Congratulations to Rory Matheson who has been nominated in the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards 2025. Vote now! It’s going to be another great night at the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards on Saturday 6th December in Aberdeen Music Hall. Why not join us for a brilliant night of music and awards. Buy a ticket here.
We asked Rory of Rory Matheson the following questions.
Tell us about yourself
Assynt born pianist Rory Matheson is quickly establishing himself as one
of the most sought after musicians in the Scottish traditional music.
Known for his dynamic yet sympathetic accompaniment, he is equally at
home both on stage and in the studio. A versatile arranger, composer and
producer, Rory has contributed to a wide range of albums and releases,
collaborating with an impressive list of artists including Hannah Rarity,
Gary Innes, Donald Shaw, Michelle McManus, among many others.
Founding member of fiery folk band TRIP, Rory can also be seen regularly
alongside Orkney fiddle powerhouse FARA, The Madeleine Stewart Trio,
and the Ross Miller Band.
Why are you involved in Scottish music?
I’m utterly useless at literally everything else. (Editors note: You don’t have to good at anything else when you are such a fabulous musician)
Any particular career highlights?
I’ve been very lucky to perform and record with amazing musicians over the last few years – Celtic Connections and Celtic Colours are always a highlight of the calendar. Producing, recording and releasing TRIP’s second album ‘In Terra’s Keep’ was also a highlight of this year, along with producing Ali Levack’s debut album and some Ross Miller Band singles out soon.
What are your plans for the future?
Hopefully to continue doing more of the same and get back into the studio soon!
Rory Matheson Social Media
Website:
Facebook: @rorymathesonmusic
Instagram: @rory_matheson
YouTube:
TikTok:
The 2025 MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards are on the 6th December 2025 in Aberdeen Music Hall! 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. Hosted by Scottish personalities Alistair Heather and Mary Ann Kennedy, the night in the Granite City will also welcome live performances from some of the brightest lights on the thriving trad scene today including beloved singer Hannah Rarity, UK folk legends The Poozies, trad pop band Mec Lir and BBC Radio scotland Young Traditional Musician and Scots Performer o the Year Ellie Beaton and many 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.