TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) are sponsors of the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards 2025 and are sponsoring The Hamish Henderson Services to Traditional Music Award. We asked them some questions about their experience of sponsoring the Trad Awards. If you would like to come to the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards on 6th December in Aberdeen Music Hall you can buy tickets here or watch on BBC ALBA from 9pm on Saturday 6th November.
Thanks to Steve Byrne from TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) for answering these questions.
Why have you chosen to sponsor Na Trads, and what importance does the event hold for your sector?
TRACS is delighted to honour the contributions of the many people who make up our traditional arts, many of whom work tirelessly throughout their lives to further the cause of our traditions. In sponsoring the Hamish Henderson award, we recognise people who share the same spirit and commitment that Hamish showed towards our traditional culture, in particular those who work away quietly in the background over many years. Long may it continue!
What makes your organisation tick?
We are passionate about local traditions wherever they are found in communities across Scotland – music, dance, storytelling and crafts, all part of our shared Intangible Cultural Heritage!
What are you most looking forward to about the Trad Awards or do you have a favourite moment from over the years?
We can't quite remember the exact wording, but the year Jim Reid won Scots Singer of the Year he said something along the lines of "aboot bliddy time!" – he wasn't wrong! 😉 Also the year that SC&T Youth sang a bothy ballad in full voice – hugely inspiring.
What would you say to anyone who is considering entering, voting in, watching or attending the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards?
It really is a worthwhile coming together of the diverse aspects of our rich traditional music scene, a chance to catch up with old friends, remember those who have gone before, and be reminded of the vibrant and life-affirming nature of our traditional arts.
Visit their website: http://www.tracscotland.org
Hosted by Scottish personalities Alistair Heather and Mary Ann Kennedy, the night in the Granite City will also welcome live performances from beloved singer Hannah Rarity, UK folk legends The Poozies, trad pop band Mec Lir and Aberdeenshire singer Ellie Beaton. Rory Matheson will lead his Scottish Dance Band, while young musicians from Plockton Music School and Orkney youth project Hadhirgaan will also perform. Buy your tickets here.