by Ditte Andersson on nyckelharpa - suitable for any melody instrument. 10am: Swedish songs in choral/harmony style with Anders Göransson. 12.30pm: Saami joiking and songs for adults with Ante Mikkel and Inger-Biret Gaup - no knowledge of Saami required! 12.30pm: Danish and Shetland tunes led by Kirstine Sand (fiddle) learned from her homeland and Catriona MacDonald. Suitable for any melody instrument. 3pm: Scandinavian Dance with an emphasis on Swedish dances such as the Polska and Schottis with Kajsa Djärv and live music. 3pm: Great tunes for wind instruments with Calum Stewart (wooden flute) and Daniel Carlsson (Swedish soprano saxophone).
* Weekend ticket (available through SSC box office 0131 556 9579) includes two evening concerts, all workshops, and entitles you to a 10% discount in the café on the day. ** Concessions include: TMSA and Scottish Storytelling Centre Network members. .
Saturday 4 April, 10am, 12.30pm, 3pm
Scottish Storytelling Centre
£7/£5 (conc) per workshop or Weekend* £27/£21 (conc**)
Northern Streams: Kids Singing Workshop
A chance for children (5-10 years) to try ‘joiking' with Ante Mikkel Gaup (featured in Joanna Lumley's ‘Northern Lights' BBC programme) and his daughter Inger-Biret Gaup from Finnmark, northern Norway. Also to learn about the Saami people who inhabit northern Scandinavia, Finland and northwest Russia, whose distinctive culture has at least 10 language variations! The Saami vocal music style called ‘joiking' bears similarities to Native American music but has its own uniqueness. One of Ante's other daughters is part of the famous group Adjagas. (Workshop explanations will be in English.)
Tickets also available from 0795 191 8366 or e-mail: eltmsa@yahoo.co.uk . For info: www.eltmsa.org.uk * Children must be accompanied by an adult (accompanying adults free and welcome to join in!)
Saturday 4 April, 10.30-11.30am f w
Scottish Storytelling Centre
£5 (children)*
Northern Streams: Saturday Evening Concert - Denmark, Sweden & Scotland
Kirstine Sand (fiddle) and Marie Sønderby Larsen (piano) met at the Carl Nielsen Academy, and play a mix of traditional music and new tunes, influenced by Kirstine's time on at the Newcastle Traditional Music degree course course. Calum Stewart (wooden flute), BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician finalist, combines with Daniel Carlsson (soprano saxophone) from rural Sweden in the ‘...search for fresh, new and innovative music with a deep commitment to tradition.' Rob Adams. Top nyckelharpist, Ditte Andersson, performs a mixture of traditional Uppland and other Swedish music ‘spiced' with her own tunes and folk songs with pianist Anders Göransson.
Tickets also available from 0795 191 8366 or e-mail: eltmsa@yahoo.co.uk. For info: www.eltmsa.org.uk
* Weekend ticket (available through SSC box office 0131 556 9579) includes two evening concerts, all workshops, and entitles you to a 10% discount in the café on the day. ** Concessions include: TMSA and Scottish Storytelling Centre Network members.
Saturday 4 April, 7pm m
Scottish Storytelling Centre
£10/£8 (concession) Weekend* £27/£21 (concession**)
Ceilidh Collective: Night for Nepal Ceilidh; Robert Fish Band with David Ferrard
Walking the line between tradition and innovation with sparkling flair, The Robert Fish Band have been getting folk on their feet in Edinburgh and beyond for well over a decade. The band play and call the steps to all the well-known Scottish ceilidh dances and a few of the more unusual ones besides. Tonight's support comes from David Ferrard, the award-winning Scottish-American singer-songwriter described as a ‘a one-man transatlantic session'. We'll have our regular organic bar and raffle, with Gandolf as Master of Ceremonies. 100% of profits from this event will raise funds for Dancing Differently in Nepal and The Nepal Trust.
Saturday 4 April, 7pm m d
Roxy Art House, The Ceilidh Hall
£10/£6 (concession)/£3 (children under 12)
Sangstream: Both Sides the Tweed
Following on from previous successful concerts Sangstream is proud to be part of Ceilidh Culture again. This Edinburgh based Scots Folk Choir sings mainly Scots traditional songs. The programme will also feature the SMG Mandolin Group and visitors from Exeter: Voices in Common. Sangstream is led by Mairi Campbell and is affiliated to the Scots Music Group.
Tickets also available from 0131 449 4328 or www.sangstream.org.uk
Saturday 4 April, 7.30pm m
St Bride's Community Centre
£8/£6 (concession)
Edinburgh International Harp Festival: Meinir Heulyn, Anne Marie O'Farrell
Meinir Heulyn traces the story of Wales' national instrument and its place in the Welsh court and culture from medieval times to the present day. Wales' love affair with the harp has moved through Celtic, to triple, to pedal harp and Meinir brings this to life in playing the music of John Parry, Edward Jones and John Thomas as well as her own arrangements. Anne-Marie plays her own transcriptions of Bach cello and keyboard works for lever harp as featured on her new album Just So Bach as well as some original compositions in a variety of styles.
Tickets also available from 0131 468 0593 or www.harpfestival.co.uk Sponsored by Harps North and Mary Evans & Co Solicitors, Carmarthen
Saturday 4 April, 7.30pm m
Merchiston Castle School
£11/£9 (concession)
Edinburgh Assembly: Evening Dance
Informal dance, part of the Weekend Dance Workshop in English Dance. Music by the Assembly Players, the popular band who have released 16 great albums of English Dance music.
Tickets and booking form also available from 01555 662212 or www.nicolasbroadbridge.com
Saturday 4 April, 7.30-10pm
Columcille Centre
£5 Free to Edinburgh Assembly Workshop participants
Jacob's Pillow, Carrie On Dancing, Wailing Miserere plus guest DJ Dolphin Boy
Three Edinburgh bands come together for one evening, showcasing both modern and traditional folk music. Carrie On Dancing are a three-piece ceilidh band who play standards along with some more unusual dances. Carrie Thomas is an accomplished fiddler and caller, and is joined by Rob Minns (guitar) and Robin Hunter (drums). Seven-piece ensemble Jacob's Pillow bring their unique style of Celtic folk rock to Ceilidh Culture for the second year in a row. Wailing Miserere's ethereal acoustic folk will open the night and is sure to have you mesmerised. Together with guest DJs, it's sure to be a footstomping party!
For info: www.pillowstone.co.uk
Saturday 4 April, 8pm-3am d m
Teviot House Underground
£5/£4 (concession)
Traditional Music and Song Session
All are welcome - your chance to share songs and music in a friendly atmosphere or just come and listen. Presented by the Traditional Music & Song Association (TMSA) of Scotland Edinburgh & Lothians Branch. The TMSA exists to promote and develop interest and participation in traditional music. The local Edinburgh & Lothians Branch actively promotes Scottish traditional music by running events, ceilidhs, sessions and workshops such as the Northern Streams Festival and biennial Singers' Gathering. Why not join and show your support for Scotland's traditions by visiting www.tmsa.org.uk?
* Young people permitted up to 8pmFor info: 0795 191 8366 or e-mail: eltmsa@yahoo.co.uk
Sunday 5 April, 2pm* f m
The Royal Oak
Free
Edinburgh International Harp Festival: USAHarp Ensemble - Brandywine Harp Orchestra Director: Janet Witman
From the South East corner of Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maryland, this 16-member Celtic harp orchestra will perform a varied and vibrant concert of music, song, poetry and dance from many musical traditions. Their programme includes traditional Irish and Scottish dance tunes, Catriona McKay's The Swan LK243, items from the choral tradition, a jazzy interpretation of an old English song, music featuring the tap-dancing of one of the orchestra, and another where poetry and music are woven together in Moonlight Visitations.
Tickets also available from 0131 468 0593 or www.harpfestival.co.uk Sponsored by Edinburgh Branch, Clarsach Society and Solway Harps.
Sunday 5 April, 3-4pm m
Merchiston Castle School
£9/£7 (concession)
Edinburgh Harp Festival: Catriona Mackay, Olov Johansson, and Monika Stadler
Three brilliant performers will provide a feast of musical variety. Catriona McKay, Dundee born musician and composer and a fearless explorer on the Scottish harp, will be accompanied by Olov Johansson playing nyckelharpa. Catriona and Olov have been amazed by the sound and possibilities of these two instruments and in this concert join an exciting blend of two cultures. Monika offers a programme combining elements of classical, jazz, world and improvised music in her unique style.
Tickets also available from 0131 468 0593 or www.harpfestival.co.uk Sponsored by Salvi Harps.
Sunday 5 April, 7.30pm m
Merchiston Castle School
£11/£9 (concession)
The Wee Folk Club: Seán and Robyn Gray
Both Seán and Robyn studied at The National Centre of Excellence in Traditional Music at Plockton High School. In addition to studying traditional flute with Dougie Pincock, Seán began to develop his dynamic style of guitar accompaniment under the tutelage of Jack Evans. During her time at the Centre of Excellence Robyn developed a particular interest in the West Coast and Irish fiddle styles under the tutelage of Iain MacFarlane, while her singing voice has been described as ‘smoky' and has a rare quality that can make any song her own.
Club of the Year 2008 Scot Trad Music Awards
Sunday 5 April, 8.30pm
The Royal Oak
£3
Edinburgh International Harp Festival: Bill Taylor, Janet Bennett
Bill Taylor plays ancient music on historical harps: medieval gut-strung lap harps, Highland wire-strung clarsachs and renaissance harps with buzzing bray pins. He presents a programme of sacred melodies from the time of the Celtic Church, traditional Lowland tunes, highly elaborate pieces composed by medieval Welsh bardic harpers, and ports, the art music of the Highland clarsairs. Janet Nennett will entertain you on clarsach with both traditional and contemporary sounds and music from Northumberland southwards. Enjoy a trip round North East England from the haunting Island of Lindisfarne to the beautiful city of Durham.
Tickets also available from 0131 468 0593 or www.harpfestival.co.uk Sponsored by Northumbrian Branch, Clarsach Society.
Monday 6 April, 3-4pm m
Merchiston Castle School
£9/£7 (concession)/Free (children under 12)
Edinburgh Harp Festival: Na Caimbeulaich - The Campbells of Greepe
A special evening of music and dancing for all! Caimbeulaich a'Ghrìopa are acknowledged masters of the art of puirt-a-beul or mouth music and count an unrivalled seven Mòd Gold Medallists in their number. They are Kenna Campbell, revered singer and teacher, and her brother Seumas Campbell. They are joined by Wilma Kennedy, actress, singer and teacher, Maggie Macdonald a member of the Cliar and Inverness Gaelic Choir and musician and broadcaster, Mary Ann Kennedy.
* for 2 show package (Family Ceilidh, 8pm) Tickets also available from 0131 468 0593 or www.harpfestival.co.uk Sponsored by Bòrd na Gaidhlig.
Monday 6 April, 7-8pm
Merchiston Castle School
£10/Free (children under 12) £14/£12 *(concession)
Edinburgh International Harp Festival: Family Ceilidh with Annasach
A special evening of music and dancing for all! The Family Ceilidh is a fun event for everyone! Don't worry if you don't know the dances because Annasach has a caller who will lead you through all of them. Come and enjoy a great evening of ceilidh dancing and music with friends from across the world.
* for 2 show package (Na Caimbeulaich, 7pm)Tickets also available from 0131 468 0593 or www.harpfestival.co.uk
Monday 6 April, 8-11pm f m d
Merchiston Castle School
£10/Free (children under 12) £14/£12* (concession)
Columcille Ceilidh Band
Music workshops especially focused to be accessible to people with learning disabilites. The workshops will be led by members of Columcille Ceilidh Band - a band including and enabling musicians with learning disabilites. There will be a range of musical instruments for workshop participants to play. We will explore a range of well known ceilidh tunes plus some additional songs. A coffee break is included in the cost.
Tickets also available from 0131 446 6873 or email: alison@columcillecentre.co.uk . For info: www.columcille-centre.co.uk
Tuesday 7 April, 10.15-11.45am m w
McDonald Road Community Library
£3.50 (support workers unticketed)
Café Ceilidh
Join Linten Adie and friends from the Scots Music Group for a relaxed, open session of music and song in the Storytelling Court. Song sheets are provided, so just drop in and take part! Suitable for all ages and all abilities.
For info: 0131 556 9579 or www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk
Tuesday 7 April, 2-4pm f m
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Free
Edinburgh International Harp Festival: Afternoon Tea Concert with The Duplets
Relax and enjoy afternoon tea with the Duplets, hailed as ‘proselytisers of the revived Scottish small harp', Norman Chalmers. Two harps intertwined produce vibrant tunes and songs portraying their love of and enthusiasm for Scottish music and culture. This afternoon's entertainment will feature traditional and contemporary material including music from their recently released album, Tree of Strings. They are joined by Mod prize winner Calum Macleod, one of the new generation of talented young Scottish players. His performance will combine traditional Gaelic music and song with original contemporary material.
The Duplets: Gillan Fleetwood, Fraya Thomsen and Calum MacLeod. Tickets also available from 0131 468 0593 or www.harpfestival.co.uk Sponsored by Holywell Music Ltd.
Tuesday 7 April, 3pm
Merchiston Castle School
£10
Edinburgh International Harp Festival: Harp Nouveau
A celebration of new music composed for the harp. The first part of the programme will consist of original compositions from all of tonight's harpers and some of the music of the late Kristen Nogues, the inspirational Breton harper who took part in the first performance of Three Days. The second half of the concert will feature Mary Macmaster's 2005 Celtic Connections New Voices piece Three Days, a reflection on the life of Joel Garnier, the founder of Camac Harps. His strong, forward thinking vision of the harp and joy of life have had a lasting effect on Mary and the harp world.
Harp Nouveau: Mary MacMaster, Patsy Seddon, Corrina Hewat, Maeve Gilchrist and Donald Hay. Tickets also available from 0131 468 0593 or www.harpfestival.co.uk Sponsored by Camac Harps.
Tuesday 7 April, 7.30pm m
Merchiston Castle School
£11/£9 (concession)
The Sonic Lodge: Ceilidh Club @ The Lot with Heeliegoleerie
The Ceilidh Club @ The Lot is a regular ceilidh event which happens every Tuesday night, featuring the best of Edinburgh's ceilidh bands. The ceilidhs are open to dancers of all levels and abilities with a caller to teach the dances. The dances are held in a beautiful converted church in the heart of Edinburgh. Heeliegoleerie are an award winning band with fiddle, guitar and percussion, blending traditional and contemporary Scottish music with funk and jazz influences.
Tickets also available from 0131 225 9922 or www.edinburghceilidhs.com
Tuesday 7 April, 8pm m d
The Lot
£6
Columcille Ceilidh Band: Music Workshop
Music workshops especially focused to be accessible to people with learning disabilites. The workshops will be led by members of Columcille Ceilidh Band - a band including and enabling musicians with learning disabilites. There will be a range of musical instruments for workshop participants to play. We will explore a range of well known ceilidh tunes plus some additional songs. A coffee break is included in the cost.
Tickets also available from 0131 446 6873 or email: alison@columcillecentre.co.uk . For info: www.columcille-centre.co.uk
Wednesday 8 April, 10.15-11.45am m
Columcille Centre
£3.50 (support workers unticketed)
Edinburgh Harp Festival: Festival Orchestra and Na Clarsairean
The Festival Orchestra with members of na Clarsairean perform The Sleeping Warrior, a suite of Scottish traditional and contemporary music by Isobel Mieras, tracing the stormy and often tragic history of the nation. They are joined by the RSAMD Harp Quartet, a new and vibrant group of young talented musicians, led by their teacher, Alina Bzhezhinska. Their goal is to promote modern harp music by collaborating with living composers and arrangers. Their repertoire includes romantic music composed by The King of Thailand and jazzy arrangements of traditional songs from Eastern Europe.
Tickets also available from 0131 468 0593 or www.harpfestival.co.uk Sponsored by Holywell Music Ltd.
Wednesday 8 April, 3pm m
Merchiston Castle School
£9/£7 (concession)
Storytelling Cafe
Experience a welcoming evening of live stories and songs at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, hosted by a professional Scottish storyteller. Sit back with a drink or delicious snack from the Café-bar, or join in with a tale or song of your own.
Tickets also available from 0131 556 9579 or www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk
Wednesday 8 April, 7-9pm s
Scottish Storytelling Centre
£4
Edinburgh International Harp Festival: Draíocht
Michael and June will enthral with their unique interpretation of traditional Irish music, alongside Michael's fine compositions. Their spellbinding music has been described... ‘McCormack lures a gorgeous woody flute tone, an earthy counter to Rooney's fine-fingered harp'. Irish Times. Ailie Robertson, fronts a contemporary, dynamic trio of harp, guitar and percussion. Her eloquent, deeply expressive harp playing, guitarist Ewan Robertson's masterful control of lead, harmony and rhythm, and percussionist Paul Jennings' canny blend of sensitivity and effervescence create a three-way musical conversation ranging from soulful reflection to exciting, high octane dance tunes.
Draíocht: Michael Rooney, June McCormack Ailie Robertson, Paul Jennings and Ewan Roberston. Tickets also available from 0131 468 0593 or www.harpfestival.co.uk Sponsored by Edinburgh Branch, Clarsach Society.
Wednesday 8 April, 7.30pm m
Merchiston Castle School
£11/£9 (concession)
Edinburgh Folk Club: Kieran Halpin and Jimmy Smith
With 17 albums and a DVD Live in Canberra under his belt, Kieran Halpin is not only one of the most prolific but also one of the finest singer songwriters of his generation - here for the Edinburgh premier of his new musical partnership with the Dublin born Jimmy Smith on guitar.
Wednesday 8 April, 8pm
The Pleasance Cabaret Bar
£7/£6 (concession)
The Boys' Brigade 125th Anniversary Concert
Pipe Bands have been a discipline in the Boys' Brigade for over a century. Many fine pipers and drummers have gone through the ranks and onto solo competition and band work. The programme will include bandsmen past and present and guest piper, Edinburgh born Iain Speirs, double gold medallist, triple silver chanter winner and winner of other major events and trophies. The programme promises mini-band and solo piping of quality.
Tickets also available from Bob Lawson: 0131 332 1961, boblawson20@hotmail.com , or Stewart Braby: 0131 665 7294
Thursday 9 April, 7pm m
The Royal Scot Club
£5
Ceilidh Collective: Edinmbira, Yvonne Burgess and the Jammies
Sample the sounds of our ancestors... Music and song from Edinmbira, Edinburgh-based Zimbawean - Scottish fusion band. They will be complemented by Yvonne Burgess, singing both traditional Scottish songs and songs from Zimbabwe, where Yvonne lived for several years. Zimbabwe's mbira is the primary traditional instrument of the Zezuru tribes of the Shona people, and has been played for over 1,000 years. You can find out more and even join a local mbira group in Edinburgh - just come along and be taken away on a new magical journey.
Tickets also available from 07946 226208 (Robin) or www.ceilidhcollective.org.uk
Thursday 9 April, 8-10pm m
Roxy Art House, The Bowery
£6/£4 (concession)
Storytelling in Scots
Come into the chimley-lug o the guid Scots tongue at this creative workshop, and gether new stories an sperks o' inspiration. Led by Scottish Borders storyteller and Scots translator James Spence, this half-day interactive session will open a window onto Scots stories, where to find them and how to start telling them.
* Scottish Storytelling Network members only. Includes refreshments. Book in advance. Tickets also available from 0131 556 9579 or www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk
Friday 10 April, 10am-1pm w s
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Adult £16/£12 (concession)
The Story and the Song
Add another dimension to your storytelling - sing. No need to have a great voice or be a singer already, we look after that for you. All you need is to WANT to incorporate song into stories in a natural way. The environment will be warm and supportive, using the accumulated talents of the group in a non-daunting manner. Led by singer and storyteller, Nancy Nicolson.
* Scottish Storytelling Network members only. Includes refreshments. Book in advance. Tickets also available from 0131 556 9579 or www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk
Friday 10 April, 2-5pm w s
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Adult £16/ £12 (concession)*
The Sonic Lodge: Ceilidh Club @ The South Hall with Teannaich
The Ceilidh Club @ The South Hall is Edinburgh's biggest and best regular ceilidh featuring Rock ceilidh band Teannaich. With plenty of dance space and music that will keep you on your toes all night its one not to miss. Get your tickets early as these ceilidhs sell out quickly!
Tickets also available from www.edinburghceilidhs.com or Ticket Scotland, Rose Street.
Friday 10 April, 7.30pm m d
Pollock Halls, The South Halls
£8/£6 (concession)
Canongate Cadjers Ceilidh Band: ‘Ceilidh' 'til you drop
Playing in their home town at Ceilidh Culture for the third successive year this is a must see fun-packed gig. The Canongate Cadjers are inspired traditional musicians, especially so when performing live on stage with their varied programme of music, song and dance. This event is suitable for all ages (from 12 years upwards) and our caller will ensure everybody will have a great time whether you know the dances or not - come and listen to the music and give it a try!
Friday 10 April, 8pm
The Merlin Roadhouse
£8/£6 (concession)
or info: www.canongatecadjers.com
Starting with Stories
A fun and interactive workshop in telling stories, making the most of your own natural skills. The session will explore techniques for ‘learning' a story, making it your own and developing your own style, and how to select and source stories - all helping to boost your confidence in oral storytelling! Bring a story with you that you would like to work on for the afternoon session. Led by Bea Ferguson.
* Scottish Storytelling Network members only. Includes refreshments. Tickets also available from 0131 556 9579 or www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk
Saturday 11 April, 10.30am-4.30pm w s
Scottish Storytelling Centre
£30/£25 (concession)*
Scots Music Group: Big Seat by the Fire
Thinking you'd like to try your hand at performing, but don't know how/where to get started!? This is your big chance to have a shot in the Big Seat by the Fire.
If you'd like to take part then get in touch with Ros Gasson: 0131 555 7668 or ros.gasson@scotsmusic.org by 5 April.
Sunday 12 April, 7.15pm m
St George's West
£1
The Wee Folk Club: Phil Hare
Phil Hare is widely regarded as one of the finest and most distinctive acoustic guitarists working on the current folk music circuit. Ian Wells of the Daily Telegraph wrote: ‘If folk song is history from underneath, then Phil's songs are today's broadsides'. The New York based magazine Dirty Linen wrote: ‘The songs are British, maybe even Northern English, but this guy is clearly a world class player'.
Club of the Year 2008 Scot Trad Music Awards
Sunday 12 April, 8.30pm
The Royal Oak
£3
Columcille Ceilidh Band: Music Workshop
Music workshops especially focused to be accessible to people with learning disabilites. The workshops will be led by members of Columcille Ceilidh Band - a band including and enabling musicians with learning disabilites. There will be a range of musical instruments for workshop participants to play. We will explore a range of well known ceilidh tunes plus some additional songs. A coffee break is included in the cost.
Tickets also available from 0131 446 6873 or email: alison@columcillecentre.co.uk . For info: www.columcille-centre.co.uk
Tuesday 14 April, 10.15-11.45am m
McDonald Road Community Library
£3.50 (support workers unticketed)
The Sonic Lodge: Ceilidh Club @ The Lot with Jimi Shandrix Experience
The Ceilidh Club @ The Lot is a regular ceilidh event which happens every Tuesday night, featuring the best of Edinburgh's ceilidh bands. The ceilidhs are open to dancers of all levels and abilities with a caller to teach the dances. The dances are held in a beautiful converted church in the heart of Edinburgh. The Jimi Shandrix experience are one of Edinburgh's most popular ceilidh bands, featuring the legendary accordionist Sandy Breechin along with guitar and fiddle, and essential experience for any ceilidh dancer.
Tickets also available from 0131 225 9922 or www.edinburghceilidhs.com
Tuesday 14 April, 8pm m d
The Lot
£6
Columcille Ceilidh Band: Music Workshop
Music workshops especially focused to be accessible to people with learning disabilites. The workshops will be led by members of Columcille Ceilidh Band - a band including and enabling musicians with learning disabilites. There will be a range of musical instruments for workshop participants to play. We will explore a range of well known ceilidh tunes plus some additional songs. A coffee break is included in the cost.
Tickets also available from 0131 446 6873 or email: alison@columcillecentre.co.uk . For info: www.columcille-centre.co.uk
Wednesday 15 April, 10.15-11.45am m
Columcille Centre
£3.50 (support workers unticketed)
Central Scotland Circle Dance: International Circle Dance Ceilidh
A ceilidh with an international flavour. Dancing in a circle to live music from the Balkans, Russia, the Middle East to name but a few, as well as from Scotland. Circle Dancing is a community form of dance which encourages people to learn about the cultures of many countries, including our own, through music and dance. You don't need a partner and all dances will be called. All ages and abilities welcome. Time for tea and coffee and a chat at the break.
For info: 01360 770497, e-mail: jenny.oswald@googlemail.com or www.cscd.org.uk
Wednesday 15 April, 1-4pm f m d
St George's West
£8/£6 (concession) (Accompanied children free)
Mairi Campbell
Awarded Scots Singer of the Year at the 2007 Scots Trad Music Awards, and the accolade of Female Musician of the Year by LiveIreland, Mairi reached world-wide public attention this year when featured on the soundtrack of Sex and the City, singing the original melody of Burns' Auld Lang Syne. Writing with her long-term collaborator David Francis, their song Smile or Cry was one of the winners of the Burnsong competition in 2007. This evening features their new songs, in a new line-up of Mairi (voice) and a first-rate rhythm section. ‘Mairi Campbell's voice is one of the great sounds of Scottish folk music today.' The Scotsman.
* 2 ticket deal for this and The Cast, 16 April.
Wednesday 15 April, 8pm m
The Lot
£8/£6 (concession) £12/£10* (concession)
Edinburgh Folk Club: Sarah-Jane Summers Trio
Sarah-Jane Summers is originally from Inverness, and was taught by the great Donald Riddell. As well as a lasting love of Highland fiddle music, Sarah-Jane is very interested in Scandinavian music, often performing with Fribo. Here, she is in the fine company of Ewan MacPherson (guitar, mandolin) and Duncan Lyall (double bass).
Wednesday 15 April, 8pm m
The Pleasance Cabaret Bar
£7/£6 (concession)
The Cast
Following last year's full house at the Lot, Mairi Campbell and David Francis return with another evening of their distinctive music, mixing traditional songs, Burns, fiddle tunes and their own songs. ‘Their music is like the skies of Scotland, deep blue, contrasted with clouds, the colours cool.' Il Gazettino (Italy). ‘This music is deeply rooted in the tradition and the elements...they manage to evoke a very particular sense of timelessness.' The Scotsman.
2 ticket deal for this and Mairi Campbell, 15 April.
Thursday 16 April, 8pm m
The Lot
£8/£6 (concession) £12/£10* (concession)
Columcille Ceilidh Band: Music Workshop
Music workshops especially focused to be accessible to people with learning disabilites. The workshops will be led by members of Columcille Ceilidh Band - a band including and enabling musicians with learning disabilites. There will be a range of musical instruments for workshop participants to play. We will explore a range of well known ceilidh tunes plus some additional songs. A coffee break is included in the cost.
Tickets also available from 0131 446 6873 or email: alison@columcillecentre.co.uk . For info: www.columcille-centre.co.uk
T Friday 17 April, 10.15-11.45am
Westerhailes Library
£3.50 (support workers unticketed)
Learn to play Bagpipes Workshop with Louise Marshall Millington
Learn to play the bagpipes/chanter and, above all, have fun! Open to adults and children of all ages. Established piper and bagpipe tutor Louise Marshall Millington will have chanters available to have a go, and will run through embellishments as well as timing, technique and maintenance required to master the Great Highland Bagpipe! There will also be a piping display from Louise. Louise is a bagpipe tutor with the City of Edinburgh Council, The Scots Music Group and The Sunshine on Leith Pipes & Samba Band, and is also the piper and whistle player with award-winning Celtic rock band Cantara.
For info: www.pipeforscotland.com
Friday 17 April, 11am-12noon
The Drill Hall
£5/£2.50 (children and concession)
Sharon Shannon Big Band featuring Shane MacGowan
Following on from the success of The Galway Girl single (used in the Magners Cider ad just before Christmas) and ‘Best of' compilation, Sharon Shannon returns to Edinburgh this spring for a special show with her big band featuring the legendary Shane MacGowan. The last Sharon Shannon concert in November 2008 was a complete sell out success, as was her appearance at Celtic Connections in January. With the shows clocking in over the 2 hour mark this is going to be a Friday night to remember for drinking, for singing and for indulgence in one of the greatest pairings of Irish artists you've ever danced your socks off too.
Friday 17 April, 7pm (doors)
£18.50
Kim Richey with guest Joan Coffey
Kim Richey has been plying her brand of insightful song craft since arriving in Nashville in the early ‘90s. With a wide stylistic range - she's written or co-written songs for Mary Chapin Carpenter, Trisha Yearwood and James Morrison. She has made four acclaimed solo albums including Glimmer and Rise. Her music has been featured in films and television shows such as Angel, Alias and Grey's Anatomy.
Tickets also available from www.ticketweb.co.uk For info: www.kimrichey.com
Friday 17 April, 7.30pm m
The Pleasance Cabaret Bar
£12 plus booking fee
Scottish Traditional Music: Harp, Cello and Song with Cheyenne Brown and Seylan Baxter
The combination of Cheyenne Brown's exuberant and sensitive harp playing, Seylan Baxter's mellow natural singing and her creatively atmospheric cello playing forms rich and varied musical textures with a distinctive style. Whether in slow airs, jigs and reels or traditional songs Cheyenne and Seylan bring precision and empathy to their quirky, innovative arrangements. Their energetic performances and warm stage presence dispel any stereotypes of stuffy instrumentalists and prove the effectiveness of this unusual line up.
For info: www.celloharp.com
Friday 17 April, 8pm m
The Lot
£7/£6 (concession)
Ceilidh Collective: Unity Ceilidh; Hud Yer Wheesht
Hud Yer Wheesht's funky feel-good music and improvisations will shove you around the dance floor. More complicated dances will be called if necessary - watch out for the totally off-the-wall Swedish Masquerade, you'll really need your balance. They will be supported by Gandolf our MC, local musicians and a full licensed organic bar including snacks and juices. This is a ceilidh collective event with 100% of profits going to the Unity Centre in Glasgow providing practical solidarity and support for asylum seekers.
Tickets also available from 07946 226208 (Robin) or www.ceilidhcollective.org.uk
Saturday 18 April, 7pm m d
Roxy Art House, The Ceilidh Hall
£10/£6 (concession)/£3 (children under 12)
Kim Edgar, Yvonne Lyon, David Ferrard
Following sell-out performances in 2008, three of Scotland's brightest emerging songwriters collaborate to present music from their latest albums, each named ‘Album Of The Week' by BBC Radio Scotland's Iain Anderson. This fusion beautifully showcases their strong creative melodies, compelling storytelling and emotive harmonies for an eclectic evening of exciting new songwriting. ‘A life affirming experience!' Iain Anderson, BBC Radio Scotland. ‘Sweet, crystal vocals.' Glasgow Evening Times. ‘Very moving, literate, allusive and expressively sung.' Scotland On Sunday.
For info: www.kimedgar.com , www.yvonnelyonmusic.com , www.davidferrard.com
Saturday 18 April, 8pm m
The Lot
£8/£6 (concession)
