Hands Up for Trad proudly announces the 2025 inductees to the Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame Services to Community section, sponsored by Fèisean nan Gàidheal. These exceptional individuals have dedicated their lives to nurturing, teaching, and sustaining Scotland’s traditional music heritage through selfless service to their communities.
The Services to Community inductees for 2025 represent the vital grassroots work that keeps traditional music alive and thriving:
Andrew Yearley – accomplished musician and educator whose lifelong commitment to Fèisean in the Outer Hebrides, combined with his work in schools and contributions to projects like HebCelt Festival, has preserved and promoted the rich Gaelic musical traditions of the islands
Kate Howard – inspiring teacher and performer who has brought traditional music education to all 120 primary schools across Dumfries and Galloway through Fèis Rois, teaching in both Gaelic and Scots whilst celebrating the often-overlooked musical heritage of her region
Malcolm Gillies – visionary festival leader whose exceptional chairmanship of the Scots Fiddle Festival has created a sustainable model for traditional music events, ensuring the festival’s continued success whilst supporting both emerging and established artists
Dr Paul Murray – dedicated educator and community leader whose 25-year commitment to Tinto Summer School and Edinburgh Youth Gaitherin’ has nurtured countless young musicians whilst embodying the inclusive spirit of traditional music
Sharon Hassan – innovative educator and performer who has made traditional music accessible to young people through her work with SC&T and Sc&T Youth in Aberdeen, whilst embodying the international spirit of traditional music through her “Diaries of a Curious Fiddler” project.
These inductees exemplify the dedication and passion that characterises Scotland’s traditional music community. From teaching children in remote island schools to running international festivals, from preserving Gaelic traditions to making music accessible in urban communities, their collective work represents decades of commitment to ensuring traditional music remains vibrant and inclusive.
Each inductee has demonstrated the generous spirit that defines traditional music communities – sharing knowledge freely, nurturing new talent, and ensuring that Scotland’s musical heritage is passed on to future generations with the same passion and authenticity that has sustained it for centuries.
The inductees will be honoured at a special ceremony during the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards 2025. Their recognition celebrates not only their individual contributions but also the countless volunteers, teachers, and community leaders who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep traditional music thriving.
The Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame Services to Community section, established in 2015, continues to recognise those whose selfless service enriches lives and strengthens communities through traditional music. Nominations for future inductees are welcomed from organisations and the public.
About the Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame The Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame was established in 2005 to celebrate the vast array of talented people who have worked to preserve and promote Scottish traditional music. The Hall of Fame recognises contributions across multiple categories including Services to Performance, Services to Community, and special awards for outstanding contributions to Scottish culture.
If you would like to support the work of Hands Up for Trad you can do so here.