A memorable night of music is set to mark 250 years since the Moray village of Fochabers was founded later this month, as local and national stars take to the stage at Gordon Castle on Saturday 29 August.
Brought together by beloved Celtic festival Speyfest, Fochabers Village Association and Gordon Castle Estate, the special concert will welcome acclaimed traditional musicians Gary Innes, Ewen Henderson and Rory Matheson, whose performances have made them favourites with audiences across Scotland.
A brand new piece of music commemorating the 250th anniversary will be performed on the night, composed by local fiddle player James MacGregor especially for the occasion. The piece will be played by James himself, alongside Mosstodloch musician Colin Campbell and band.
Colin Campbell and band will also perform music from The Moray Suite, reviving pieces from the joyful, commemorative piece of music that was first composed for Speyfest’s 25th edition.
Milnes High School Fiddlers are also set to grace the stage, representing the next generation of local musical talent.
A gateway to Speyside, Fochabers’ rich musical history and strong sense of community spirit will be applauded. The concert is one of the centrepieces in a bustling calendar of anniversary celebrations happening across the summer.
Speyfest Chair Ashleigh Macgregor said: “Fochabers is a place that punches above its weight when it comes to music, fiddling and bringing people together, so it felt only right that we celebrate the village’s 250th anniversary through traditional music. We hope residents past and present will join us in celebrating this significant milestone and reflecting on the many happy memories that have shaped Fochabers’ story.”
Gary Innes said: “It’s a real honour to be joining the people of Fochabers as they showcase everything that is special about their home village. Both Fochabers and Speyfest have played such huge roles in promoting and sharing traditional music in Scotland and I have been lucky enough to grace the Speyfest stage many times over the years and to have seen that passion and impact up close. I can’t wait to be back for this special moment in Fochabers’ history and look forward to sharing a tune with you all.”
The concert comes as Speyfest already begin plans for their landmark 30th year next year, which will take place from Friday 23 – Sunday 25 July 2027.
Speyfest at Gordon Castle takes place at 7pm, Saturday 29 August. Tickets are available from Christies the Chemist in Fochaers and online at https://events.liveit.io/speyfest/celebrating-250-years-of-fochabers/.