Following the tremendous success of last year’s competition, which saw Ellie Beaton crowned the BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician of the Year 2025, we’re delighted to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 award.
Any singer or instrumentalist aged between 18 and 27 can apply and be in the chance of winning the prestigious title, an additional recording session with BBC Radio Scotland, a performance at the Scots Trad Music Awards and one year’s membership of Musicians’ Union.
The BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician of the Year remains the premier award for young traditional musicians in Scotland. The competition final takes place during the Celtic Connections Festival, and a place in the final can be the perfect way to kickstart a career in traditional music.
Previous BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musicians include Anna Massie, Hannah Rarity, Mohsen Amini of Talisk and Imar, Michael Biggins of The Canny Band, Kristan Harvey of Fara, Eryn Rae, Calum McIlroy and last year’s winner Ellie Beaton.
Key Dates
Entries Close: Sunday 29th June 2025 at 23:59
Semi-Finals Weekend: Friday 10th – Sunday 12th October 2025
The Semi Finals Weekend will take place at BBC Pacific Quay in Glasgow. The event will be recorded for BBC Radio Scotland and televised for BBC Alba. This is your chance to rehearse with professional accompanists and meet your fellow finalists.
Grand Final: 30th January – 1st February 2026
The Grand Finals will take place at the prestigious Celtic Connections Festival in Glasgow, where the Winner will be crowned the BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician of the Year 2026.
How to Apply
To enter, you’ll need to fill in the online application form and submit a 10-minute audio recording of yourself playing traditional Scottish music, plus details about the songs and tunes on your recording. You’ll also need to provide information about yourself, including why you’re interested in traditional music, where you’ve learned traditional music, your musical experience to date, range of musical influences, and notable performances.
Entrants must be aged between 18 and 27 and be resident in Scotland for over one year.
Find out more information and apply at www.bbc.co.uk/youngtrad
Entries Close on Sunday 29th June 2025 at 23:59
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