The influence of traditional Scottish Music

Feel Scotland's rhythm in spring 2025

• Mull Music Festival, 24 - 27 April, Argyll
• Shetland Folk Festival, 1 - 4 May, Shetland
• Edinburgh Tradfest, 2 - 12 May, Edinburgh
• SkyeLive, 8 - 10 May, Isle of Skye
• Orkney Folk Festival, 22 - 25 May, Orkney
• Knockengorroch World Ceilidh, 22 - 25 May, Dumfries & Galloway
• Islay Festival, 23 - 31 May, Argyll

Deeply rooted in Scotland’s cultural heritage, traditional Scottish music, often synonymous with Scottish folk music, encompasses a diverse range of styles, from ballads to reels (lively fast-paced tunes), jigs (quick, lively dance-tunes with a 6/8-time signature), and airs (slow melodic tunes). With origins tracing back thousands of years, trad music holds a significant place in Scotland's musical legacy. 

Iconic Scottish instruments like the bagpipes have long been associated with this genre, with a legacy dating back to the 15th century. However, the musical landscape of Scotland extends far beyond the bagpipes. Scottish music can be traced back over 2,300 years ago since the discovery of Western Europe's earliest stringed instrument - a lyre-like artifact found on the Isle of Skye. 

The first published traces of Scottish music are from 1662, when John Forbes of Aberdeen published the earliest printed anthology of secular music in Scotland, earning recognition as the first known published collection featuring traditional Scottish songs. Nonetheless, The Scots Musical Museum, published in 1787, stands as one of the most influential compilations of traditional Scottish folk music.  

Today, one of the most popular genres of Scottish trad music, Celtic rock, has emerged from the harmonious blend of traditional Gaelic music and rock. It brings together the conventional sounds of electric guitar, bass guitar and drums, with the rustic charm of acoustic Scottish folk instruments.  

Bagpipes 

Bagpipes, a quintessential Scottish instrument, consist of, you guessed it - a bag and pipes! Bagpipes are one of the three national instruments of Scotland, along with the fiddle and the clàrsach. 

When talking about bagpipes, we need to mention the Great Highland Bagpipe, an iconic symbol of Scottish musical tradition and a true testament to Scotland’s rich cultural heritage. This wind instrument, which consists of a bag, drones, chanter, and blowpipe, radiates a commanding presence with its resonant, stirring tones. 

Tin whistle

Closely associated with Celtic music, the tin whistle may look simple on the outside, especially compared to the complexity of the bagpipe, but it’s incredibly effective. It is often referred to as the Penny Whistle, reflecting a time when it could be purchased for just a penny. 

The clàrsach

Preceding even the bagpipe, the clàrsach (Scottish Gaelic for harp) holds the prestigious title of Scotland's oldest national instrument. It was considered the cornerstone of Gaelic country music, weaving enchanting melodies long before other instruments. The origins of this musical instrument go all the way back to the 8th century, shown through early depictions on Pictish stones.  

Bodhran drum

Playing the bodhrán involves striking both the skin and the wooden frame using a beater or hand, depending on the desired sound. While rooted in Irish tradition, it’s commonly featured in Scottish folk music, providing rhythmic accompaniment for dances and tunes. 

Ceilidh dance

When diving into the vibrant world of Scottish tunes, you can't help but get your groove on with a Ceilidh dance! Originally, they were simple local gatherings, but later expanded and developed into literary entertainments with storytelling, recitations and songs. Instrumental music and dancing came after that to form what we now call a Ceilidh dance. 

Modern Ceilidh dances are all about creating connections, building a strong sense of community, and, most importantly, having a blast on the dancefloor. Whether you're in it for the dance moves, the music, or just soaking up the good vibes, get ready for an unforgettable time!