music – Page 11 – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

Young local talent take to the stage in Tinderbox Collective and Granton Youth’s new all-day festival, NxNW

Tinderbox Collective and Granton Youth new launch youth-powered festival, showcasing the city’s most exciting emerging artists at The Pitt Granton on World Music Day.

The Tinderbox Collective and Granton Youth come together to ignite Granton with the NxNW All-Dayer at The Pitt – a festival-style celebration of Edinburgh’s thriving youth music scene.

Taking place on World Music Day, 21st June 2025, this packed one-day event will showcase nine exceptional young acts, all aged between 15-21, across indie rock, folk, alt-pop and more, all united by their development through Tinderbox and Granton Youth’s transformative Mixtape programme.

Following multiple sold-out NxNW nights at Leith Depot and The Mash House, this All-Dayer version expands the format to meet overwhelming demand, offering both established followers and new audiences the chance to discover Scotland’s most exciting emerging artists in one electrifying location.

The Lineup: A Showcase of Edinburgh’s Rising Stars

The lineup features an electrifying mix of emerging talent, each with their own unique story. Kicking off the day at 3:15 PM is Kieran Crosbie, a singer-songwriter whose journey into music began through Tinderbox’s hospital outreach programme. Later in the day, The Citrines take the stage, led by 16-year-old Abi, whose band are fast becoming a staple of Edinburgh’s grassroots scene.

The evening crescendos with two acts fresh from Hit The Road, Scotland’s national youth music tour: Ace & All The Other Animals and Low Tide, whose recent tour together has cemented their reputation as ones to watch. Edinburgh-born singer songwriter Lewis McLaughlin and psychedelic pop duo Logan’s Close also join the bill in support of the day.

The lineup for the day spans alt-rock to intimate folk, with the following performances:

3:15pm to 3:45pm - Kieran Crosbie

4pm to 4:30pm - Leon Highway

4:45pm to 5:15pm - Parma Violence

5:30pm to 6pm - Logans Close

6:15pm to 6:45pm - Silenced Blue

7pm to 7:30pm – The Citrines

7:45pm to 8:15pm - Ace & All The Other Animals

8:25pm to 9:10pm – Lewis McLaughlin

9:15pm to 10pm – Low Tide

For some, like Kieran, getting involved with Tinderbox has been hugely impactful, offering opportunities they would not have found elsewhere: “I started playing guitar at 12 years old and got involved with Tinderbox through my guitar teacher.

“From that I joined Tinderbox’s ‘Sparks’ project and played at Dynamic Earth performing a collaborative piece of music we had been working on.

“I’m really looking forward to playing the NxNW All Dayer because its such a nice venue and the atmosphere at NxNW is always amazing!”

For others, like The Citrines, working with Tinderbox has provided the launchpad for their first major gigs and recordings.

Reflecting on her experience with Tinderbox, Lead singer of The Citrines, Abi said: “The first gig we played that I was really properly proud of was the NxNW at the Mash House last year.

“I was buzzing when I got off that stage. It’s helped us branch out, meet other musicians, and build our confidence performing.

Discussing the Pitt All Dayer further, Abi added: “This line-up is amazing – rock music, folk music, rap – and so many talented people I know through Mixtape and Tinderbox. It’s going to be such a good day in such a cool venue.”

The event builds on the growing success of Tinderbox’s NxNW (North by Northwest) series, a community-rooted platform for young artists that champions creativity, collaboration and the power of live performance.

The NxNW All Dayer is a rare chance to experience the future of Scottish music in its rawest, most exciting form.

Tickets are available now via Ticketsource:
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/tinderbox-collective/nxnw-all-dayer-at-the-pitt-granton/e-qdamor

Love Actually In Concert: 16 date UK tour announced with Orchestra

This Christmas, Love Actually, perhaps one of the most quotable and adored Christmas films of all time, will be presented live in concert, with a full orchestra playing its score live-to-film.

The film will be brought to life on a 16-date UK wide tour, following a sell-out run last Christmas. Kicking off on 28th November in Poole and taking in all major cities across the UK, the tour will run right up until the 17th December.

‘A stunning orchestra provides the perfect festive ambience.’ Yorkshire Live

‘The whole performance was simply spectacular, enhancing the magic of this classic Christmas movie tenfold’ Bournemouth Echo

The score for Love Actually was written by Golden Globe®, BAFTA and Emmy-winning Scottish composer Craig Armstrong OBE, known for his work on films such as Me Before You, Moulin Rouge, Far From The Madding Crowd and Elizabeth: The Golden Age.

The score and music for Love Actually is considered some of the most recognisable across the modern romcom genre, featuring covers of Mariah Carey’s All I Want For Christmas Is You and the Troggs’ Love Is all Around.

Written and directed by Richard Curtis, Love Actually follows 10 different, yet interweaving stories of love around the festive period, involving a variety of individuals, many of whom are interlinked as the plot progresses.

The film boasts an all-star cast, featuring Liam Neeson, Colin Firth, Laura Linney, Bill Nighy, Martine McCutcheon, Alan Rickman, Emma Thompson, Keira Knightley, Rowan Atkinson, Martin Freeman and many more.

Tour dates:

28th November           Poole Lighthouse
29th November           Portsmouth Guildhall
30th November           Brighton Centre

1st December              Liverpool Philharmonic Hall
3rd December              Manchester Bridgewater Hall
4th December              Southend Cliffs Pavilion
5th December              Bath Forum
6th December              London Eventim Apollo *Matinee and evening performances
7th December              Sheffield City Hall
8th December              Glasgow Royal Concert Hall
10th December            Aberdeen P&J Live
12th December            Birmingham Symphony Hall
14th December           Edinburgh Usher Hall
15th December            Nottingham Royal Concert Hall
16th December            York Barbican
17th December            Bradford Live

Highland Hoolie lineup confirmed

‘Whiskey Roll’ star Cammy Barnes and Scottish TikTok Sensation Nati Dredd help complete the toe-tapping line-up for June’s Royal Highland Hoolie

Scottish-based singer-songwriter Cammy Barnes, fresh from the success of his breakout single Whiskey Roll, which continues to sit within the Official Big Top 40 UK singles chart, is joining the wave of new talent performing at this year’s Royal Highland Hoolie, taking place on Friday 20th and Saturday 21st June at the Royal Highland Centre as part of the Royal Highland Show.

Cammy is quickly becoming one of Scotland’s most exciting musical exports. His raw vocals, heartfelt lyrics and commanding stage presence has earned him a fast-growing fanbase across the UK and his slot at the Hoolie on the Saturday is sure to be a standout moment of the weekend.

Cammy Barnes gave fans a taste of what’s to come with a pop-up gig at the Edinburgh taproom of official Royal Highland Show beer partner, Innis & Gunn at the Innis & Gunn Brewery Taproom, Lothian Road, Edinburgh, raising a glass, and the roof, with a short acoustic set for customers.

Cammy Barnes said: “This is my first time playing at the Royal Highland Hoolie and I can’t wait to experience its festival atmosphere!

“There’s really nothing quite like playing to a home crowd – the energy and banter is unparalleled. I’m buzzing to be taking to the stage on the Saturday night as part of an absolutely smashing line-up. It’s going to be magic night! Come join us on Saturday 21^st June at Royal Highland Centre!”

TikTok sensation Nati Dreddd, who boasts 1.8m followers on the social media platform thanks to her infectious energy and anthemic folk-pop sound will also perform at the Hoolie on the Friday evening.

Additional announcements include, festival favourites The Dangleberries, who will take to the stage on the Friday and whose high-octane blend of bagpipes, rock and Celtic rhythms guarantee a night to remember, and dynamic Nashville-based duo, Zach & Maggie, known for their contemporary take on Celtic and Appalachian music will perform on the Saturday evening.

The pair will be bringing authentic country vibes straight from Nashville to the Hoolie stage, offering a true taste of the American South in the heart of Ingliston.

All acts will be introduced by the charismatic Pat Canavan, who returns as special host for the weekend.

The newly announced acts will join previously announced headliners The Whistlin’ Donkeys on Friday and Nathan Carter on Saturday, alongside Trail West, Mànran, and The Tumbling Paddies – creating a line-up that showcases the very best in folk, country and Celtic music talent from both sides of the Irish Sea.

The Royal Highland Hoolie is produced by Farmers Bash.

Mark Currie, Royal Highland Centre Director of Venue, said: “From chart-topping artists to Nashville and Scottish folk favourites, the mix of musical talent we have on-board this year is outstanding and perfectly encapsulates the diversity and energy the event brings year-on-year.

“The Royal Highland Show is Scotland’s largest outdoor event, and the Hoolie is quickly becoming one of the highlights of the Show weekend. Don’t miss out on tickets for an unforgettable experience of music, community and good times!”

2025 marks the third year of Innis & Gunn acting as the official beer partner of the Royal Highland Show.

Standalone Hoolie tickets are priced at £39 and available to purchase now via the Royal Highland Show website: www.royalhighlandshow.org.uk.

The Royal Highland Hoolie continues to grow each year, bringing top-tier live music to Scotland’s biggest agricultural event.

Friday: Hard Rock DJ Night

As Robbie Williams prepares to take to the Murrayfield stage at the end of May, Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh is kicking things off early to celebrate his arrival in the capital.

On Friday 30^th May, Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh turns back the clock for one night only to host the exclusive Hard ‘Rock DJ’ Night, celebrating the best of 90s music and nightlife.

From 7pm until late, the iconic George Street venue will come alive with a high-energy DJ set packed with 90s floor-fillers, sing-along classics and Robbie’s top hits, perfect for those who can’t make the concert the next day.

More than just a night of music, the restaurant will be serving up its full menu, available until 10:30 pm, featuring favourites such as the Legendary® Burgers, spicy wings, and signature cocktails, making it the perfect fuel for a night on the dancefloor.

Whilst the event is free to attend, reservations are highly recommended and can be made through OpenTable or Event Brite.

Benedetti Foundation: Making sweet music in Edinburgh

1600+ young people. 50 schools. 1 incredible week of music-making in Edinburgh

From 12–15 May, we were thrilled to bring our Strings Day Residency to the City of Edinburgh, reaching over 1600 children and young people across 50 schools!

We kicked off the week with live workshops in 9 primary schools – bringing music directly into classrooms and inspiring over 1200 learners. Then, in partnership with the amazing team at the City of Edinburgh Council Instrumental Music Service, we welcomed over 400 string players (including 122 cellists!) to an unforgettable Play Day for P5–P7 and S1 students.

With support from 25 local instructors, our incredible Foundation tutors, and a brilliant team of student ambassadors, young musicians explored two vibrant pieces – Bubble Pop and Enchanted Carousel written by the brilliant Joelle Broad– and ended the day with a joyful performance for their families.

We’re beyond proud to have shared this experience with so many budding musicians – and deeply grateful to our partners in Edinburgh for making it all possible.

Micaela Karina

Supported by The National Lottery through Creative Scotland.

#InspiringTheNextGeneration

Heading Down Under: The Royal Edinburgh Military Tatoo announces Australia and New Zealand tours

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has announced they will be touring the Show The Heroes Who Made Us in Australia and New Zealand in 2026.

The dazzling spectacle, a key part of the Scottish events calendar, will be performed in Brisbane and Auckland in February next year, and will include performances by national military forces from Australia and New Zealand as well as from the UK.

2025 marks the 75th Anniversary of the organisation and these events further extend the international reach of the Tattoo that traditionally takes place on the stunning Edinburgh Castle Esplanade every August with a global cast.

The Shows will take place 12 and 14 February at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium and in Auckland’s Eden Park, home of the All Blacks national rugby team, on 19 and 21 February. The Australian Defence Force will play a key role at the Brisbane Show, and the New Zealand Defence Force will do the same in Auckland.

The Shows will incorporate elements of this year’s Tattoo theme, The Heroes Who Made Us, spotlighting the individuals who have shaped and supported the iconic performances over the past 75 years. Top Secret Drum Corps will join the line-up, alongside other performer groups from New Zealand, Australia, the UK and from throughout the globe.

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has previously travelled down under to delight audiences with performances in Wellington, Syndey and Melbourne in 2000, 2005, 2010, 2016 and most recently in 2019 at the ANZ Stadium in Syndey. This tour will be the first time the spectacular event has been performed to Brisbane and Auckland audiences.

While The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Show has been screened at more than 150 cinemas across Australia and New Zealand in recent years, in 2026 people across the countries have the opportunity to once again truly experience the iconic spectacle in person.

If down under is too far to travel, tickets for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo 2025 75th Anniversary Show at Edinburgh Castle Esplanade are available at edintattoo.co.uk/tickets or by calling 0131 225 1188. For the Australia and New Zealand 2026 Show, tickets can be purchased tickets can be purchased from 21 May 2025 from Ticketek.

Jason Barrett, Chief Executive of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “We are thrilled to be bringing The Royal Edinburgh Military to Australia and New Zealand once again in 2026.

“Throughout the 75-year history, the Tattoo has proudly crossed oceans, continually reaching new audiences and connecting Tattoo fans in the unique Tattoo spirit. This upcoming tour will blend our Scottish traditions with the distinctive military heritage of Australia and New Zealand all set against the backdrop of two spectacular venues.

“We eagerly anticipate hosting new audiences and welcoming back Tattoo fans to witness a truly remarkable spectacle.”

Cello Recital at Stockbridge Library

WEDNESDAY 4th JUNE at 6pm – CARLA COSTE

Join us for an unforgettable evening of music with the incredibly talented Carla Coste -a renowned cellist who has performed as soloist and chamber musician at prestigious festivals across Europe, England and Asia.

On the day, Carla will be performing Suite numbers three and four by Johann Sebastian Bach, and a contemporary French piece by Graciane Finzi entitled “A strange Dream”

Don’t miss this chance to experience her captivating performance live at Stockbridge library on Wednesday 4th June at 6 pm!

Edinburgh Folk & Food Fest: Assembly Festival announce expansion of food festival for July 2025

Assembly Festival have today announced the expansion of the Edinburgh Food Festival, which takes place in George Square Gardens, to include live folk music.

The newly expanded Folk & Food Festival runs from 18 – 28 July and will include a host of delicious food and drinks from local traders, and a jam-packed programme of free and ticketed events and live folk music.

With performances from Duncan Chisholm, The Unthanks, The East Pointers and more, this is an exciting new addition to the Edinburgh festival scene.

On expanding the Folk & Food Festival, Assembly Festival Managing Director Dani Rae said; “We’re really excited for the Edinburgh Folk & Food Festival this year, having built an incredible programme of tasty treats over the years, it’s brilliant to add some of the best folk music in the business.

“We hope foodies and folkers come and join us for what is set to be our best one yet.”

On being part of the Folk & Food Festival, Duncan Chisholm said; ‘I am delighted to be a part of the Edinburgh Folk & Food Festival this year. The beautiful Spiegeltent Palais du Variété is an incredible venue, located in the heart of Edinburgh, at a time of year when everywhere in the city is buzzing.

“I will have a great band with me, performing on the opening night of the festival and we’re all looking forward to it very much.”

Tickets for the first Folk & Food Fest events are on sale 10am TODAY Friday 16 May at edfoodfest.com

St Columba’s: Time to Remember

FRIDAY 20 JUNE from 2 – 2.45pm

You’re invited to join us on Friday 20th June as we gather together to remember loved ones who have died.

This free event on the theme of ‘The Longest Day’ will feature quiet music, readings and reflections, an item to make and/or take home as well as the chance to pause and think about about loved ones.

Everyone is welcome at this inclusive, non-religious event, suitable for all ages.

Time: 2pm-2.45pm

Venue: No17, 17 Boswall Road, EH5 3RW

A seat must be booked for each person attending, including children. Book your place(s) today on our website:

https://stcolumbashospice.org.uk/events/time-to-remember

or email wellbeing@stcolumbashospice.org.uk.

Edinburgh International Festival celebrates record-breaking Youth Participation with 25 Years of Art of Listening Workshops

2025 FESTIVAL PROGRAMME RUNS FROM 1–24 AUGUST 2025

eif.co.uk / @edintfest

Edinburgh International Festival’s Art of Listening workshops celebrate 25 years of inspiring schoolchildren through live classical music, reaching a record 3,000 young people in 2025, and expanding with a new family-friendly workshop open to the public.
A summer programme for young people includes an interactive Family Concert, a free outdoor singalong event The Big Singalong, and the Young Musician’s Pass, a programme offering over 2,000 free concert tickets to young music fans.
From Discover Opera school tours set to introduce over 1,000 pupils to opera this year, to ongoing initiatives that bring events to community and healthcare settings, the Festival’s year-round programmes deeply engage with Edinburgh’s communities, enhancing wellbeing and expanding access to live performance.

This year the Edinburgh International Festival’s flagship workshop Art of Listening celebrates 25 years of bringing live classical music to schoolchildren across Edinburgh.

Across this quarter century, the workshop has been delivered to an approximate approximate 23,000 pupils, and so far in 2025 has reached an unprecedented 3,000 young people — its largest audience to date.

Designed for pupils aged 10-12, Art of Listening introduces children to the artforms of classical music and opera through an imaginative blend of live performance, songs and activities. Taking place at the International Festival’s home, The Hub, these two-hour workshops feature music ranging from Beethoven and Britten to the Harry Potter film scores and Taylor Swift.

Led by a facilitator, professional opera singer and pianist, the sessions encourage participants to engage their imaginations, strengthen listening skills and respond creatively to music. For many children, this is their first experience of live classical music.

The workshop has been delivered across every ward in Edinburgh, and are offered every year to every state primary school in the city, anchoring the International Festival’s strong commitment to culturally impacting the cultural and civic life of the city.

For the first time, Art of Listening for Families will also be open to the public as part of the International Festival’s 2025 programme, with an interactive workshop designed for children aged 7-11 and their accompanying adults to discover the joy of active listening together.

Back due to popular demand, the Family Concert is recommended for ages 7-11, but suitable for all ages. In a special interactive introduction to classical music, Scottish musical traditions are contrasted with the sounds of America, performed by the inspirational young musicians of the National Youth Orchestra 2 from New York’s prestigious Carnegie Hall, with presenter Lucy Drever introducing the musicians and the music.

During the International Festival’s opening weekend, singing enthusiasts of all ages are also invited to Princes Street Gardens’ Ross Bandstand for The Big Singalong, a free event led by Stephen Deazley, artistic director of Edinburgh’s Love Music Community Choir.

Every year, the International Festival’s Young Musician’s Pass opens up opportunities for young people who live in Scotland and play a musical instrument or sing to discover a world of music for free.

With over 2000 tickets available, each budding musician can claim up to three pairs of free tickets for Festival performances from the world’s finest orchestras and ensembles. A free scheme that is open to anyone aged 8-18, the full details and range of performances will be released today and can be found at www.eif.co.uk/ymp.

Secondary school pupils are invited to performances and activities during August across music, theatre, opera and dance in the Discover series, an annual commitment to creating pathways to each artform and foster a lifelong love of the arts. This year, Discover Opera tours Edinburgh schools in June to introduce 1,000 students to the story and music of Orpheus and Eurydice, as well as offering 500 tickets to students to attend the spectacular opera for free in August, enabling many to see opera on stage for the first time.

This summer will also see flagship projects that bring groups into the heart of August’s performances, developing long-term connections with Edinburgh’s communities to find ways to reflect the ideas, ambitions and creative interests of different groups within the International Festival’s year-round work.

In 2025, for the first time the International Festival has established a Youth Collective, inviting fifteen young people from across Edinburgh to co-create the youth experience of the 2025 Festival, such as a Youth Takeover Day for senior pupils from across Edinburgh.

Culture Clubs for community groups, and pop-up performances at NHS settings, with the NHS Lothian Charity, extend the joy of the International Festival beyond concert hall and theatres, into local communities.

The International Festival’s multi-year Community Connections Hub partnership with Space @ Broomhouse Hub also continues, creating work experience opportunities for young people, co-curated projects and inviting artists including Aga Khan Masters, London Symphony Orchestra and Scottish Ballet to connect with the Broomhouse community.

Nicola Benedetti, Edinburgh International Festival Director, said: “For a quarter of a century, Art of Listening has opened the doors of classical music to thousands of Edinburgh’s young people.

It’s a programme rooted in the belief that live performance should be accessible to everyone, and we’re thrilled to welcome a record number of eager schoolchildren in 2025. Expanding the workshops to families in our 2025 Festival marks a wonderful new chapter, inviting audiences across generations to connect with music in fresh and inspiring ways.”

Caroline Donald, Head of Discovery and Participation said: “Removing financial barriers and creating a welcoming space for families and schools are cornerstones of the year-round work we do.

“The International Festival provides workshops like Art of Listening free of charge to all participating schools, including transport costs, ensuring children from all backgrounds can experience the power of live classical music — often for the very first time.

“Underpinning the International Festival is an ambition to build relationships and offer meaningful, valued, world-expanding experiences through the performing arts, and we’re excited to continue our work with the young people of Edinburgh and their communities.”

Tickets to experience the Art of Listening for Families and other performances at the 2025 Edinburgh International Festival are available at www.eif.co.uk.

For full information about the International Festival’s year-round work, visit www.eif.co.uk/social-impact.