The search is on for a young traditional musician who could benefit from an international travel bursary through a collaborative initiative between the Saltire Society, Fèisean nan Gàidheal and the British Council Scotland.
Celebrating its 80th year, the Saltire Society has invited Fèisean nan Gàidheal to identify a young musician or singer with exceptional potential who can demonstrate how an international experience would add to their musical development.
The bursary is being funded by the British Council Scotland and follows a similar initiative two years ago, which afforded former Fèis Rois participant and Gaelic speaker, Innes White, the opportunity to learn about the music connected to another minority language, Catalan. Innes – who now plays regularly with the Mischa MacPherson Trio and the John McCusker Band – spent time in Catalonia to learn some of the language and about the traditional music and dance associated with it.
Jim Tough, Executive Director of the Saltire Society said: “We are delighted to continue this project with the support of the British Council Scotland which gives offers a fantastic opportunity for a young musician to research and explore their own creative ideas in an international context. The British Council Scotland and Saltire Society share a commitment to encouraging young Scots to have an international outlook and the success of Fèisean nan Gàidheal at home and abroad makes them the perfect partners in this venture.”
Fèisean nan Gàidheal will be promoting the opportunity across its network, and beyond, in an effort to identify a worthy recipient of the award which consists of £1,500 to enable the recipient to pursue a research project, including international travel related to their practice, together with a certificate and membership of the Saltire Society.
The organisation’s Chief Executive, Arthur Cormack, explains: “Fèisean nan Gàidheal is always on the lookout for opportunities that enhance the experience of young people involved in Gaelic culture and traditional music. This International Travel Bursary offers a fabulous opportunity for a young musician to explore their craft in an international context and we look forward to working again with the Saltire Society and the British Council Scotland in finding the best recipient for this year’s award.”
The closing date for applications is Friday 26 August 2016. Details of how to apply are available here. All nominated entrants will receive one year’s membership of the Saltire Society and the successful musician will be required to perform at the Saltire Celebrates event at Òran Mòr in Glasgow on 30 November at which they will receive the award.
