Ainsley Hamill from Cardross is a finalist in the BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician 2015. We asked Ainsley the following questions:
How did you get involved in Scottish music?
I was first introduced to Scottish music at primary school due to the annual Scots song competitions. However, I took an interest in Gaelic song when I joined the Gaelic choir in secondary school.
I really started to get involved in Scottish Music when I began studying at The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland on the BA Scottish Music course.
Here I met my band mates, and Barluath was formed.
Why did you enter BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician Award?
I entered the competition as I believe it is a great platform for becoming known, and for young musicians to play the music they love to a captive audience.
I also entered as it will be a fun and invaluable experience. This is a great opportunity to learn and meet new people.
What do you hope to gain from the experience?
I hope to come out of the competition as a better performer, by putting the judges constructive criticism in to practice, and by gaining experience through working with the scenes most talented performers.
Do you have any particular musical highlights?
A musical highlight for me was performing at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall as a special guest with Phil Cunningham, Ally Bain, and The Royal Scottish National Orchestra in 2011. The event was a Saint Andrews Day celebration, and to celebrate Phil and Ally playing together for 25 years.
I’m also part of a group called Atlantic Seaway, which has allowed me to travel extensively, mostly to the United States since 2009. Playing mostly venues in Boston, New York and Florida.
I’m also very fortunate to be part of Barluath, who I have performed, toured and recorded with since 2009.
What are your plans for the future?
In the future I hope to still be performing and recording with Barluath and Atlantic Seaway.
I would also like to record a solo album at some point.
Why not buy a ticket to hear Ainsley Hamill or any other of the finalists at the Grand Finals on Sunday February 1st at 5pm. The finals are part of Celtic Connections festival. If you can’t make it along the event will be broadcast on BBC Radio Scotland between 5 & 8pm and on the iPlayer afterwards.