MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards 2015: Kirrie Festival

Congratulations to Kirrie Festival who have been nominated in Event of the Year sponsored by VisitScotland in the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards 2015. Vote now!

We asked Scott Gardiner of Kirrie Festival the following questions.

Tell us about yourself
A superb weekend of Scots trad music and song taking place every September in the hardy Angus town of Kirriemuir. Strong emphasis on the music of the area, although folk do come from all over Scotland to play and to listen. The Festival format is based around sessions and concert/ceilidhs, with instrumental, singing and storytelling competitions taking place on the Saturday.

Why are you involved in Scottish music?
We have a great team of music enthusiasts who plan Kirrie Festival, and a further group of volunteers who help during the weekend itself. There’s no muckle fees for them or for the performers sadly, but we’re very grateful to everyone who gives their time and talent. I can’t speak for them all, but my best guess is that we’re involved because we enjoy the music and the social side of things, and believe that it’s important to keep them thriving.

Any particular career highlights?
Every Kirrie Festival is a highlight to someone, but folk usually remember the warm, sunny weekends as being the best ones. I’m a particular fan of the sessions and singarounds which have had a bit of a resurgence in the last few years. And the great mix of performers we got to hear at this year’s Festival.

What are your plans for the future?
2016 will be our 35th event, so the honeymoon period is long past, but we aim to keep the Festival thriving and enjoyable for all concerned well into the future. We also hope to ensure that the campsite is forever dry, paperwork forever minimal, and the hallkeepers forever cheery.

If you would like to come along to the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards in Dundee’s Caird Hall call the Caird Hall box office on (01382) 434940 or buy online.