MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards: The Ceilidh Place

Congratulations to The Ceilidh Place who have been nominated in Venue of the Year in the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards 2014. Vote now!

We asked The Ceilidh Place the following questions.

Tell us about yourself
The Ceilidh Place was created in 1970 by the actor Robert Urquhart. At its heart has always been the promotion and disemmination of the arts – from Scotland and beyond. From low-key poetry readings, to full-on live shows from some of Scotland’s top bands, the variety of artists to have passed through its doors is myriad and magical. Working as an independent, non-funded venue has its challenges but the rewards far outweigh the headaches.

Why are you involved in Scottish music?
First and foremost it’s because we love music and we want to share the pleasure it affords us with as many others as possible, both locals and visitors. With a real belief that living further away from urban centres is not a barrier to enjoying live music of the highest calibre, The Ceilidh Place showcases and promotes the best of Scottish music and musicians through intimate concerts. Although focussing predominantly on the traditional we also put on music of all types eg jazz, contemporary and classical. It just has to be great music!

Any particular career highlights?
There have been so many highlights over the past four decades. Ones that spring to mind are the debut live gig of The Treacherous Orchestra, supporting Feis Rois over nearly 30 years, Michael Marra’s appearances over the years, transforming our venue into a studio for the live recording of Adam Sutherland’s first album, and hosting a young Martyn Bennet with the Edinburgh Quartet. Tommy Smith’s appearance here when he was 16 continues to stand out, alongside the flourishing of so many artistes who appeared here in the early days of their careers. Our latest highlight was being invited by Unique Events to curate one of the 9 venues that made up ‘Scot:Lands’, Edinburgh’s official Ne’er Day celebrations 2014. A constant highlight is the evident delight and enjoyment of our audiences and performers.

What are your plans for the future?
More of the same! The development of our primary venue space will slightly increase our capacity and enable us to share the music with even more folk. Among the performers confirmed for 2015 are Mairearad and Anna, Daimh, Tommy Smith and Brian Kellock, Chris Stout and Catriona MacKay. Continuing to book and promote emerging acts such as Barluath, CherryGrove and The Elephant Sessions also remains a priority.

Buy a ticket for the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards on Saturday 13th December in Inverness Leisure, start time 7pm. You’ll have a great time!