A line-up of traditional Scottish music acts has been unveiled for this year’s Spirit of Speyside whisky festival.
The music sessions – which will run in tandem with the festival between May 1 and 5 – will be staged at whisky-themed venues across the north-east, including distilleries, bars and even a vintage train. Visitors will be able to enjoy a range of performances from traditional Scottish music bands such as Old Blind Dogs and The Shee, to Ivor Novello-winning singer-songwriter Scott Matthews. Indie favourites such as Withered Hand and R.M. Hubbert will also feature, as will an all-star ceilidh band including many of Scotland’s leading folk artists. Festival manager Mary Hemsworth said: “Over the coming years, we hope this will grow to become one of the best traditional music festivals in the world.
“With so many fantastic artists that will appeal to music fans young and old, this major addition to our programme will open the whisky festival up to a whole new audience.” Visitors will be able to hop on board the Folk Train which will be running on the Keith and Dufftown heritage railway. Meanwhile, there will also be the chance to dance the night away at Tomintoul Distillery among several other unusual venues.
Scottish Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said: “This is one of my favourite events of the year. I can think of no better combination than enjoying a tasty dram with some fantastic music. We will be celebrating all that is good about Scotland. These music sessions will provide an excellent opportunity for visitors to join us in celebrating our music, culture and heritage.”
Information about all the events can be found at www.spiritofspeyside.com