Congratulations to Gillie O'Flaherty who has been nominated in Up and Coming Artist of the Year sponsored by Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards 2024. Vote for Gillie O'Flaherty now!. It’s going to be another great night at the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards on Saturday 30th November in Inverness Leisure. Why not join us for a brilliant night of music and awards. Buy a ticket here.
We asked Gillie of Gillie O'Flaherty the following questions.
Tell us about yourself
Multi-instrumentalist Gillie O’Flaherty comes from Ullapool in the Northwest Highlands of Scotland. His involvement in Scottish traditional music started early with Feis Rois, with whom he works closely to this day.
Gillie thrives on small ensemble playing. He honed his skills at the National Centre of Excellence in Traditional Music in Plockton, and has just graduated from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.
Gillie has recently been performing with some of the most sought-after names in the trad music scene, such as Hannah Rarity, Ryan Young, and John McCusker, to name a few. Gillie is also a founder member of the new band Astro bloc, and earlier this year, he released his debut EP with his other group, The Tom Campbell Trio.
Why are you involved in Scottish music?
I’m involved with Scottish music because it has been a cornerstone of my life. It’s a significant part of my identity and gives me a sense of belonging. I appreciate how it reflects the places and experiences that have shaped me. Engaging with this music allows me to connect with my roots and share a piece of my culture with others.
Any particular career highlights?
Some of the highlights of my music career so far include recording our first EP with the Tom Campbell Trio, which was a great experience that really solidified my passion for recording and being in the studio. Additionally, I’ve had the pleasure of playing alongside some fantastic musicians as an accompanist in various duo and group settings. I value the opportunities to collaborate with such talented artists, as it has not only inspired me but also helped me grow as a musician.
What are your plans for the future?
My plans for the future involve expanding my network within the music community. I aim to record more of my own work and also take on more projects where I can collaborate with other musicians.
Gillie O'Flaherty Social Media
Website:
Facebook: @
Twitter: @
Instagram: @gilliemot
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gillieoflaherty1660
TikTok: @
The 2024 MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards are on the 30th November 2024 in Inverness Leisure Centre! You will be able to watch it live in person (buy a ticket here). Watch it live in the UK at 9pm (GMT) on BBC ALBA and and around the world here. Bands performing on Saturday 30th November include Julie Fowlis, Skipinnish, Laura Wilkie and Ian Carr, Highland Young Musicians and Arc Fiddlers, An Dannsa Dub, BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician Award winner 2024 Calum McIlroy and more!
If you would like to support Hands Up for Trad in their work with Scottish trad music and musicians why not become a friend of Hands Up for Trad. In addition to our high profile events like the Scots Trad Music Awards, we also deliver a less well known, education programme for young people from 8yrs right through to young adults at the start of their careers. Read more here.
