Tag: music

Full Line-up Announced for Soundhouse Winter Festival

Thursday 27 November to Monday 1 December 2025

www.soundhousewinterfest.com

The 2025 Soundhouse Winter Festival returns from Thursday 27 November to Monday 1 December at the Traverse Theatre in Edinburgh, thanks to support from The National Lottery through Creative Scotland.

The festival showcases musicians either from, or based in Scotland, and runs over St Andrews Day and the Fair Saturday weekend. The programme includes some of Scotland’s finest jazz, and trad musicians, a showcase of emerging new musicians, music workshops for adults and young people, and a silent film accompanied by live music.

Headliners include experimental folk band Constant Follower led by songwriter Steven McAll playing tracks from their latest album Let the Healing Begin which has recently been added to the long list for the Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) award, 2024’s Scottish Jazz Vocalist of the Year Niki King; genre blending spoken word artist, rapper, and rising star Bee Asha; andguitarist Chris Amer and his Sextet (Matt Carmichael, Fergus McCreadie, Gus Stirrat, Stephen Henderson and Mhairi Marwick) performing music from their new collection Making Peace With What Is.

In addition, award-winning Scottish composer and guitarist Graeme Stephen will present his score for the 1927 silent film Metropolis, performedby Stephen on guitar and a classical string quartet lead by Fiona Winning on viola.

The quartet is completed by Tom Hanky (violin), George Smith (violin) and Robert Irvine (‘cello). Graeme will also be giving a non-participatory masterclass in Developing Concepts for Composition, Improvisation and Practice, for learners to explore creative ways to turn their ideas into compositions.

Other highlights over the weekend include harpist and lead vocalist Dara Dubh performing fan favourites and new tracks with Tony McVey on drums, Eve Simpson on keys/vocals and Brad Phillips on doublebass.

Multi-instrumentalist and folk singer Cahalen Morrison performing songs from his forthcoming album with his freshly minted trio; and jazz saxaphonist Rachel Duns, whose music ranges from blues and soul, to thepsychedelic sounds of the 1960s.

Over the weekend, audiences will also be treated to an afternoon concert from Scottish/Egyptian instrumentalists and composers The Ayoub Sisters who rose to stardom after their debut album premiered at No.1 in the Official Classical Charts.

Plus, three emerging artists playing in this year’s Spotlight concert, showcasing the very best up and coming jazz musicians in Scotland.

They include guitarist and double bass player Timmy Allan who won the BBC Scotland Young Jazz Musician of the Year Award in 2024 and this year’s Alan McAuley Jazz Award; The Ewan Johnston Trio formed of pianist Ewan Johnston, Christopher Quinnon on bass and Roan Anderson on drums; and the Milele Collective a young five-piece making waves on the Scottish scene with their jazz, latin and afro grooves.

In addition, cellist and improvisor Simone Seales will be giving an Improvisation Workshop for beginners on how to make sound without musical notation, open to amateur or experienced instrumentalists, vocalists or musicians from any other discipline.  

Douglas Robertson and Jane-Ann Purdy, co-producers said: “After last year’s multi-genre celebration of the Scottish music scene, we are delighted to be back for our second annual Soundhouse Winter Festival.

“We’ll be presenting jazz, pop, rap, classical, soul, funk, folk, trad, and many points where those categories intersect. It will be heartwarming, life affirming and a great antidote to the November blues. We extend a warm welcome to all: come and be part of Edinburgh’s great music-loving community.“

Alan Morrison, Head of Music at Creative Scotland said: “The closes and wynds of the capital are about to come alive as the Soundhouse Winter Festival returns to Edinburgh with another excellent array of rising stars and familiar faces.

“This compact and perfectly curated programme offers plenty of opportunities to discover new talent across an extended weekend in November, with must-see gigs each and every day.

“Organised by the same people as Edinburgh’s rejuvenated Tradfest, the quality of music is guaranteed to be top-level, with something to suit all tastes.”

Booking link for tickets – soundhousewinterfest.com

Forth Awards tickets now on sale to celebrate local heroes across Edinburgh and the Lothians

The Forth Awards, presented by Livingston Designer Outlet, has announced tickets are now on sale for listeners and fans to join the star-studded ceremony this autumn.

Taking place at The Usher Hall on 13th November 2025, the awards show will feature performances from top names in music and entertainment, whilst honouring and celebrating community heroes. 

Tickets now on sale from £28.60 via forth1.com and The Usher Hall Box Office 

Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult

One of the biggest nights in Edinburgh’s music calendar, The Forth Awards honours local heroes and organisations going over and above for their community, as well as a top-secret line-up of celebrities from across music and entertainment.

Previous winners and performances include Lewis Capaldi, Sophie Ellis Bextor, Deacon Blue, Amy Macdonald, Erasure and Simple Minds, with the line-up kept secret until the day itself. 

Hosted by Boogie and Arlene from Forth 1’s breakfast show, the afternoon show is the perfect start to winter festivities, with fans, listeners and guests packing out the Capital’s Usher Hall to enjoy music, comedy and musical theatre performances.

Plus, the awards panel reviews hundreds of listener nominations for categories that recognise those who go the extra mile in communities across Edinburgh and the Lothians – from the best teachers, restaurants and workplaces as well as the Forth Cash for Kids award. 

Richie Jeffrey, Commercial Events Manager from Hits Radio Scotland said, “We are so proud that The Forth Awards at The Usher Hall is back again and we can’t wait to reveal a stunning line up and, of course, some wonderful winners.

“Tickets are selling fast as always so if people want to come and join in the fun, they should act now.

 “It’s always a spectacular afternoon filled with fun and laughter, and amazing celebrations of outstanding achievement from Edinburgh and the Lothians.”

The Forth Awards 2025 Categories 

The Forth Best Artist Award with Victor Paris

The Forth Best Restaurant Award with Saltire

The Forth Contribution to Music Award with The Liquid Room

The Forth Icon Award with The Edinburgh Playhouse

The Forth Fringe Award with Watermans

The Forth Cash for Kids Award with Newtown Décor

The Forth Best Teacher Award with Omni Shopping

The Forth Best Workplace Award with Fuse

The Forth Visitor Attraction Award

The Forth Local Hero Award

Singing, selfies and self-expression!

Marco’s unveils first-of-its-kind interactive karaoke room

Got the voice of an angel? The soul of a disco diva? Or the raw energy of a rock god? Or perhaps you see yourself more as a Simon Cowell figure, wielding the power of the red button and letting your friends know exactly what you think of their singing!

Whatever kind of music you’re into, the brand-new interactive karaoke room at Marco’s is the place for uninhibited singing, selfies and self-expression. 

Described as a bold, immersive, musical playground, this private room features hand-painted cityscape murals, quirky lighting and interactive props — all designed to make revellers feel like they’ve snuck into a rooftop party above the city.

Visitors can choose their top tunes, set the mood with their choice of lighting effects, then take to the stage. The audience can show just how impressed (or unimpressed!) they are by the performance by pressing buttons that play hilarious snippets and soundbites of praise and put-downs from well-known celebrities. 

Those wanting to wet their whistle while they wait for their time in the limelight can choose from a huge selection of craft beers and cocktails, as well as more than 50 gins – and order them via a retro phone booth. And if belting out hit after hit works up an appetite, they can order fresh, stone-baked pizzas and have them delivered straight to the room.

This fully immersive, interactive karaoke room is unlike any other, continuing Marco’s legacy as entertainment trailblazers.

Speaking ahead of the launch, owner Paul Demarco commented; “Marco’s was the first ever big screen karaoke venue of its kind in the country, kickstarting the karaoke craze in Scotland.

“Back in the 1980s, more than 500 people would flock to Marco’s karaoke per night at the weekend to sing their hearts out. And now this extensive redesign has taken karaoke at Marco’s to the next level. It’s a unique and creative setting that’s perfect for showcasing talent, making memories and capturing it all on social media.” 

The unveiling of the interactive karaoke room is just the latest development at Marco’s as it continues to challenge preconceptions of a traditional pool hall. From the edgy, graffitied walls and life-size subway carriage art installation, to the retro video games and fun interactive dartboards – Marco’s has upped its game and cemented its position as one of Edinburgh’s most creative entertainment venues. 

The interactive karaoke room at Marco’s is available for private hire for groups of 6-16 people, with prices starting at just £30 per hour. It’s perfect for keeping the whole family entertained during the day, and will no doubt also prove popular with corporate, stag and hen parties in the evening.

Collective Gala this weekend

SUNDAY 7th SEPTEMBER 11am – 5pm

We are so excited to welcome you to our Gala Day next Sunday 7 September, 11am–5pm! Join us for a free day of art, music, tours, makers market and children’s creative play, and scroll down to view the schedule for the day.

You can already pre-book your tickets for Jean Bareham’s Democracy walking tour, and for Lisa Williams’ Black history walking tour!

Otherwise, everything is bookable on the day at our sign-up desk. 

Click here for more access information about our site.

Join the Botanics Choir for autumn term

TUESDAY EVENINGS from 5.30 – 7pm

🎶

Love plants? Love singing? Join our friendly community choir as we celebrate the changing of seasons with plant-inspired songs 🍂

Whether you’re a choir enthusiast or first-time singer, everyone is welcome. No singing experience is required and you don’t need to audition.

🌱 We meet every week in person. Term starts on Tuesday 9 September at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

TONIGHT: An evening of music inspired by the work of John Bellany

Musical performance by Steph Legg and ensemble at St Giles’ Cathedral

TONIGHT, audiences are invited to experience the life and work of one of Scotland’s most important painters through an entirely new medium: music.

On Thursday 28 August, which marks the anniversary of John Bellany’s death, saxophonist and composer Steph Legg will perform her debut album, Bellany, in the stunning surrounds of St Giles’ Cathedral.

A deeply personal and imaginative project, Bellany transforms the painter’s bold, autobiographical vision into a rich, genre-blending soundscape.

Steph was first captivated by Bellany’s work as a child after encountering his 1995 painting The Skate and the Kate. That moment sparked a lifelong fascination with his vivid imagery, religious symbolism, and deep reflections on Scottish identity, all of which find voice in this moving musical tribute.

Performed by a dynamic ensemble featuring:

  • Steph Legg (saxophone and voice)
  • Julia Hart (violin)
  • Cameron Smith (cello)
  • Erin Sawicka (piano)

The performance leads audiences through a folk inspired chasm into the centre of Bellany’s world, exploring the social and religious themes of his work and visiting key people, places and events which shaped him.

The ensemble paint their own portraits of this complex character and as the final chords fade out, the fragments of Bellany interfuse to reveal his extraordinary life.

This special event coincides with the City Art Centre’s major exhibition, John Bellany: A Life in Self-Portraiture, on display nearby until 28 September.

The exhibition features over 80 works spanning Bellany’s remarkable career. The performance is accompanied by the installation of Bellany’s 1965 work Box Meeting which is on show in St. Giles’ until end of September.

Culture and Communities Convener Cllr Margaret Graham said: “Steph Legg’s Bellany is a powerful and deeply original response to the life and legacy of one of Scotland’s most celebrated artists.

“Her music captures the same emotional intensity and storytelling spirit that define Bellany’s works. We’re thrilled to see this performance complement our current exhibition, John Bellany: A Life in Self-Portraiture and offering audiences a rare opportunity to experience his work in both sight and sound.

Two weeks to go until Scotland’s most family friendly and affordable street party kicks off in ancient capital

With just two weeks until one of Scotland’s most spectacular cultural celebrations, families from across the country are preparing to descend on Perth for 125 Live! – an extraordinary street party that promises world-class entertainment at pocket-friendly prices.

Taking place on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September, 125 Live! will transform Perth’s Mill Street into Scotland’s biggest family-friendly street party, celebrating 125 years of entertainment in the historic city.

With adult tickets for the evening performances capped at just £20 and a comprehensive programme of free daytime activities for all the family, the event offers exceptional value at a time when household budgets are under pressure.

In 2025, families are increasingly seeking “celebreaktions” – celebratory experiences where adults can relax while children are entertained, and 125 Live! delivers exactly this combination.

The event’s accessibility extends beyond pricing, with Perth’s unique location placing it within 90 minutes’ travel time of 90% of Scotland’s population – making it easier than ever for families to create lasting memories without the expense of overnight stays.

“We’ve deliberately kept ticket prices low with a maximum adult price of £20, plus a family ticket offer so that the event is accessible to as many people as possible,” explains Christopher Glasgow, Director of Perth Theatre and Concert Hall. 

“Our Ticket Bank with Perth Citizens Advice Bureau also gives audiences the option to buy tickets for those whose financial circumstances may not otherwise allow them to attend.”

Leading the stellar evening line-up is Walt Disco, the Glasgow glam-pop sensation whose debut album earned Scottish Album of the Year nominations. Fresh from their biggest US tour yet – over 30 dates supporting Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark – the six-piece band includes three Perth-raised members, making their hometown debut extra special.

The carefully curated programme showcases Scotland’s diverse musical landscape, featuring:

  • Valtos – Skye’s innovative trad and electronic duo making their Perth debut;
  • Parliamo – Perth’s own indie darlings praised by BBC Radio 1 and 6 Music;
  • Ross Ainslie & The Sanctuary Band – the dynamic Perthshire piper who performed at Perth Concert Hall’s opening 20 years ago;
  • Jack David – Scottish DJ and songwriter with over 200 million streams;
  • Musical theatre stars Hannah Howie & Matthew Tomlinson alongside local students.

Understanding the needs of modern families, 125 Live! offers a full day of FREE activities before the evening ticketed performances:

  • Drop-in workshops and activities for all ages;
  • Beatles for Babies* interactive shows (perfect for 0-3 year olds);
  • Gig On A Truck performances sponsored by St Johnstone FC;
  • Family-friendly performances throughout the day;
  • Food stalls and festival atmosphere in the heart of Perth.

*Beatles for Babies tickets £8 (1 adult + 1 baby)

Unlike traditional festivals, the 125 Live! evening event presents a unique sequential performance across four live stages stretching from Perth Concert Hall Plaza to Perth Theatre Courtyard repeated over two nights. The evening will be enhanced by:

  • Dramatic projections from Catalonian visual artist Alba Corral (her first UK outdoor work);
  • Spectacular light show by award-winning designer Will Potts (whose credits include Disclosure and Sam Smith);
  • Live projections bringing Mill Street’s buildings to life;
  • Pyrotechnic finale to cap off each evening.

With affordable travel becoming increasingly important for Scottish families, Perth’s central location makes 125 Live! uniquely accessible. Major transport links connect the city to (travel time is an average):

  • Glasgow (1 hour by train)
  • Edinburgh (1 hour 15 minutes by train)
  • Stirling (45 minutes by train)
  • Dundee (30 minutes by train)
  • Aberdeen (1 hour 45 minutes by train)
  • Inverness (2 hours 15 minutes by train)

Free parking is available at nearby locations, with clear signage directing visitors to the Mill Street venue entrance via Perth Concert Hall Plaza.

More than just entertainment, 125 Live! represents a genuine community celebration. Local groups, schools, and organisations are participating alongside international stars, creating an authentic Scottish festival atmosphere that reflects the venues’ 125-year history of bringing people together.

Hannah Howie, musical theatre headliner, said: “What a privilege to celebrate this iconic space here in the heart of Scotland with the very best of all things musical, theatrical and joyful; roll on the next 125.”

Tickets and Information

Evening Performance Tickets: From £15 (under 18s) to £20 (adults); Family ticket £40 (max two adults) Daytime Activities: Completely FREE* Doors: 18:00 for evening shows Venue: Mill Street, Perth (entering via Perth Concert Hall Plaza).

*Excluding Beatles for Babies priced at £8 for 1 adult + 1 baby.

Tickets are available now at perththeatreandconcerthall.com or by calling the Perth Theatre Box Office on 01738 621031 (10:00 – 18:00, Tuesday – Saturday).

For families requiring financial assistance, the Ticket Bank scheme provides opportunities to obtain tickets through Perth Citizens Advice Bureau.

Annual Showcase Event: The Forget Me Notes project

TUESDAY 2nd SEPTEMBER at ST BRIDE’S CENTRE

The Forget Me Notes project, an established Edinburgh based charity which offers a wide range  of musical entertainment, therapy and support to those who are living with, or who are affected by dementia, will be hosting its annual showcase event on Tuesday 2nd September at St Bride’s Centre, Orwell Terrace.

The showcase will feature a number of drop-in events between 1045am and 2pm, enabling those in attendance to learn more about the activities of the charity, including an introduction to its volunteer project and an opportunity to meet the chief executive of Forget Me Notes along with one of the charity’s trustees.

Music is at the core of Forget Me Notes’ activities and this will be provided throughout the event by both Kenny Vass and his band along with a series of musical interludes from the various musicians and singers who perform for the charity on a regular basis at care homes, day centres, community centres and other venues, including a fortnightly concert at the Saughton Park bandstand.

Admission to the showcase is free and lunch will be provided.

Later in the day, starting at 6.30pm, there will be a live performance from Kenny’s band featuring music from the1950s and 1960s. Dressing up to reflect the fashions of that period is encouraged (although not essential).

The evening event is ticketed, with tickets available from eventbrite.com at a cost of £10 for adults and £5 for children.

Further details regarding the activities of the Forget Me Notes project and be found at www.forgetmenotes.org.uk