INSIDE:

Hug & Pint Weekend :: TradFest :: T Break :: Brew at the Bog :: HebCelt :: Edinburgh Beer Festival :: Solas :: Shuffle Isles :: Summer Isles ..... PLUS our 4 page Scottish music festival listings

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Festivals!

Scotland's Music

the Scottish music festival supplement from MUSIC NEWS Scotland

Singer songwriter Bella Gaffney (pictured) won the CalMac Culture

competition for a prestigious HebCelt stage slot - read all about it on page 11

www.calmac.co.uk/music

photo by Rachel Kennan

page 2 music news scotland - FESTIVALS!

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www.obanlive.com tweet @ https://twitter.com/OBANLIVE fb @ www.facebook.com/obanlive

www.tracscotland.org/tradfest

web @ http://goo.gl/mZlMi1 fb @ www.facebook.com/tradfestedinburgh

buy tickets now @ www.hebceltfest.com/booking/ fb @ www.facebook.com/HebCelt

www.hebceltfest.com

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The Hug and Pint has announced it's first ever mini-festival on 7-8 May. The First Big Weekend at The Hug and Pint is a 2 day party with some of their favourite electronic artists, performance and DJs, as well as some special vegan surprises from the pan-asian kitchen.

London's Bamboo (Upset! The Rhythm) are travelling up to play their first ever Glasgow performance on Saturday 7 May, with local new and long term party starters such as Joe Howe (Sound Pellegrino), Apostille (Night School), Babe and Clip Art (Errors) joining them on the roster. The lineup will also include more experimental performative offerings from KRK (Skullwizard, Fem Bitch Nation), and Toby Webster LTD (The Modern Institute), who will be playing through interactive livestream all the way from Leipzig, as well as Brother Michelle's (LYLO) debut performance. As well as early bird tickets, there will be 1 very limited edition super early bird weekend ticket available for £1. Early bird weekend tickets are £13, EB day tickets £7. Regular weekend tickets are £15, day tickets £9.

www.thehugandpint.com https://twitter.com/thehugandpint www.facebook.com/TheHugandPint

Big Weekend @ Hug & Pint

Glasgow : 7-8 May : www.thehugandpint.com

web @ www.scottishmusiccentre.com fb @ www.facebook.com/scottishmusiccentre plus other links @ www.musicplus.org.uk + www.hittheroad.org.uk

www.scottishmusiccentre.com/services/audio-services/

info@scottishmusiccentre.com

Big Weekend tickets @ www.thehugandpint.com/whats-on/events/7-may-16-the-first-big-weekend-the-hug-and-pint/

SATURDAY:

Joe Howe Bamboo Babe Toby Webster LTD Luar Matrix Brother Michelle DJ Hannan + Murray BRB

SUNDAY:

Apostille Clip Art Stern Lecture Raza Arm Watches Fingers Cru Servers KRK DJ Lisa Life

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https://twitter.com/_RiverSideRock

www.facebook.com/Riverside-Rock-707018062649643

www.riversiderock.co.uk

tickets @ http://www.riversiderock.co.uk/tickets.html fb @ www.facebook.com/Riverside-Rock-707018062649643 tweet @ https://twitter.com/_RiverSideRock

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fb @ www.facebook.com/orkneyfolkfestival tweet @ https://twitter.com/OrkneyFolkFest

www.orkneyfolkfestival.com

Tradition goes live in Edinburgh, when the fourth annual showcase of Traditional Arts and Culture - better known as TradFest! - takes place in Scotland’s capital from Wednesday 27 April to Sunday 8 May.

TradFest Edinburgh Dùn Èideann returns as Edinburgh’s only multi-arts festival dedicated to Scottish traditional folk arts, showcasing culture, live. Rooted in the past yet intrinsically connected to the present, Scottish and international artists will combine with local performers for an exciting fortnight of music, storytelling, dance, crafts, talks, walks, workshops and folk film.

With over 90 events across 25 venues, TradFest ignites the city with celebrations of May Day and Beltane, showcasing ancestry with vibrant cultural creativity. As TRACS Director Donald Smith explains: "The foundation of Scotland's cultural heritage and national identity is traditional arts. Communities are bound by the stories and music that surround them. TradFest offers an explosion of culture to ensure that this history is kept alive and that the traditional arts continue to be given a platform, allowing them to flourish and shape Scotland's culture for future generations. We’ve packed so much into the 12 days allowing for a great time to celebrate, enjoy and get involved with our traditional arts.” Performers from Norway, Sweden, America, France, England and Ireland will join top Scottish talent, with the programme offering something for everyone. The line-up also provides a great opportunity to place the

spotlight on some of Edinburgh’s most iconic and unusual locations, with the Scottish Storytelling Centre – home of Scotland’s Culture – being the hub for the Festival.

Venues include Calton Hill, Arthur’s Seat, The Pleasance, The Caves, the Scottish Storytelling Centre, Filmhouse, Queens Hall, Summerhall, Dance Base and Blackwell’s. The TradFest Trail highlights craft shops, galleries, pub sessions, instrument makers, bookshops, restaurants and cafes that help visitors experience Scotland’s culture and the folk arts. This year a TradFest Trail walking tour has also been added to the TradFest mix, led by Old Town expert storyteller Stuart McHardy.

Amongst the host of local and international talent appearing on this year’s programme are Nordic Fiddlers Bloc, Ewan McLennan, Gerda Stevenson, Moishe’s Bagel, Dàimh, Niteworks, Gol, Nuala Kennedy Band, Talisk, Siobhan Miller, Sheesham and Lotus & ‘Son, Ewan McLennan, Martin Simpson, Griogair’s Ghettocroft and Mairi Campbell’s Pulse, along with songsters, storytellers and dancers to enjoy and discover, including a special appearance by Artie Trezise sharing Trad

tales and tunes for youngsters.

Those wanting to find out more about the roots of Scottish culture will be interested in the Treasure Troves of Scottish Tradition series at the National Library of Scotland. A fantastic collective of talent have also come together from Dumfries and Galloway – Emily Smith, Robyn Stapleton, Aaron Jones, Claire Mann, Wendy Stewart, Jamie McLennan and narrator Tom Pow – to evocatively piece together the forgotten songs of William Macmath, giving them new life and showcasing how historically significant the collection is to Scotland’s music heritage.

Box Office: You can buy and collect tickets in person at TradFest Box Office: Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street, EH1 1SR or by telephone 0131 556 9579. The majority of tickets are available at the Scottish Storytelling Centre Box Office. Some events are only available to purchase at other venues, please follow individual listings details:

www.tracscotland.org/festivals/tradfest https://twitter.com/TradFestEd www.facebook.com/tradfestedinburgh

It's Edinburgh - It's April - so it must be

TRADFEST 2016

TradFest ticket details @ www.tracscotland.org/festivals/tradfest/events

Siobhan Miller : www.facebook.com/SiobhanMiller

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With just hours to go until Tennent’s Lager close T Break for entries, unsigned acts - who have what it takes to showcase their music to fans and music industry experts alike on the T Break Stage at T in the Park this summer – are running out of time! Enter now at www.tennents.com/tbreak

Each year Tennent’s Lager offer 16 of the countries freshest unsigned acts the chance to join some of the world’s biggest artists, on the T in the Park bill but time is running out! Unsigned acts who think they have what it takes to play the T Break Stage have only one week left before entry closes at midnight on Friday 8th April 2016.

A judging panel of 16 of Scotland’s most respected and influential music industry experts will then listen to each demo before selecting the final 16 acts who will go on to join the line-up for T in the Park 2016 and land themselves a highly coveted slot on the T Break Stage.

Some of the world’s biggest acts already confirmed for T in the Park 2016 over 8–10 July, include The Stone Roses, Calvin Harris, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Disclosure, Bastille and LCD Soundsystem, plus many more!

Nicola Cooper, Sponsorship and Events Executive for Tennent’s Lager, said: “We’ve

had a great response to the T Break call for entries so far, bands from a whole host of genres are sending in their tracks, it’s really exciting for us to see the diversity of talent coming through Scotland’s unsigned music scene. We can’t wait to see who the judges choose for this year’s line-up and, to any unsigned musicians who haven’t applied already I would encourage them to apply now on the T Break website, we want to hear you!”

T Break provides artists with an unrivalled platform to showcase their talent and has proved to be a springboard for a number of previous T Break bands including Tijuana Bibles, Be Charlotte, Model Aeroplanes, Honeyblood, and Hector Bizerk, to name but a few.

Gerry Cinnamon from the T Break 2015 line-up said: “Where else can you do this, you just need to go for it! It's the only show in town, there's no one else who actually gives unsigned bands the opportunities to get on a big stage at a festival. The fact that they've carried so many big artists like Biffy. They're amazing."

Entrants must be aged 18 or over, live in Scotland, and must be currently unsigned and recording original material. T Break is open to artists of every genre. Bands and solo artists can submit their demos via the T Break website. Demos must be submitted before the deadline of midnight on Friday 8 April.

Tennent’s will announce the T Break Stage line-up in May.

T Break was launched by Tennent’s 21 years ago, in 1996 and has been uncovering Scotland’s freshest unsigned talent and giving them a platform to showcase their music on the T Break Stage at T in the Park ever since.

Each year, 16 bands are hand-picked from over a thousand entries by a panel of Scotland’s industry experts and given the chance to play

the T Break Stage at T in the Park, the place to catch Scotland’s best new music

Tennent’s work with a range of key music industry partners to provide support for emerging Scottish talent:

DF Concerts & Events - Organisers of T in the Park, DF Concerts and Events are longstanding partners of T Break and are Scotland’s largest promoter and events company. They provide essential industry support and are involved in the judging process for T Break.

PRS for Music - PRS for Music offer invaluable advice to T Break acts on artists’ rights and the world of music publishing.

Tenement TV - Tenement TV is a multimedia music platform specialising in cinematic live sessions with some of the world’s hottest up and coming acts - will be capturing the highlights from the T Break Stage this summer. Using their expertise in creative online journalism to bring T Break to the attention of their global online audience.

www.tennents.com/tbreak www.facebook.com/TennentsTBreak

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Unsigned Acts!! Midnight on 8 April is deadline for T Break Enter For The Chance To Play The T Break Stage At T In The Park

Enter T Break NOW @ www.tennents.com/tbreak

web @ http://stowedoutfestival.org.uk/ fb @ www.facebook.com/stowedoutfestival

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the mns collection ….

Read the three MNS digital publications

from links at ..

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Brew at the Bog organisers have announced that Idlewild will headline the main stage at this year's ultimate boutique festival experience in Scotland. Set within the stunning backdrop of the Scottish highlands, Idlewild will top the bill for Brew at the Bog 2016, as the event showcases the very best in Scottish music, comedy, art and brew. Taking place over 3-4 June the festival boasts a stellar line-up of Scottish music with acts including C Duncan, The LaFontaines, KLOË and White joining Idlewild across the two day highland fling. Idlewild guitarist Rod Jones, said: "We've played many festivals over the last 20 years, but we can't wait for this one. Inverness is a city we have always enjoyed playing in and the band have had a great relationship creatively with the highlands of Scotland. "We are delighted to return to the stage and headline at Brew at the Bog, with the crowd set for a good show! There will be a great mix of old and new material and who knows, maybe an unreleased new track or two may get road tested before the new album next year." Held on Bogbain Farm for the fourth year running,

Brew at the Bog 2016 features exciting additions to its stellar musical line-up including the Bob's Blunda Comedy Bus, multiple art installations from some of Scotland's leading contemporary artists and a 24ft outdoor cinema screen. Located just a hop, skip and a brew from the centre of Inverness, the event is one of the UK's most northerly. Fest-goers can look forward to two stages of music, four bars, and 24 hours of live music at Bogbain Farm. Festival founder Yvonne Murray said, "The weekend is all about showcasing the finest Scottish music, comedy and art. Idlewild are the perfect fit for topping the bill at this year's festival and we can't wait for the band to bring down the roof on the closing night for Brew at the Bog 2016. " Tickets, priced from £65.00, are available on the Skiddle weblink above. Weekend ticket + camping from £65 pp. Friday 1:30pm – Midnight, Saturday 12noon – Midnight www.brewatthebog.com https://twitter.com/BrewBog www.facebook.com/brewbog

Brew at the Bog fans set for Highland fling with Idlewild 3,000 expected to go wild at Scotland's most northerly boutique festival Inverness :: 3-4 June :: www.brewatthebog.com

Brew at the Bog tickets @ www.skiddle.com/festivals/Brew-at-the-Bog/?sktag=12774

Idlewild : www.facebook.com/IdlewildTheBand

page 10 music news scotland - FESTIVALS!

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tickets @ www.musicglue.com/yellowroom-music fb @ www.facebook.com/doghouseroses

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Yorkshire singer songwriter Bella Gaffney has won a prestigious stage slot in front of an international audience at the 21st Hebridean Celtic Festival this summer.

Bella, 22, from Bradford, was one of nine finalists in the CalMac Culture Music contest, run by ferry company Caledonian MacBrayne. Each finalist performed two acoustic tracks to judges and a live audience at King Tut’s in Glasgow with a chance of securing a spot at one of nine Scottish festivals, including HebCelt.

Bella will now play at the award-winning festival, which will run from 13-16 July in Stornoway in the island of Lewis, and will be headlined by Runrig, Red Hot Chilli Pipers and Hayseed Dixie. Other acts already confirmed include Julie Fowlis, Astrid, King Creosote, John McCusker and Breabach.

This year’s main arena line-up also includes Bella and the Bear, 12 months after securing a slot on the Islands Stage as finalists in CalMac Culture Music 2015.

The CalMac Culture Music contest is aimed at finding the best amateur singers and musicians. Entrants submitted a video of a performance of an original piece of music to YouTube and then encouraged fans to view and like the video.

Bella has been singing since the age of 15 and plays regularly at a variety of clubs, festivals, and private functions in Yorkshire and Nottingham where she studied. She recently supported Cara Dillon at the Saltaire Live folk and Celtic music event in Bradford.

She secured her place at the CalMac Culture Music final after being a finalist in the Danny Kyle open stage competition at Celtic Connections.

Bella said: “It’s fantastic. Out of all the festivals, I had my eye on HebCelt. When I was in college Julie Fowlis’ Touch the Sky from (the Disney film) Brave was a firm favourite among me and my friends.

“I am delighted to have taken part in the CalMac Culture Music event and to have played at the prestigious King Tut’s in Glasgow. It was a real privilege and even more so to be selected for

this year’s HebCelt."

Caroline Maclennan, HebCelt’s director and a judge at the contest, said: “We are delighted to welcome Bella to the festival where I know she will be a hit with our audience. She has played at a number of festivals before, so we are looking forward to seeing her making her debut at HebCelt.

“Once again the standard of entries in this competition was extremely high and demonstrated the wealth of talent around. HebCelt is keen to encourage emerging musicians and give them a platform and this is an ideal way of providing support.”

CalMac Ferries is a long-time supporter of HebCelt and has confirmed it is to sponsor the event again later this year.

Peter Griffiths, Marketing Manager for CalMac, said: "We are pleased to continue our long-running support of HebCelt.

“The 2016 line-up looks particularly exciting for the festival's 21st birthday and we are proud to have played our part over the years. I have no doubt it will be another great event."

HebCelt has grown from a small event attracting less than 1,000 fans, to an international showpiece for roots, Celtic and traditional music, generating more than £20 million for the local economy over two decades.

Last year, it marked its 20th anniversary by

hosting its biggest number of live performances ever with more than 50 hours of music and arts events staged in the main arena in the grounds of Lews Castle, as well as An Lanntair arts centre in the town centre and other venues in rural areas.

www.hebceltfest.com https://twitter.com/hebcelt www.facebook.com/HebCelt

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HebCelt Stage Awaits Calmac Culture Music Winner Bella

Stornoway, Lewis : 13-16 July : www.hebceltfest.com

HebCelt tickets @ www.hebceltfest.com/booking/

Bella Gaffney (left) with HebCelt director Caroline Maclennan

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Stewart Brewing has launched “Edinburgh Beer Festival” Midlothian and the city’s newest dedicated craft beer festival. The event will take place from 3pm-11pm on 16 April at Stewart’s brewery in Loanhead [just off the bypass near Ikea] and showcase a selection of delectable craft beers, handmade food and three burgeoning Edinburgh bands. Adding to both Edinburgh’s rich festival scene and its strong beer heritage, Stewart Brewing’s ''Edinburgh Beer Festival' will focus on innovative beers and leading breweries. Stewart’s brewers are joining forces with the Lake District’s Hawkshead, Stirlingshire’s Fallen and Oregon’s Crux Fermentation Project to brew up a couple of distinctive collabs. Fill your stomach between tipples with pizza hot from Big Blu’s wood burner, pulled pork and ‘slaw rolls from Jones & Son and magnificent burgers and veggie delights from Fresh rEVOLution. There’ll also be gluten free beer and gluten free food available. But Edinburgh Beer Festival is about more than just eating and drinking. For entertainment, enjoy some storming indie, rock and blues tunes from Leith bands The Alibis and Fight, Robots! Fight! whilst sipping a schooner of hop-forward IPA. Or sit back with a silky smooth stout and take in Mt Doubt’s gentle, rhythmic mix of guitars and waves of indie pop harmonies that both delight and put you in your place. Formed in January last year by Edinburgh-based Leo Bargery, up and coming Mt Doubt are releasing their next single, “Afterglow,” on 30 April via Scottish Fiction.

The Alibis have been playing together since 2006 in various incarnations lead by singer Gareth Fitzgerald. An homage to ‘90s indie, pop and rock, they blend toe-tapping melodies and catchy guitar hooks into irresistible choruses that’ll have you singing along from your first listen. The four piece released their debut album “Now We’re Even” last year. Scottish three man band Fight, Robots! Fight! started out early in 2015 and released their debut eponymous EP later in the year. Their stripped back sound is brought to life by frontman Neil Christopher’s raw bluesy guitar riffs and compelling, urgent vocals, embedded within complex drum beats and driving bass

lines. Accessible rock without being mainstream, just like it should be. Like the sound of what you’re reading? Hear it in the flesh! Stewart’s are keen to promote Edinburgh Beer Festival to locals and are offering a discounted ticket price of £12.50 to Midlothian residents in postcodes EH18, EH19, EH20 and EH23-26. Regular tickets are priced at £15. Buy them online, in person from Stewart’s brewery shop on the link above or on Eventbrite and join Stewart’s in kicking off festival season in style this April. www.stewartbrewing.co.uk https://twitter.com/StewartBrewing www.facebook.com/Stewart-Brewing-122331884454861

Stewart Brewing launch Edinburgh Beer Festival with Three Upcoming Local Bands

Loanhead, Midlothian: 16 April : www.stewartbrewing.co.uk

Edinburgh Beer Festival tickets @ http://edinburghbeerfestival.eventbrite.co.uk

weekend tickets available now @ www.ullapoolguitarfestival.com fb @ www.facebook.com/pages/The-Ullapool-Guitar-Festival/201560546591552

The Alibis : www.thealibis.co.uk

photo by Andy Kelly

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Solas Festival is an all-age arts festival held in Perthshire from 17 to 19 June, with hip-hop, electro loops and some of the finest folk and roots music you’ll find in a Scottish field: a rich mix of traditions, talents and tastes. Expect an unusual mix of art, music, theatre, comedy, debate and soul-searching.

The programme also makes space for challenging debate with activists, writers and thinkers from across the political, cultural and religious spectrum. Solas Festival offers a creative and entertaining programme for festival-goers of all ages in a safe environment.

The Solas Festival 2016 line-up so far hosts luminaries of the alt-folk, world and roots scenes such as

Skerryvore, Karine Polwart, Sam Lee & Friends, Blue Rose Code, Sultans of String, Zoë Bestel, Miss Irenie Rose, Roseanne Reid, MacGillivray, Hannah Fisher and Sorren MacLean.

Add to the mix cinematic European folklore from A New International; the husky lyricism of The Jellyman’s Daughter; alt-folk singer-songwriter Beerjacket and acoustic duo Bella and the Bear.

Solus will also be showcasing the best in new hip-hop and electro. Stanley Odd return alongside the sample-loving CARBS and Boho electro of Bdy_Prts. Look out for an exclusive set from Louie and the Lochbacks; featuring Hector Bizerk’s Louie Bhoy.

There will be plenty for families over the weekend. The Little Fawn puppet caravan is back by popular demand, and you can try your hand at circus skills, performance workshops with Sarah Rose Graber, as well as your annual visit to The Bield animals. Lots more family

shows still to be announced, and something special lined up for Father’s Day!

www.solasfestival.co.uk https://twitter.com/solasfestival www.facebook.com/SolasFestival

Hip-hop, electro loops, folk & roots at Solus

The Bield at Blackruthven, Perthshire : 17-19 June : www.solasfestival.co.uk

Solus tickets @ www.solasfestival.co.uk/festival-info/tickets/

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Make your music headline news with Deborah Welsh Commercial Media

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• Musical Theatre • Festivals • Concerts • Tours • Album Releases

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Shuffle Down Returns To Larbert's Dobbie Hall

Larbert (nr Falkirk) : 7 May : www.shuffledown.co.uk

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Shuffle Down tickets @ www.shuffledown.co.uk/tickets

After a hugely successful debut year the Shuffle Down Festival will return to the Dobbie Hall in Larbert on 7 May. Last year the event sold out and the organisers are aiming to bring a bigger and better event to the town this year.

The main Dobbie Hall stage plays host to several live acts throughout the day with a 2nd stage upstairs providing more live and electronic music.

Main Stage London folk rock band Treetop Flyers, Glasgow ska giants Esperanza, Psychedelic rock trio Miracle Glass Company, Northern Indie-folk starlet Best Girl Athlete, London alt-rock collective Yossarian, members of King Creosote’s band’s new project Emporium, AMiF Newcomer Award winners The Nickajack Men, Scottish hip hop newcomer Sam Main and acoustic artist Sarah Em.

2nd Stage Front woman of Ladytron Marnie, Ambient Electronica star Dextro, Acid duo ARC/WLF and Manchester’s Paddy Steer.

As well as the music there will be more Arts & Crafts stalls, The Shuffle Lounge, Prize Raffle and several bars around the building. Local brewery Tryst will be hosting their own bar this year and will be selling a rare batch of their “Dobbie Shuffle” ale which will be brewed especially for the event! Outside will be a Live Street Food Tent selling gourmet sausages, venison burgers and lots more with produce supplied by local butchers R. Brown & Sons. The Charity Last year the event raised almost £5000 for MND Scotland and this year’s chosen

charity is Strathcarron Hospice, a charity very close to all of the organisers.

Tickets priced at £19+bf and available from the weblink above.

www.shuffledown.co.uk www.facebook.com/shuffledown https://twitter.com/shuffle_down

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Host of top Scottish Musicians To Perform At Summer Isles Festival

Achitibuie, Ullapool : 26-27 August - www.summerislesfestival.com

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Summer Isles Festival is an award-winning two-day event programmed by local musician Mairearad Green that brings the best Scottish musical and creative talent to the spectacular setting of Achiltibuie. And the festival returns on the 26-27 August, for a fifth year, with a line-up including the Peatbog Faeries, Blazin’ Fiddles, Blue Rose Code and Tannara.

The Peatbog Faeries are one of Scotland’s best known names in contemporary folk music. Pipes, whistles and fiddle swirl in a blizzard of electronic beats and hypnotic instrumental workouts. 2016 sees their 25th anniversary, following last year’s successful release of their eighth album, Blackhouse, to critical acclaim. The band draws from the deep well of the Scottish tradition, but has also created a distinctive fusion sound.

Blending ensemble and solo sets, Blazin’ Fiddles have surpassed all others in capturing the excitement, passion and sensitivity of the music of Scotland’s Highlands and Islands over the last 17 years. With a Blazers performance comes the rare opportunity to hear the different regional expressions from Bruce MacGregor, Jenna Reid, Rua Macmillan, and Kristan Harvey – backed by Anna Massie (guitar) and Angus Lyon (piano).

Acclaimed Scottish singer-songwriter Blue Rose Code (Ross Wilson) has been championed by the likes of Edith Bowman, Bob Harris, Mary Ann Kennedy and Ewan McGregor. The Ballads Of Peckham Rye, Blue Rose Code’s second record, was nominated for the prestigious Scottish Album Of The Year Award in 2014 and features a roll-call of remarkable talent. Here, he performs music from his latest album …And Lo! The Bird is on the Wing, originally previewed at

Celtic Connections.

Labelling themselves as teuchters at heart, Tannara share a collective love of playing trad music. They perform a collection of tunes and songs mostly from Scotland, some self-penned, and occasionally drawing on traditions from across the globe. 2016 is an important year for the band as they release their debut album, Trig (produced by Rachel Newton and recorded by Mattie Foulds).

Saturday’s line-up is completed by the annual ceilidh dance set from the Mairearad Green Ceilidh Band, and between bands, DJ Angus Binnie (Sketch) will keep the festival atmosphere going.

Kicking off on the Friday night, the festival celebrates the local community with a showcase concert featuring a performance from Mairearad’s latest solo album Summer Isles, with her band Mike Vass and Hector MacInnes. More acts will be announced soon.

Building on the model of last year’s festival, the fringe daytime events will again include music workshops in the local piping school, sessions in the hall, art workshops throughout the day, and cookery demonstrations using local produce. Local pipe band, the Achiltibuie Highlanders will give their traditional outdoor performance to mark the opening of the second day.

Festival Director Mairearad Green said:

“I think that this has to be one of the strongest musical line-ups to date and we have a huge range of additional fringe activities planned too. Each year we grow and aim to add more exciting aspects to the festival, which attracts both local people and those from further afield. It is great to be able to celebrate our community with events for all the family.”

The evening concert and ceilidh dance will start at 5pm and with a few short breaks will run until midnight. Tickets are now on sale and can be booked in advance from www.summerislesfestival.com or locally at Achiltibuie Artists Gallery. Tickets are £25, Students/Concessions £18 and under 12s £10.

The festival is a registered charity, run entirely by volunteers and in 2014 set up a Youth Fund to support young people living in the Coigach community looking to develop their creative aspirations. The silent auction, raffle and donations have already raised a substantial amount for the fund over the previous two years. The festival is grateful for the generous sponsorship from Scottish Sea Farms.

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APRIL

Edinburgh International Harp Festival Edinburgh 1-6 April The Edinburgh International Harp Festival hosts its 35th annual celebration of the instrument with a magical series of concerts, courses and workshops. A star-studded line-up features top Scottish harpists, alongside acclaimed names from the USA and Europe, performing a rich variety of music that spans traditions with outstanding creativity. With special events to celebrate the 85th anniversary of its organisers, The Clarsach Society, EIHF 2016 will be a festival to remember. www.harpfestival.co.uk

Edinburgh’s Youth ‘Easter’ Gaitherin Edinburgh 4-7 April The Easter Gaitherin is EYG’s flagship event for 9 – 18 year olds. We book Scotland’s top traditional musicians as tutors and run four days of classes in Tynecastle High School. These range from instrumental, to drama, to dance, to technical skills (check below to find out what we’re offering this year). Each day participants will take a main workshop in their first choice instrument; one in their second choice (which can be something like singing, art, drama or a second instrument); and a third choice. www.eyg.org.uk

Counterflows Glasgow 7-10 April Counterflows reaches its fifth year and I suppose it is a big deal but really the music goes on and on with or without Counterflows. In saying this of course we are really pleased to reach this milestone. A festival that celebrates marginal, underground or maybe even experimental music, which are what our labels testify to, will always struggle to exist but we have made it this far and are determined to keep the flame burning http://counterflows.com/

Glenfarg Folk Feast Kinross 8-10 April Ran by Glenfarg Village Folk Club the festival may be small but its stature and longevity are huge to say the least. We pride ourselves on running a friendly event with workshops and competitions to suit all tastes, and the World famous Puff-a -Box competition just has to be seen to be believed! www.glenfargfolkclub.com

Northern Streams Edinburgh 21-24 April

For four days in April this truly unique festival combines one off concerts with dynamic and exciting workshops for both adults and children. In 2016 we celebrate the best talent from Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Scotland. For the past 13 years the Traditional Music and Song Association of Scotland (Edinburgh & Lothians Branch), have been bringing the finest in Nordic and Scottish music, song and dance to enthusiastic audiences in Edinburgh. Explore our concerts, workshops and artist pages for details of this year’s festival. And you can book through the link on tickets page. On Thursday 21 April there will be a concert in Inverness at Hootanannys. www.northernstreams.org

TradFest Edinburgh | Dùn Èideann Edinburgh 27 Apr – 8 May A vibrant twelve-day showcase of Scotland’s thriving traditional arts scene with dozens of events in the heart of Scotland’s capital, setting the city abuzz with music, song, storytelling, dance, film, crafts and more. Amongst the host of local and international talent appearing on this year’s programme are Nordic Fiddlers Bloc, Macmath: The Silent Page, Moishe’s Bagel, Dàimh, Niteworks, Gol, Nuala Kennedy Band, Talisk, Sheesham and Lotus & ‘Son and Mairi Campbell’s ‘Pulse’, along with many other songsters, storytellers and dancers to enjoy and discover. www.facebook.com/tradfestedinburgh

36th Shetland Folk Festival Shetland 28 April -1 May The Festival as the UK's most northerly folk festival is regarded a prestigious event for performers, locals and visitors alike. Organised by a voluntary committee (and run by an even bigger pool of volunteers) the Festival prides itself in reaching out to even the most far flung areas of Shetland. Concerts are organised throughout the isles, consisting of some of the best International, British and Shetland music that the world has to offer. In fact, visiting artistes are regularly dumbfounded by the quantity and quality of local musicians that our remote isles have to offer. www.shetlandfolkfestival.com

Skye Live Skye 29-30 April A festival held on the magical Isle of Skye with world class music, world class views. And prepare to be blasted into space, the mind-blowing Public Service Broadcasting are bringing their full brass section to Skye Live 2016! www.skyelive.scot

Thornhill Music Festival Dumfriesshire 29 April - 1 May Thornhill Music Festival brings a rich and diverse programme of music to the village including

acclaimed Blues artist Aynsley Lister. The weekend boasts a cross section of music from Country Rock and Blues, Ska, Rock, Indie, Blues funk, Eclectic Americana as well as singer songwriters. www.lewishamiltonmusic.co.uk/events

Highlands and Islands Music and Dance Festival Oban 29 April - 1 May The Highlands and Islands Music and Dance Festival has developed into one of Scotland’s major cultural festivals, and takes place annually in Oban. The event has developed to include new special events and competitions, and the festival now offers over 1100 participants 125 competition classes in eleven disciplines including piping, accordion, fiddle, clarsach, piano, recorder, singing, woodwind & brass, highland dancing and choreography. www.obanfestival.org

Isle of Bute Jazz Festival Isle of Bute 29 April-2 May 2016 The Isle of Bute Jazz Festival has grown spectacularly from its small beginnings to become one of Britain's most popular jazz weekends. Top-class UK and international names feature in a programme of traditional jazz music in one of Scotland's prettiest and friendliest seaside resorts. Some very well known jazz names featured on the programme over the next few years – Acker Bilk, Monty Sunshine, Martin Taylor, Tommy Smith, Andy Sheppard, Carol Kidd, The Temperance 7, and The London Community Gospel Choir amongst others, and the Festival continues to attract top class UK and international bands in mainly the Traditional New Orleans idiom.The Festival is a great supporter of young musicians who feature prominently in the annual programme. www.butejazz.com

Girvan Folk Festival Girvan 29 April - 1 May Concerts - Sessions - Open Stage - Competitions - Workshops - Children's Events - Camp Site : Girvan Folk Festival started in 1975, a time when folk music in Scotland was increasingly exploring its own roots. Concert venues, competitions, ceilidh dance childrens events, sessions for tunes and songs, Open Stage, workshops,secure campsite. So please tell all of your friends and help to make this the biggest Girven Festival ever! There will be plenty of room and plenty of music for all to enjoy. www.girvanfolkfestival.co.uk

North Hop Aberdeen Aberdeen 30 April - 1 May May Day Bank Holiday Weekend celebrations, jam packed with craft beer, cider, gin, cocktails, street food, music and lots more. North Hop Aberdeen is returning to the Granite City for 2016, and this time we are going BIG! Meet the

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brewers, discover new and exciting products from across Scotland, and soak up the festival atmosphere with like-minded folk! http://northhop.co.uk/

MAY

Moniave Folk Festival Moniaive, Dumfriesshire, 6-8 May The Moniave Folk Festival has something for everyone, Great music, Piping competitions, Open stages, children’s events and concerts. Workshops. Come along for a wonderful family weekend. Main artists: Martin Simpson, the Paul McKenna Band, Northern Harmony, Margaret Bennett, Talisk www.moniaivefolkfestival.co.uk

Shuffle Down Larbert (nr Falkirk) 7 May After a hugely successful debut year the Shuffle Down Festival will return to the Dobbie Hall in Larbert on 7 May. Last year the event sold out and the organisers are aiming to bring a bigger and better event to the town this year. The Charity Last year the event raised almost £5000 for MND Scotland and this year’s chosen charity is Strathcarron Hospice, a charity very close to all of the organisers. www.shuffledown.co.uk

Psychedelic Forest Disco Kelburn 7 May Kelburn’s infamous season-opener – the wild and groovy feast for all the senses that is The Psychedelic Forest Disco. Once again we will feature a top line-up of acts across 2 soundsystems alongside innumerable hidden treats and surprises, quality beer, cider and cocktails, camping and of course your favourite woodland shenanigans! www.kelburngardenparty.com/other-events/

Scribblers Picnic Stirling 8 May The Scribbler’s Picnic is a charity that was set up in 2001 to raise money for five cancer charities – CHAS, Strathcarron Hospice, Maggie’s Centre, Marie Curie Cancer Care and Macmillan Cancer Care. This outdoor event is held at the Stirling Rugby Club with each year getting better and better. Four stages of music and a charity fete make it a fun day for all the family. The unique music event, which is run entirely by volunteers, will feature hundreds of musicians covering a broad array of music across the day in the grounds of Stirling Rugby Club. It run's under the tagline 'Musicians Helping the Fight Against Cancer' and is run in association with Stirling and Bridge of Allan Round Table. Thousands are expected to flock to Bridgehaugh for the event which runs from 12noon to 8pm. www.scribblerspicnic.co.uk

FifeSing Collessie, Fife 13-15 May This unique event brings together some of Scotland's finest exponents of traditional singing for a weekend of old songs and bothy ballads in concerts and singarounds in the rural surroundings of the Fife Farm Park. The weekend also includes workshops/talks on topics related to traditional song and culture. www.springthyme.co.uk/fifesing

Southside Fringe Glasgow 13-29 May It’s an incredibly exciting time in the Southside actively encouraging creativity and supporting local Southside talent. The ethos of the Southside Fringe is very much ‘strength in numbers’ : the more facets of the community and local businesses who get involved the louder our voice and the bigger the Southside’s profile will be on the festival map. www.southsidefringe.org.uk

Perth Festival of the Arts Perth 19-29 May Celebrate Perth Festival's 45th birthday in Perth Concert Hall, the Festival is one of the highlights in Scotland's cultural calendar. Perth Festival of the Arts is an annual 11 day May Festival, founded in 1972, and taking place in the City of Perth in Scotland. It is now in its 45th Year and is one of the oldest continuously running arts Festivals in Scotland. www.perthfestival.co.uk

Dumfries & Galloway Arts Festival Dumfries and Galloway 20-29 May Our 9-day festival has taken place since 1979. The founding aim was to bring international performers of the highest quality to a region containing many scattered rural communities since then this region has produced some of its own talent of international standing and we’re proud to also be able to present these artistes from time to time. We offer a wide range of events: music – including classical, jazz and folk, dance, theatre, literary, children’s events, plus the visual arts and films. Events take place in a range of venues throughout the region, from large to small, formal to informal, urban to rural. www.dgartsfestival.org.uk

Doune & Dunblane Fling Dunblane 26-28 May Like many others, the Fling was conceived with the help of music and alcohol. It began as an idea at the Dunblane Folk Club, among a group of people fond of music and fun. And so in May 1993 the first Fling happened. Since then the Fling has gone from strength to strength.

Somewhere along the line the first 'Fling by the River' began. Held each Fling Saturday on Dunblane's historic Drying Green, its activities have ranged from an open stage for local young musicians, fire engines, space-hopper races and fire-eating jugglers, to the annual Rotary Club race for 4,000 plastic ducks down the Allan Water. Gradually a 'Fringe Fling' has developed, featuring over the years everything from ghost walks, pub quizzes, plays from the local Drama Group, master classes in everything from fiddling or mandolins to harmony singing or bodhran, and the now-annual Thursday Jazz Night. www.dunblanefling.com

Knockengorroch World Ceilidh Kirkcudbright 26-29 May If you prefer a bigger festival in a smaller pot you are a Knockengorrocher! Join us beside the glittering Water of Deugh beneath the broad shoulders of southwest Scotland's great mountain peaks to celebrate some of the finest music from the Celtic diaspora and everywhere in-between. The World Ceilidh melds together the most ancient roots music with the latest cutting edge sounds. This first truly backwoods upland music fest in Scotland hosts some of the best musicians and performers from across the world. All are invited to journey over hill and dale by rock and stream to our natural greenfield auditorium and to our upland stage to experience the biggest little festival this side of anywhere! www.knockengorroch.org.uk

Orkney Folk Festival Orkney 26-29 May Once again we have some big names coming north to join in the fun in May, and from the ceilidh bands to the almost indie strand, we have brought together a broad mix of artists that we hope appeals to everyone’s interpretation of the increasingly expansive folk genre. As ever, our local traditions and musicians – both established and emerging – will be centre stage alongside those visiting the festival. You would be hard pushed to find another festival throughout the country that has such a strong home representation, and it is one that we are hugely proud of. www.orkneyfolkfestival.com

Reivers Rock and Blues Festival Alwinton (Northumberland) 27-29 May Clennell Hall will be the venue for the Reivers Rock and Blues Festival with a fantastic line up of top name bands and artists from all corners of the UK. Clennell Hall is located in the Upper Coquet Valley of Northumberland (just over the Scottish border) near the village of Alwinton. Situated in it's own grounds, facilities include camping, bunk rooms, hotel rooms, fully licensed bars, restaurant and bar meals as well as hog roasts and snacks throughout the weekend.

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Riverside Festival Glasgow 28-29 May The Electric Frog & Pressure Riverside Festival takes place on the banks of the river Clyde on the grounds of the iconic Riverside Museum for the fourth consecutive year in 2016. Set to be bigger than ever before, the festival takes place over May Bank Holiday weekend www.theelectricfrog.co.uk

Aberdeen and North East of Scotland Music Festival Aberdeen 30 May - 3 June Aberdeen’s oldest and original music, drama and dance Festival began life in 1909 and is still very much alive today. The Festival takes place each year in the first week of June, in halls throughout the city. All events are open to the public and audiences are warmly welcomed. The Festival adopts the motto of Sir Henry Walford Davies: “Not to gain a prize or defeat a rival but to pace one another on the road to excellence.” http://aberdeenmusicfestival.com/

JUNE

Brew at the Bog Inverness 3-4 June Brew at the Bog is one of Scotland's most dynamic hidden gems, championing new and unsigned artists alongside craft beer, gin, cider, whisky, rum and prosecco bars! A two-day camping festival, Brew at the Bog is held at Bogbain Farm in Inverness, which was crowned "Best Unusual Venue" at the 2012 Scottish Event Awards - the perfect setting for a festival that prides itself on championing the best of Scotland’s alternative scene. The lineup for 2016 includes a Mercury Music Prize nominee, Best Breakthrough Act at the Scottish Music Awards, Best Hip Hop Act AND Best Live Act at the SAMAs, Best Up & Coming at the Scottish Trad Music Awards, a Radio 2 Awards nominee, and so it goes on! The festival for 2016 also features a programme of speakers, cinema, alternative therapies and street food! www.brewatthebog.com

Portsoy Folk Festival : “The 7th Haal” Portsoy 3-5 June A weekend of songs, tunes, stories, poetry, dance, workshops and sessions to be held in and around Portsoy. www.bothyfolk.org

Eden Festival Raehills Meadows 9-12 June 2016

Set in the stunning Raehill Meadows of Dumfries Eden Festival is boutique festival, with over 250 acts performing across 9 stages, bringing you live music, dance, cabaret, burlesque, circus skills, theatre, a children's area, fun and games and much more. Nominated for three awards in 2015. www.facebook.com/theedenfestival

Riverside Rock Jedburgh 18 June Riverside Rock 2016 already have some fantastic bands signed up: The Men They Couldn’t Hang / The Lost Boys / Scocha (Back for a 3rd Year) / Blistered Molly (Back for a 2nd Year) / Greg Anderson (Back too for 2nd year) he rocked the tent at the end last year! Main tent headliner and other bands to be announced. As before Riverside Rock must not be missed, the Scottish Borders very own music festival at Riverside Park, Jedburgh, and 2016 will have more food outlets, more bars and a bigger tent. Tickets on sale soon! www.riversiderock.co.uk

North Hop Glasgow Glasgow 18-19 June There will be lots of great Scottish and guest breweries offering up a fine selection of craft beers and ciders in the rustic Beer Hall, along with some tasty street food vendors, market traders, live art, bands, and acoustic acts. http://northhop.co.uk/

JULY

T in the Park Strathallan Castle, Perthshire 8-10 July What more can we say! Scotland’s most widely known and respected festival, which always attracts the biggest names. Check out tickets availability at www.tinthepark.com/tickets. www.tinthepark.com

Hebridean Celtic Festival Hebrides 13-16 July 2016 Fantastic four-day festival set against the rich cultural backdrop of the Outer Hebrides, featuring top quality music from around the Celtic nations and beyond. Stornoway and throughout Lewis and Harris. The cream of international folk and Celtic music have heaped praise on HebCeltl as it celebrated its 20th year in 2015 by hosting its biggest number of live performances ever. Award-winning artists who took part in this year's Hebridean Celtic Festival hailed it a huge success after bosses laid on new venues and returned to its roots for the showpiece event. www.hebceltfest.com

Tiree Music Festival Isle of Tiree 15-17 July Tiree Music Festival (TMF) was formed in 2010 when Tiree musician Daniel Gillespie (Skerryvore) teamed up with school friend Stewart MacLennan with the radical idea of holding an open-air festival on their local island of Tiree. TMF is more than just attending a music festival – it is an island adventure. From the stunning sail or flight to the island of Tiree, camping next to the white sands of Crossapol Bay or surfing at Balevullin beach, TMF is an experience very few festivals in the world could compete with. Get your tickets quick, the early birds sell out in hours - http://tireemusicfestival.co.uk/ticket-prices. www.tireemusicfestival.co.uk

Pandora Fest Duncarron 16 July Pandorafest will be Scotland's first music festival that supports women musicians. In 2015 the major festivals displayed a massive gender imbalance, of the 87 acts that were announced, 78 were all male, 3 were female and 6 were mixed groups - that was an 89.6% all male line up.* "As far as Scotland is concerned - this is not okay" says Pandora Fest! Pandorafest will be a one day music festival packed full of live music from female singer/songwriters, women musicians and female fronted bands all playing from 12noon-11pm. Pandorafest will be running 3 stages of live music across many genres, all expertly woven into a line-up to keep you entertained from start to finish. www.pandorafest.com

Glamis Prom Glamis Castle 16 July This year's Glamis Proms promises a spectacular evening of enchanting music featuring the renowned British Sinfonietta orchestra with an array of special guests. www.glamisprom.com

Crail Festival Fife 20-30 July 2016 "Crail Festival- 20th - 30th July 2016- now in its 4th decade , will ,once again ,offer a wonderful programme of music. It will include: the amazing Jimmi Shandrix Experience Ceilidh Band : Opera Bohemia ' I Pagliacci': the incomparable Richard Digance will be conducting a Songwriting Children's Workshop in addition to his keenly anticipated performance: Gaelic folk from the talented Mischa Macpherson Trio: Matthew McAllister , a 'local' classical guitarist, is rapidly gaining world wide recognition: the legendary Jimmie McGregor will be performing his acclaimed 'Gathering of Songs, Stories and Famous Folk': the hugely popular, irrepressible Christine Bovill will capture her audience with her interpretation of songs about 'Paris': and Buddy Holly and the Cricketers , our headline act, will bring the Festival to a rousing close. Truly something for everyone! Tickets will be on sale from the Byre Theatre Box Office starting 30

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May 2016. Follow the build up to the Festival on www.crailfestival.com, www.facebook.com/CrailFestival, and ‘Crail Festival’ on Pinterest." www.crailfestival.com

Wickerman Festival Dumfries & Galloway 22-23 July Wickerman is one of the UK’s best-loved independent music festivals which will enter its 15th consecutive year in 2016. With ten stages featuring an eclectic and exciting mix of leading artists, heritage acts and up-and-coming talent, the two day summer party caters for all musical tastes. www.thewickermanfestival.co.uk

Speyfest Moray 29-31 July At the end of July, the playing fields on East Street in the Moray town of Fochabers will be home to the 21st annual Speyfest, three days of the best in traditional and contemporary Celtic music. The tented village hosts a variety of seated and standing events including the Friday and Saturday concerts and stomps, the music marathon that is the Speyfest Family Sunday, a craft and food fair and an ecumenical Celtic Kirk service. The event is fully licensed and offers a wide range of hot foods and a variety of drinks from a number on onsite concessions. www.speyfest.com

AUGUST

Tartan Heart ‘Belladrum’ Festival Beauly 4-6 August Get yourself a ticket to Scotland’s all ages wackiest festival of music and performing arts. Bella is back in its beautiful Highland setting with all the crazy variety that makes it Scotland’s premier boutique festival. ''Belladrum - quite simply, it’s what everyday life should be like, if only everyday life didn't get in the way.'' - Clare Damdoaran, eFestivals. Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival takes place in the beautiful Highland surroundings of Belladrum Estate, near Beauly in Inverness-shire. The independent festival has built a reputation for its eclectic line-ups, its offbeat non-musical entertainments and its all-ages approach. www.tartanheartfestival.co.uk

Party at The Palace Linlithgow 13-14 August 2016 McEwan’s Party at The Palace is back for its third year following the fantastic event last summer. The 2 day party will take place on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th August in Linlithgow. It’s only 20 mins from Edinburgh and 35mins from Glasgow, making it one of the most easily accessible music festivals in Scotland. We have some exciting additions to the 2016 event including a second stage for the first time, new

street food outlets and a larger kids zone to keep the children entertained. A limited number of Tier One Early Bird tickets are on sale from 1 January. www.partyatthepalace.co.uk

Innerleithen Music Festival Scottish Borders 19-21 August 2016 A hugely enjoyable weekend of traditional music in this small Borders town, beautifully situated amongst rolling hills by the River Tweed. Memorable concerts feature some of the biggest names in Celtic music alongside the best of the local talent and the weekend is rounded off with a concert presenting wonderful singers of traditional song. Complementing the concerts are an open stage, a singaround and the legendary informal music sessions in local hostelries and the Union Club. www.innerleithenmusicfestival.org

Doune The Rabbit Hole Cardross, nr Stirling 19-21 August 2016 A small family-friendly festival with a twist! Doune The Rabbit Hole presents music, comedy, art, spoken word, drama, puppetry and much more! Events across Scotland throughout the year culminating in a 3 day multi arts festival...it's time to go Doune The Rabbit Hole!! We make people happy through music, art, cake and loads of other stuff! After we've done that we teach people who wouldn't ordinarily be able to how to do creative things, like play instruments, write poetry and paint. www.dounetherabbithole.co.uk

Stowed Out Festival Stow 26-27 August Stowed Out is ran by Sound Out are a not for profit organisation formed in 2009 by an eclectic group of musicians and music fans in the village of Stow in the Scottish Borders. Over the years Sound Out has grown and now hosts a range vibrant music and arts events where there is always a strong emphasis on encouraging and supporting young or first time performers to get up and have a go. www.soundout.org.uk

Groove Loch Ness Loch Ness 20 August Groove Loch Ness is due to return to the iconic location on the banks of the Loch for it’s 2nd outing. After the overwhelming positive feedback of the inaugural event which saw a raft of international DJ’s including Groove Armada, 2mandjs, Tensnake and B.Traits along with a wealth of talent from the Highlands and throughout Scotland, Groove Loch Ness will once again transform the world famous location into Scotland’s biggest nightclub under the stars. www.groovefestival.co.uk

SEPTEMBER

Lindisfarne Festival Holy Island 2-4 September Lindisfarne 2016 promises to be as exciting and spectacular as the inaugural year. The first year saw the music, arts and camping festival achieve national acclaim and was shortlisted for 3 national awards including being a finalist as “Best New Festival in the UK”. With the spectacular backdrop of Holy Island and North Northumberland Coast , the Lindisfarne festival is conveniently located off the A1 and around 6 miles from Berwick upon Tweed. The festival has an eclectic range of music and arts with 2015 saw music from the likes of Public Service Broadcasting, Reverend and the Makers, Craig Charles, The Skints, DJ Yoda and Nadine Shah play in the breath-taking scenery. A brilliant weekend away 2016’s festival will be everything a small independent festival should be. www.lindisfarnefestival.com

Midstock Festival Dalkeith 3 September Just when you think festival season is over, there’s still another cracker to be enjoyed before the nights draw in. The line up will offer a variety of musical tastes designed to cater for the wide demographic expected at the festival, which welcomes everyone aged 0-90.Tickets on sale soon @ www.midstockfestival.com www.midstockfestival.com

Isle of Jura Music Festival Jura 23-25 September The Isle of Jura Musical Festival is a well-established favourite for lovers of the traditional music scene, enjoy a weekend packed with fantastic performances, stimulating workshops, spontaneous sessions and great craic. To guarantee you don’t miss out, you can pre-purchase your tickets online now. www.juramusicfestival.com

OCTOBER

Ullapool Guitar Festival Ullapool 7-9 October So why is the UGF so special? Perhaps it’s the mix of music old and new, of electric and acoustic, of steel and nylon, of seasoned performers and those, like the students from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, just starting out on their careers. Perhaps it’s the location on Loch Broom and the drive up through some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery. Perhaps it’s the informal air of the whole weekend: there’s no “us and them”, no VIP area. Everyone mingles, and you’re likely to find yourself sitting beside a guitar legend in the Festival Club – or even jamming with them on one of the trade stands. www.ullapoolguitarfestival.com

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