I hope everyone had a lovely Christmas and feels relaxed and ready for the New Year.
For the first time since moving to Glasgow 13 years ago, I will be bringing in the bells in the city as I am playing live with Tide Lines in Govan Old Town Hall for Cèilidh na Bliadhn’ Ùire – BBC Alba’s Hogmanay show.
As I wrote a couple of weeks ago, rehearsals sounded good so, if you are looking for entertainment on Hogmanay, look no further than BBC Alba!
Led by Ingrid Henderson and the Glenfinnan Cèilidh Band, the evening will feature Rachel Walker, Mischa MacPherson, Darren MacLean, Finlay MacDonald, Binneas, Emma Scalpay MacLeod, and is presented by Niall Iain MacDonald and Cathy Bhàn.
As you can tell by that line up, it’s going to be a show that’s well worth watching, as it is every year, with plenty good cèilidh-style singalongs.
In last week’s column, I reflected on 2023 which was a fantastic year for traditional music in Glasgow. From huge events attracting thousands of revellers, such as The Reeling and the Hoolie in the Hydro, to smaller cèilidhs throughout the year and the annual gatherings of the various island associations, there was barely a weekend without some kind of musical event.
2024 looks set to be no different with a number of dates already in the diary. One such event is the Mull and Iona Association annual gathering on Saturday February 17.
Last year was a bit of a mixed year for the kindred associations. Some were absolutely delighted with their turnouts, whilst others posted on social media bemoaning low attendances. My hope for 2024 is that we see more of the former as opposed to the latter. The Mull and Iona announced their date on social media earlier this month with the following post: We can’t wait to welcome you to the 2024 Mull and Iona Association Annual Gathering in Glasgow! After a brilliant 2023 Gathering, our annual concert and dance are back!! Pack your dancing shoes and be prepared for a night of live music and dancing in the Woodside Halls. Saturday Ferbuary 17!
More details to follow, but for now, SAVE THE DATE! The concert is at 7pm, with the dance at 9.30pm. Pre-book tickets by emailing: themullandiona@gmail.com. Tickets cost £12. Concert ticket allows free entry to the dance.
The start of the year, of course, will also see the return of Celtic Connections – the UK’s premier celebration of Celtic music, which always brightens up an otherwise cold and dreary month in Glasgow.
Next week, I will begin previewing the festival and include a special What’s On section with a selection of Celtic Connections shows that I think may be of interest to readers. As always, there are plenty to choose from!
Until then, I wish everyone a good New Year and thank you for reading my column throughout the last 12 months!