NOMINEES have been announced for the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards, with more than 110 artists and organisations in the running across 22 categories, showcasing Scotland’s traditional music scene.
Fans of the genre can vote now for who they think deserves to take home the prizes, with the winners to be announced at a ceremony at Caird Hall in Dundee on Saturday, December 2.
Celebrating its 21st edition this year, the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards has grown steadily over the past two decades to reflect the wider scope of Scotland’s traditional music scene.
With the genre experiencing a resurgence, reaching wider audiences with new festivals and events popping up year after year, the awards – organised by Scotland’s traditional culture, music and arts organisation Hands Up For Trad – are aimed at “standing as a testament to the trad scene’s enduring appeal”.
From new history-making events and festivals to the top trad bands and composers in the country, the nominees represent the past, present and future of Scotland’s traditional music scene and are located right across the length and breadth of the country.
A number of special prizes will also be awarded on the night, selected by a panel of industry judges, for services to traditional music and culture.
John Urquhart will receive the Services to Gaelic Award, sponsored by Bòrd na Gàidhlig; Donald Smith will be presented with The Hamish Henderson Services to Traditional Music Award, while Frieda Morrison will receive The Janet Paisley Services to Scots Language Award, sponsored by Creative Scotland..
A host of performances will greet audiences on the night, from Skye folk-fusion group Peatbog Faeries, Gaelic songstress Joy Dunlop and her band and Celtic party-starters Mànran.
Fresh from her Young Traditional Musician of the Year win, the Amy Laurenson Trio will also take to the Caird Hall stage, as well as fiddle genius Duncan Chisholm and a host of other widely celebrated performers.
Event organiser Simon Thoumire said: “Reaching the milestone of the 21st edition of the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards is a remarkable testament to the enduring legacy of traditional music in Scotland.
“Over the past two decades, we’ve witnessed the industry evolve, with a surge of emerging talent and exciting new events and festivals dedicated to our rich musical heritage.
“It’s heartening to see the abundance of exceptional nominees this year, showcasing the immense talent within our vibrant trad music community.
“As we celebrate this significant anniversary, I am thrilled to invite all fans of the genre to cast their votes for their favourite artists.
“Your participation is crucial in recognising and celebrating the exceptional contributions to the traditional music scene in Scotland and there’s still time to join us for the special celebrations this December.”
Margaret Cameron, director of content at MG ALBA, said: “The way in which the awards has grown and developed over the past 21 years has exceeded all the expectations of everyone involved in the project, and once again this year’s nomination list is an outstanding reflection on all that is great within the Scots Trad Music scene.
“The Caird Hall is a tremendous venue for the awards and the MG ALBA team is delighted to be in a position to continue to sponsor the event and fund the BBC ALBA commissioned live programme showcasing the event once again.”
As well as all the category sponsors and the event’s headline sponsor, this year’s awards are taking place with funding support from The Northwood Trust and Dundee City Council.
Voting opened yesterday and closes on Sunday, November 19.
Alan Morrison, head of music at Creative Scotland, said: “Scotland’s traditional music continues to thrive because our heritage, which draws from rich indigenous languages, is passed on from generation to generation. As the nominations are unveiled for this year’s awards, it’s time to cast your vote for the music that matters to you.”
A full list of nominations can be found at www.scotstradmusicawards.com where votes can be cast.
