MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards opens Public Vote for Shortlisted Nominees, and returns to Glasgow, live & on screens, for 2021
The MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards annual Gala rocks the scene by championing top Scottish traditional musicians of all genres, recognising, and celebrating the wealth of talent via phenomenal performances, which this year will be live at Glasgow’s Engine Works, and on BBC ALBA at 9.00pm on December 4th, 2021.
To vote for your favourite nominee, & all the latest news visit www.scotstradmusicawards.com
Alan Morrison, Head of Music at Creative Scotland said: “For many people, music is the heart and soul of their daily lives. During lockdown we lost not only concert-hall performances but also face-to-face lessons, fireside sessions, and community get-togethers.
“This year’s MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards ceremony is therefore a perfectly timed opportunity to celebrate both the return of our live music scene and the wonders that artists delivered online to keep the spirit of Na Trads alive during the darkest of days.
“Scotland’s traditional music continues to thrive because our heritage, which draws from rich indigenous languages, is passed on from generation to generation.
“That’s why Creative Scotland is particularly proud to sponsor the Janet Paisley Services to Scots Language Award and, through the Youth Music Initiative, the Music Tutor of the Year Award.
“We’re also delighted to support Hands Up For Trad and the vital work it does year-round.”
Featuring live performances from Ímar, Dàimh, Hannah Rarity, The Canny Band and more to come, the highly regarded annual Awards give recognition to excellence within Scotland’s thriving traditional musical culture.
With live music and event restrictions in place since lockdown began, Hands Up for Trad has been working hard since March 2020 to support artists and provide alternative platforms for musicians to reach their audiences, fundraise and sell tickets online, and following a successful Scots Language Awards in Dundee on September 25th, 2021, the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards in December marks their second live event since restrictions began, and a renewed partnership with MG ALBA to broadcast the Awards live.
Margaret Cameron, Commissioning Editor and Head of Creative Collaborations at MG ALBA said: “MG ALBA are proud to once again sponsor the Scots Trad Music Awards – we understand how important the traditional music scene is across Scotland, and in particular amongst our Gaelic communities.
“Being able to bring community moments such as the Trads to BBC ALBA at this special time of year for our audiences is a pleasure. It also recognizes these stellar artists and the ingenuity and resilience of the traditional music community after the challenges of the last 18 months.”
Encompassing all aspects of making and playing music from composing, Gaelic song, folk and Scottish dance music to pipe bands and a host of others in between, each year sees a lively and enthusiastic crowd enjoying some of the biggest names as the industry and audiences join to honour singers, instrumentalists, composers, and songwriters, including the prestigious Gaelic Singer of the Year, and Musician of the Year, Awards.
Anna-Wendy Stevenson, Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader BA (Hons) Applied Music confirmed: “As the music industry re-groups and adapts after the disruption of the pandemic it is crucial that we celebrate and showcase the incredible talent that drives the music industry and connects communities in a myriad of ways.
“The University of the Highlands and Islands is delighted to continue to sponsor the Musician of the Year Award and recognise the importance of the MG ALBA Scots Traditional Music Awards, in bringing together organisations across music in Scotland to support the development of and recognise the work and talent of our musicians.”
Duncan Byatt, President of the Highland Society of London, added: “Gaelic singing has been at the forefront of the recent surge of interest in learning and using Gaelic, and the Highland Society of London is delighted to sponsor the award for Gaelic Singer of the Year once again at the Trads.
“Our congratulations to each of the four nominees and to all who participate in this medium.”
This year the annual Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame is sponsored by Fèisean nan Gàidheal and will be a special feature within the main Awards.
Arthur Cormack, Chief Executive of Fèisean nan Gàidheal, said: “Fèisean nan Gàidheal believes in recognising the significant contribution to our culture of some of our most celebrated performers and we are delighted to once again support the Traditional Music Hall of Fame.
“The main focus of our work is supporting community Fèisean to pass on aspects of Gaelic culture and traditional music to young people. Gaelic and Scots culture relies on oral transmission, learning from the carriers of our songs, tunes, dances and stories.
“Over the past 18 months traditional musicians and singers have brought pleasure to people as never before so our thanks go to this year’s inductees with congratulations to them and their families.”
Within the Awards and the programme, three further pillars of the Scots Trad Music community will be recognised through special awards; the ‘Janet Paisley Services to Scots Language Award sponsored by Creative Scotland’, the ‘Services to Gaelic Award sponsored by Bòrd na Gàidhlig’, and the ‘Hamish Henderson Award for Services to Traditional Music’.
Stuart Fleming, Senior Relationship Manger for Scotland and Northern Ireland, PRS for Music, said: “PRS for Music is proud to once again be supporting the Original Work of the Year category at the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards.
“It is great to see these important awards returning to champion all the gifted, homegrown, creative writers within the traditional Scottish music scene.
“The pandemic has been challenging for us all, yet those shortlisted have continued to produce inspiring work.
“Our warmest congratulations to all of this year’s talented nominees, and we look forward to celebrating with you in person this December.”
Organising body, Hands Up for Trad funded by The National Lottery through Creative Scotland, was formed in 2002 and exists to increase the profile and visibility of Scottish traditional music through information, advocacy and education to artists, participants and audiences.
Hands Up for Trad’s Creative Director Simon Thoumire said: “Since lockdown it’s been a huge team effort to process the change needed, to provide musicians and crews with support due to cancelled gigs, and provide audiences with much needed entertainment and culture, so I am thankful and delighted with everyone who’s nominated and cannot wait to see live performances again this year, and work with MG ALBA to bring the atmosphere and the Trad Awards into living rooms.”
Please note, due to Covid-19 restrictions, only sponsors and nominees can attend this year’s Awards in person.
Public nominations ran from October 4th to 17th for the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards annual event organised by Hands Up for Trad, and the 2021 Nominees for Public Vote are:
Original Work of the Year sponsored by PRS for Music
1. Calum MacPhail – 7 Years Old
2. Fatma’s Waltz – Adam Sutherland
3. Dùsgadh – Breabach
4. The Driftwood Project – Jack Badcock
5. Wild Edges – Inge Thomson
Community Project of the Year sponsored by Greentrax Recordings
1. Cabraich Community Arts, Stornoway: Online Skills and Ceilidh
2. Dee and Don Ceilidh Collective’s ‘Our Rivers and Glens’ project
3. Riddell Fiddles’ Two Towns Housing Estate Youth Musical Outreach Programme
4. Stonehaven Folk Club Folk in Crisis Concerts
Event of the Year sponsored by VisitScotland
1. Capers in Cannich
2. Celtic Connections
3. Eden Court Under Canvas
4. In The Tradition – Edinburgh International Festival Traditional Music Programme 2021
5. NAAFC Festival
Gaelic Singer of the Year sponsored by The Highland Society of London
1. Ainslie Hamill
2. Iain ‘Costello’ Maciver
3. Kim Carnie
4. Mairi Macmillan
Musician of the Year sponsored by The University of the Highlands and Islands
1. Ali Levack
2. Findlay Napier
3. Ingrid Henderson
4. Iona Fyfe
5. Mhairi Hall
Online Performance of 2021 sponsored by Gordon Duncan Memorial Trust
1. Alec Dalglish Live Streams
2. An Tobar Summer Sessions
3. Làn-Dùil Online Festival
4. Norrie “Tago” MacIver Live Streams
5. Ron Jappy Vincular Album Launch
Citty Finlayson Scots Singer of the Year sponsored by Traditional Music and Song Association
1. Beth Malcolm
2. Calum McIlroy
3. Cameron Nixon
4. Ellie Beaton
Trad Video of the Year sponsored by Threads of Sound
1. Adahs Way – Ali Levack
2. Doddies Dream – Bruce MacGregor
3. Summer – Lewis McLaughlin
4. Mairead nan Cuiread – Mhairi Macmillan
5. Pretty Girl – Lapwyng (Valtos Remix)
Trad Music in the Media sponsored by Sabhal Mòr Ostaig
1. Ceòl is Cràdh’ (BBC ALBA)
2. Tartan Tunes
3. Taynuilt Ceilidh’s
4. The 22nd Annual Pipes of Christmas – 2020 / The Clan Currie Society / The Learned Kindred of Currie
Up and Coming Artist of the Year sponsored by Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
1. Arthur Coates
2. John Dew
3. Madderam
4. The Canny Band
Music Tutor of the Year Award sponsored by Creative Scotland’s Youth Music Initiative
1. Imogen Bose Ward, Fiddle
3. Isla Ratcliff, Scots Music Group
4. Michael Bryan, Guitar
5. Craig Muirhead, Director of Piping and Drumming at Strathallan School
Album of the Year sponsored by Birnam CD
1. And Den Dey Made Tae by Ross & Ryan Couper
2. Cairdeas by Brian Ó hEadhra & Fionnag NicChonnich
3. Gaol by Rachel Walker
4. Livewire by Mec Lir
5. MAIM by Whyte
6. Milestone by Duncan Lyall
7. Orkney Monster by The Chair
8. Still Time by Karen Matheson
9. The Light of The Moon by Gnoss
10. Where the World Is Thin by Kris Drever
MG ALBA has welcomed the announcement from the BBC that high definition (HD) is coming to BBC ALBA.
Currently, viewers can only enjoy programmes on the channel in standard definition (SD), although some output is available in HD on the BBC iPlayer.
This upgrade to BBC ALBA is part of a process that will see the BBC launch HD versions of BBC One in every region of England, as well as some additional core channels which are currently not HD.
The BBC has detailed that the rollout of HD will be a phased project, but it is anticipated to be complete by the end of 2022.
Welcoming the news, MG ALBA Chief Executive, Donald Campbell, said: “MG ALBA welcomes this commitment to delivering HD for BBC ALBA. We strive to deliver the best for our audiences and being able to watch programmes as they broadcast in HD will make a significant difference to the audience experience. We look forward to working with the BBC to ensure a smooth transition to full HD on BBC ALBA.”
BBC Scotland and BBC ALBA are to expand recent sports coverage collaboration, with BBC Scotland to enable an English language commentary option for BBC ALBA’s coverage of the remaining Scottish women’s national team World Cup qualifiers.
The increased choice for viewers is offered from Friday night’s BBC ALBA coverage of the Scotland game against Hungary at Hampden.
The option will continue across the remainder of the national team’s World Cup qualification campaign games, as well as the upcoming friendly against Sweden, all of which are exclusively available on BBC ALBA.
The move builds on cooperation such as that which saw the Camanachd Cup Final broadcast on BBC ALBA for the first time earlier in the year, with accompanying highlights on BBC Scotland.
Iseabail Mactaggart, Director of Multiplatform Content at MG ALBA, said: “We’re proud of BBC ALBA’s record in showcasing Scottish women’s sport, not least the women’s national football team.
“Our partnership with the BBC enables BBC ALBA to provide a powerful free-to-air platform for growing the profile of women’s sport, and this new step enables us to work with BBC Scotland to offer audiences a commentary choice for the national team games.
“Increased choice, with promotion across BBC Scotland’s portfolio of services, should further raise the profile of these matches.
“It demonstrates too how BBC ALBA and BBC Scotland can work together as free-to-air partners for the benefit of all audiences, women’s sport and sport stakeholders.
“This move will see our viewers welcomed to the usual highly accessible BBC ALBA coverage, including the distinctive half time features, while also enabling audiences to choose their preferred commentary language for the action.
“We see BBC ALBA’s sports coverage as an important door to Gaelic for non-Gaelic users, and that door remains as open as possible.”
Louise Thornton, Head of Commissioning, BBC Scotland, said:
“BBC Scotland is committed to showcasing Scottish women’s football and to further building the profile of the game.
“By working closely with our partners at BBC ALBA, we aim to bring in new audiences whilst also deepening the impact of these matches.
“We know how important live sport is to audiences and we will continue to seek innovative ways to showcase live action.”
To access the commentary choice viewers should select as follows:
• Connected TVs (TVs/Receivers connected to the internet): Press Red, a Menu will appear, select ‘Scotland v Hungary (English)’. Viewers can return to Gaelic commentary by pressing Exit or by returning to the BBC ALBA channel.
• Un-connected TVs (TVs/Receivers not connected to the internet): Press Red and select ‘SCO v HUN (English)’. Viewers can return to Gaelic commentary by also pressing Red and selecting ‘SCO v HUN (Gaelic)’ or by exiting and returning to the BBC ALBA channel.
Viewers can also select either commentary by visiting BBC ALBA in BBC iPlayer.
As the COP26 summit convenes in Glasgow, BBC ALBA promises a diverse selection of climate programmes which examine our relationship with the environment.
With the impacts of climate change being felt across the world, from floods in Germany, wildfires in Australia and more locally with ongoing coastal erosion in Uist, the team behind BAFTA-winning current affairs programme Eòrpa return with an hour long extended special edition, Eòrpa: An Deasbad | The Debate, speaking to ordinary people across the world to find out what issues are on their mind regarding the environment, and how progress can begin to be made.
Journalist Anna MacLeod chairs a panel of experts in Eòrpa: An Deasbad | The Debate, to discuss the difficult decisions facing world leaders in an attempt to protect our planet. Amongst them are; Climate expert Professor June Graham, climate activist Babs MacGregor, renewable energy experts Eilidh MacInnes and Angus Mackay and economic guru Kenneth Matheson.
Iona MacRitchie, producer of Eòrpa: An Deasbad said: “With COP26 right on our doorstep in Glasgow, we thought it was vital to bring these huge climate related issues to audience’s attention, with considerable challenges ahead of us in dealing with the situation. The Eòrpa team are very happy to have brought these experts together to discuss subjects that are so relevant to Gaelic speakers in every corner of Scotland, and further afield.”
Climate themed programming continues with BBC ALBA’s Lewis based crofter-in-residence Donald MacSween (An Lot, The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan) asking what he can do in practical terms to make a difference to the environment in Mac ’S Uaine | MacSween goes Green, as he visits various green initiatives and considers what addressing climate change would mean for him personally, financially and culturally.
No matter the outcome of COP26, there’s no denying that it’s the youngest in the population that will feel its impact the most. Uaine | Green, a special new series for CBBC ALBA explores these issues, with presenter Calum MacDonald visiting various locations throughout Scotland – from a hybrid powered ferry on the Isle of Skye to Whitelee wind farm near Glasgow and Foyers hydro station by Loch Ness – to see how they are making a positive impact on climate change.
As politicians get to grips with agreeing targets and policies to address the climate situation, Can We Cool the Planet? asks what science can offer by way of practical solutions. Acquired from American broadcaster PBS, this documentary looks internationally to see how the world’s scientists are working together to fight climate change.
• Eòrpa: An Deasbad | The Debate will be broadcast on 28 October at 9pm
• Uaine | Green (CBBC ALBA) will be broadcast from 12 October at 6.50pm
• Mac ’S Uaine | MacSween goes Green will be broadcast on 2 November at 9pm
• An Gabh An Saoghal Fhuarachadh? | Can we cool the planet? Will be broadcast on 4 November at 10.30pm
All programmes will be available for 30 days after broadcast on the BBC iPlayer.
The approach to learning Gaelic is set to be transformed when a new comprehensive language learning course, SpeakGaelic, launches this Friday, October 15.
This multiplatform learning project is being hailed as a game-changer for Gaelic learning, focusing not only on beginners wishing to learn Gaelic but also those who would like to refresh their skills.
On Friday, October 15, all of the SpeakGaelic content for beginners at level A1 will become available on the SpeakGaelic website, with programmes available simultaneously on BBC iPlayer, BBC Sounds, YouTube and other major audio streaming services.
Programmes will also have linear transmissions on both BBC ALBA and BBC Radio nan Gàidheal with complementary learning materials on SpeakGaelic’s social media pages.
Face-to-face learning will also be available with local Gaelic classes and tutors adopting SpeakGaelic, catering to those seeking a more structured learning environment with additional media content providing an even more immersive experience.
This approach will mean that new and existing Gaelic learners will experience a truly flexible and adaptable personal experience, allowing individuals to learn Gaelic in whatever way suits them best.
SpeakGaelic programmes will be fronted by two Sabhal Mòr Ostaig graduates: BBC weather presenter, musician and programme contributor Joy Dunlop, and outdoors enthusiast and social media star Calum Maclean.
In the studio, Joy will provide helpful language learning information, with viewers able to join other Gaelic learners on their journeys.
Joy Dunlop, from the village of Connel in Argyll, said: “Learning Gaelic has had a huge impact on my life. It is central to my career, my friendships and most of the passions in my life.
“SpeakGaelic will give many thousands of people access to learning Gaelic – as well as helping those who need a bit more confidence. I am hoping people will embrace the opportunity because you never know where Gaelic may take you!”
Calum Maclean will present SpeakGaelic’s out-and-about features while also fronting additional social media content.
Calum is known to social media regulars for his outdoors content (including his unforgettable ‘midge challenge’), and in BBC ALBA’s Dhan Uisge, he showcases his passion for wild swimming in the seas, lochs and rivers around Scotland.
BBC Radio nan Gàidheal presenter John Urquhart will provide podcast and radio content.
Coinneach Macleod (47) from Glasgow, better known as the ‘Hebridean Baker’ for his videos that share Scottish inspired recipes and stories of island life, has signed up to SpeakGaelic. He was born and brought up in a Gaelic speaking household on the Isle of Lewis.
He said: “When I go home to the island, my family speak to me in Gaelic. I need a bit of confidence to reply to them in Gaelic, so that’s why I’m doing SpeakGaelic.”
Caroline Quinn (31), originally from Trinidad and Tobago but now living in Glasgow, has also signed up to SpeakGaelic because she aspires to speak Gaelic fluently.
Caroline said: “I’m probably the only person from Trinidad and Tobago that has Gaelic! Keeping the Gaelic language alive is important because it helps to maintain the culture and traditions as well.”
Clare Coghill (28), a chef from the Isle of Skye, has also enrolled on the SpeakGaelic course. She hopes to open a Hebridean inspired café in Skye next year, with a strong emphasis on encouraging customers to speak Gaelic together.
She said: “I’d like to combine my love for Gaelic and cooking in my recipes and through social media.”
SpeakGaelic’s music is provided by one of the most lauded acts in the contemporary Scottish music scene, electronic-Celtic fusion band Niteworks from the Isle of Skye.
SpeakGaelic, a partnership between MG ALBA, Sabhal Mòr Ostaig and the BBC, with funding from Bòrd na Gàidhlig and the Scottish Government, offers a comprehensive media approach reflecting the modern digital learning environment.
Education Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville, said: “I am delighted that the Scottish Government has a key role in supporting the launch of SpeakGaelic. This is an initiative which will transform Gaelic learning by creating new opportunities to learn the language. I am confident that SpeakGaelic will attract new people to the language and also increase Gaelic use in communities.
“The Scottish Government would like to commend all those who have been working together as part of this innovative media partnership.”
Iseabail Mactaggart, SpeakGaelic Project Director and Director of Multiplatform Content at MG ALBA, said: “SpeakGaelic is the biggest project ever aimed at helping adults take up – and improve – their Gaelic and will be a game-changer to the current Gaelic learning environment.
“It’s hugely important that we make it as easy as possible to learn Gaelic, so offering this multiplatform approach allows individuals, classes and institutions to choose their preferred route, with complementary content available whenever they need it.”
Shona MacLennan, Chief Executive of Bòrd na Gàidhlig, said: “Bòrd na Gàidhlig is delighted to support this fantastic new resource which will encourage many more people to become part of our Gaelic-speaking community, whether they already have some knowledge or are entirely new to the language.
“SpeakGaelic will contribute significantly to the aim of the National Gaelic Language Plan that Gaelic is used more often, by more people and a wider range of situations.”
SpeakGaelic will initially launch with level A1, aimed at those new to the language, followed by A2 in early 2022.
The project will also expand to attract lapsed or less confident Gaelic speakers, defined on the learning scale as B1 and B2, later in 2022 and 2023.
The investment in monetary and in-kind contribution required to deliver the partnership’s ambition for the project, including the increased scale required for the more advanced levels, is £4m over four years.
Around 75% of that has been sourced or is in the process of being committed from each of the Scottish Government, Bòrd na Gàidhlig, MG ALBA, the BBC and Sabhal Mòr Ostaig. The partnership is confident that it will succeed in securing the balance required to deliver the project.
Sign up for more information today at www.speakgaelic.scot or follow the SpeakGaelic social media pages – Instagram, Twitter, Facebook & TikTok.
MG ALBA has today welcomed an important economic and social impact study which has demonstrated the important role of Gaelic media, not just as the deliverer of quality content to audiences, but as an economic driver with the potential to offer real growth in our communities.
The study, carried out by Ekos and supported by HIE, outlines the financial returns of MG ALBA and its supply sector, who serve the BBC ALBA platforms as well as the key brands FilmG, LearnGaelic, & SpeakGaelic. The current economic impact data is very clear, with the sector responsible for 340 jobs, £10.4 million of salaries with a GVA of £17.2 million. This all leads to a return on investment of £1.34 for every £1 spent.
The report also demonstrates the potential impact of a significant investment package, on a similar basis had the original investment in Gaelic media been linked to inflation. This highlights the prospect of a rise in jobs and economic growth opportunities which could be harnessed by the fast-paced media sector.
Welcoming the study MG ALBA Chief Executive Donald Campbell said: “This report outlines the important role Gaelic media has in delivering economic growth, especially jobs, to our communities. If we are to address the issues which are facing Gaelic and the communities we serve, then we must look to investing to deliver the opportunities which can be transformational.
Gaelic media is a part of the sustainable future of our communities, a key tenet in areas such as education, the creative industries, talent development and community engagement. We will shortly publish our vision for the future of Gaelic media, which will address Gaelic media’s potential role as a catalyst for economic growth and community engagement in Gaelic through media.”
The study received support from Highlands and Islands Enterprise. Joanna Peteranna, Interim Area Manager at HIE’s Innse Gall area team, said: “MG ALBA helps to support local creative businesses through the programmes it commissions while creating and supporting many jobs in the islands. It provides opportunities to enjoy Gaelic media content, benefiting Gaelic speakers and learners in all parts of Scotland and across the world.
We are pleased to support this study, which provides a high-level overview of how MG ALBA supports economic and community development in the region and beyond.”
A Gaelic speaking singer with Scottish and Nigerian roots explores her relationship with Gaelic culture and history in a new documentary on BBC ALBA.
Cass Ezeji, 27, gives a personal insight into her life in Trusadh: Afro-Gàidheil – Afro-Gaels as she tries to find her place in a culture where she has rarely seen herself represented.
She meets other Gaelic speakers of African and Caribbean descent to discuss how they connect to the language and culture while also talking to experts to uncover the Gael’s role in the slave trade.
Cass attended Scotland’s first Gaelic primary school in Glasgow where she, unfortunately, first experienced racism. As a young mixed-race woman, she felt unsure of her place within the Gaelic community and, although she speaks the language fluently, she’s often questioned that part of her identity.
Cass said: “We were totally immersed in Gaelic at school and I don’t think I knew that was going to be the case so I felt a little lost.
“The impression I had when I left school was that I didn’t feel part of the Gaelic world. I didn’t see myself represented in the culture so there was something of a disconnect.”
Cass’ parents are both from Glasgow. Her paternal grandfather was from Nigeria and lived in the west end of Glasgow with her grandmother who was from Newcastle. Cass said: “There weren’t many Black people living in Scotland at that time. They were one of the few Black families in the city.
Cass, who sings in a band called LAPS with her best friend Alicia Matthews, said: “Growing up, I had no experience at all of Nigeria. I was very fortunate because my grandfather on my mother’s side told me a lot about it.
“We had a large globe and he would show me where Nigeria was. There were two ethnicities in Nigeria he knew about – Igbo and Yoruba; My family are Igbo.”
Cass visited Nigeria for the first time two years ago and, although it was a culture shock, it was a very special trip and she felt a strong connection with the place and the people.
In speaking with fellow Gaelic speakers of Afro-Caribbean heritage, Cass examines what it means to be part of the Gaelic community and discovers she is not alone in feeling uncomfortable with the Gaelic word for ‘Black’: dubh. She considers alternative ways to self-identify and tries to reconnect to the language through her passion for music as she sings in Gaelic for the first time.
Cass meets with historical expert Dr David Alston and Glasgow’s first Afro-Caribbean Councillor Graham Campbell to look at the evidence of slavery that can still be found in Glasgow and the Highlands today. She discovers that the first Gaelic dictionary was funded with donations from slave plantations and learns the story of mixed-race girl, Eliza Junor, who came to Cromarty from Demerara in the 1800s with her Highland father at a time when around 10% of the pupils at Inverness Royal Academy were listed as having come from the Caribbean.
She uncovers the historical ties between the Gaels and the slave trade and how Highland families greatly profited from this enterprise, and addresses some difficult questions about racism and slavery as we continue to live with the legacy to this day.
Cass said: “When we consider Scotland and slavery, we rarely hear about the connection with the Gaels.
“It’s vital that we speak about this in our community because we’ve always seen ourselves as the heroes and the victims but not the perpetrators. It’s a painful history but we were part of it. We need to listen and not disbelieve it.”
Trusadh – Afro-Gàidheil -Afro-Gaels airs on BBC ALBA on Monday, October 4 at 9pm and will be available on the BBC iPlayer for 30 days.
BBC ALBA’s Peat & Diesel concert, From the Barrow to the Barrowlands, picked up the award for Best Live Music Programme at this year’s Celtic Media Festival.
Produced by Stornoway-based production company MacTV, the programme was a huge success for BBC ALBA when it first broadcast in April 2020 as part of an evening of Peat & Diesel.
During the livestreamed Celtic Media Festival awards ceremony, hosted by Still Game’s Sanjeev Kohli, juror Marie MacNeill commended the “incredible crew at MacTV” for capturing “a force totally powered by local fuel”.
Seumas Mactaggart, Head of Development & Co-productions / Commissions at MacTV, said – “We are so happy that MacTV have won this prestigious award! The unique way that Peat & Diesel celebrate Gaelic and island culture with humour and infectious tunes has such appeal, and we were delighted to be able to capture their story through the documentary and that incredible gig at the Barrowlands!
“I’m so proud of the MacTV team and also the wider media sector in the islands, many of whom were involved, and of course the Peat & Diesel boys themselves. It was without doubt ‘a force powered by local fuel!’ – but hey, ‘that’s the way we do it in the Western Isles!”
The complementary documentary That’s the Way We Do It”, which was also nominated in a separate category, has already previously received the prize for International Documentary Feature at the long-running Williamsburg International Film & Music Festival in Brooklyn, New York.
The programmes followed the Stornoway band as they gained momentum and fame ahead of the launch of their second album and their landmark gig at the legendary Glasgow venue, the Barrowland Ballroom.
Peat & Diesel, comprising of fisherman Calum ‘Boydie’ Macleod, electrician Innes Scott and delivery driver Uilleam ‘Uilly’ Macleod, have taken the Scottish music scene by storm, capturing the country’s imagination through their raucous music and unique tales of island life.
BBC Radio nan Gàidheal also saw success at the Celtic Media Festival with Spòrs na Seachdain picking up the award for Best Radio Sports programme for a record 4th time, becoming the most successful programme ever in the 42-year history of the Celtic Media Festival.
Hosted by broadcaster John Morrison, the Saturday morning sports magazine programme previously won in 2016, 2017 and 2019 and this year’s winning programme was celebrated for its efforts in highlighting the progress being made in women’s sport.
John said: “I have to pay tribute to the producer Mairi MacRitchie who managed to keep the show on the road during weeks of lockdown when there was no live sport to discuss. I was presenting from a small room in the house and all our interviewees joined the show live from their own homes. Huge thanks to them for making powerful contributions about women’s sport that made this an award-winning show.
“For me, Spòrs works because it connects successfully with the audience who are as passionate about sport at every level as we are. The programme moves easily from discussing global superstars like Messi, to emerging stars like Emma Raducanu, to local heroes talking about sport in their own community. Four times in the last six years – it has proven to be a winning formula.”
Spòrs na Seachdain Producer, Mairi MacRitchie, said: ““Many thanks to the Celtic Media Festival and to the judges for recognising Spòrs na Seachdain as the best Radio Sport programme for the fourth time. Myself, John and the team are just delighted and humbled to win! There was a superb group of nominees in the Radio Sport category this year, with so many wonderful stories to tell and aspects to focus on from the world of sport. Thanks to all those who took part in our programme during the first lockdown and sharing their views so openly and for trusting in the technology to get everyone heard too!””
BBC ALBA Head of Service, Margaret Mary Murray, said: “It’s incredibly encouraging and very inspiring to see that Gaelic media continues to be recognised amongst the finest in the Celtic nations. Our producers, production companies, crews and talent work diligently across all media to create brilliant programmes for audiences every day and every week of the year and prestigious industry awards like these are hugely appreciated.”
BBC ALBA unveils a packed autumn schedule of new programmes today (10 September) with stories which are set to thrill and inspire, take us on exciting outdoor adventures and offer the very best live music in Scotland.
SpeakGaelic is a new and engaging multi-media learning programme, designed for absolute beginners and lapsed learners and is set to inspire and support a new generation of Gaelic speakers.
SpeakGaelic will be led by popular TV and radio personality Joy Dunlop and wild swimming social media star Calum Maclean.
Scotland’s stunning landscape is the backdrop to a number of new series this Autumn: After travelling the NC500 and Wild Atlantic Way, Anne Lundon explores An Cuan Sgìth/The Minch, the stretch of water linking the North West Highlands and the Hebrides where she meets those who live and work in these coastal communities.
People’s stories are at the heart of BBC ALBA’s schedule as 28-year-old rally driver Mairi Ross from the Isle of Lewis attests. Mairi’s goal is to obtain every form of vehicle license she can from, bike and bus to HGV, all whilst becoming a mum for the first time. Watch how Mairi’s story unfolds in Mach às mo Rathad/Born to Drive. And in Afro-Gàidheil / Afro-Gaels, Gaelic speaker Cass Ezeji examines what the term ‘Gael’ means to other Gaelic speakers who share her African and Caribbean heritage.
Climber Coinneach Rankin shares his passion for Scotland’s wild spaces and gives viewers a unique glimpse of stunning scenery and adventure when they are transported to the rock face in Dàna | Scotland’s Wild Side.
Ratharsair explores the island of Raasay, which as although the same size as Manhattan, has less than 200 residents and faces both challenges and opportunities for the future and Ramsay MacMahon returns with his guide to Scotland’s great weekend escapes in Mach à Seo!
Seumas MacLetchie takes viewers on a charming and nostalgic tour through the islands’ unique freshwater angling world and finds out about the heritage of his own profession in Trusadh: The Ghillie’s Story, while Evelyn Coull explores the deserted villages of Lewis and Harris’ rural landscape in Trusadh: Beatha air an Oir / Lost Villages re-discovering the lives lived and considering the lessons they offer to a new generation.
Gàrraidhean Mòra na h-Alba/Scotland’s Gardens takes viewers on a leisurely tour of four inspirational public gardens in Scotland including Botanic Gardens and a formal Japanese Garden with a fascinating history. Edinburgh and environs provide the dramatic setting for Sàr-Sgeòil: The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, as Cathy MacDonald discovers the fact behind the fiction of Muriel Spark’s seminal novel.
Golf: Mun Cuairt Alba explores hidden gems and well-known golf courses in Scotland and hears from golfers of all ages with tips from professionals along the way. And while the presenters of Seòid a’ Chidsin/ The Kitchen Coves, Roddy and Uisdean, can’t visit other countries just now they can still enjoy the cuisine, taking viewers to all points of the compass, from their very own kitchen.
The environmental challenges we face are explored and discussed topic in BBC ALBA’s flagship current affairs programme Eòrpa, as the United Nations COP26 climate change conference convenes in Glasgow and CBBC ALBA launch a new programme Uaine / Green offering young people’s perspectives while crofter Donald ‘Sweeny’ MacSween from BBC ALBA’s An Lot will be asking what he can do to help the environment in Mac ‘s Uaine / MacSween Goes Green.
Music fans are in for a feast of live performances from the TRNSMT music festival in Glasgow, the Royal National Mod in Inverness and the semi-finals of this year’s BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician of the Year. Julie Fowlis hosts a second series of the lockdown inspired Julie Fowlis | Ceòl aig Baile with an array of traditional music stars in four locations – Inverness, Skye, Moidart and Glasgow. As an additional treat, Julie also re-visits classic performances from the seminal series which brought together stars of country, folk and traditional music, The Transatlantic Sessions.
BBC ALBA’s children’s schedule will have new series such as Alba Eagalach which follows a team of plucky presenters as they travel to places infamous for their perplexing pasts, horrifying hauntings and odd occurrences alongside some fabulous animations including Pompon Little Bear and The Adventures of Tintin.
BBC ALBA continues to position itself as the home of women’s sport with coverage of Scotland’s FIFA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers, the Scottish Women’s Premier League, Scotland’s Women’s Rugby World Cup qualifying campaign plus the weekly digital digest of all the latest news in Women’s Sport 360, available on BBC iPlayer and BBC ALBA’s YouTube.
And for the first time ever on BBC ALBA, there will also be live coverage of the Camanachd Cup Final on Saturday 18th September.
The full schedule of programmes is available in the BBC ALBA digital autumn schedule.
BBC ALBA today announce unrivalled coverage of Scottish women’s football with a record 20 live Scottish Women’s Premier League matches alongside exclusive live coverage of Scotland’s Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.
Also announced today is BBC ALBA’s coverage of Glasgow City’s crucial Champions League Round 2 matches, the firs on Wednesday evening.
Scotland’s top league sides will battle it out on BBC ALBA this Autumn, opening with newly promoted Aberdeen hosting Celtic on the first day of the new season.
Scottish Women’s Football CEO, Aileen Campbell, said: “We are delighted to announce a further enhanced broadcast partnership with BBC ALBA going into the new season. They are genuine partners to the women’s game, always striving to enhance the product they provide and to show the women’s game the respect it deserves.
“Having watched the drama of the 2020/21 SWPL 1 drama unfold, I know personally how important visibility is. It’s vital that SWF ensures that women’s football remains readily available and that we look to engage with football fans across the country.
“We also look forward to seeing fans back in person as I think everyone will agree, the atmosphere they provided on the final day of last season certainly added to the drama and excitement.”
Scotland’s Women’s National Team will also take centre place on BBC ALBA in their upcoming qualifying campaign for the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
BBC ALBA followed the SWNT through the qualifying and finals of the 2019 Women’s World Cup, and they start this campaign away to Hungary on the 17th of September.
Fiona McIntyre, Scottish FA Head of Girls’ and Women’s Football said: “BBC ALBA’s support is vital to the promotion and development of the game in Scotland.
“Interest in the women’s game has grown exponentially in recent times and that has been greatly harnessed by the continued support of BBC ALBA in broadcasting the Scotland Women’s National Team matches.
“To have the forthcoming campaign broadcast live for our supporters is a tremendous boost and we look forward to the team not only playing in front of impressive crowds at Hampden Park but also large audiences on TV for home and away matches.”
BBC ALBA is also continuing its coverage of the UEFA Womens Champions League with Glasgow City’s second round game against Swiss side Servette, as they battle to get into the Women’s Champions League for the 11th year running.
Laura Montgomery, Chief Executive of Glasgow City FC, said “Wednesday’s Champions League game against Servette is huge for Glasgow City and being live on BBC ALBA and iPlayer allows our fans across the country to tune in and keep up with the team’s UWCL campaign.”
These latest announcements contribute to BBC ALBA’s unrivalled Women’s Sport coverage, which is showcased each week by digital magazine show Women’s Sport 360, broadcasting on the BBC iPlayer and the BBC ALBA YouTube each Thursday at 8pm.
Women’s Sport 360 brings the latest developments and news in the world of women’s sport to BBC ALBA’s digital platforms, whilst providing a platform for interviews and features from some of the biggest names in women’s sport.
Iseabail Mactaggart, Director of Multiplatform Content at MG ALBA, which operates BBC ALBA in partnership with the BBC, said: “We’re delighted BBC ALBA will be bringing coverage of the world cup qualifiers as well as unprecedented coverage of the domestic league to our audiences, , and the latest Women’s Champions League action. This is another important step in increasing appreciation and visibility of women’s sport and, for BBC ALBA, ensuring the channel continues to be a door to Gaelic to non-Gaelic speaking audiences.’
Currently confirmed fixtures are as follows;
SWPL
• Aberdeen v Celtic | Sunday 5th September | 16:00| Balmoral Stadium
• Celtic v Glasgow City | Sunday 12th September | 16:00 | The Penny Cars Stadium
• Hibernian v Rangers | Sunday 3th October | 16:00 | Tony Macaroni Arena
• Glasgow City v Rangers | Sunday 17th October | 16:00 | Petershill Park
• Celtic v Rangers | Sunday 7th November | 16:00 | The Penny Cars Stadium
UEFA Women’s Champions League Round 2:
• Servette v Glasgow City | Wednesday 1st September | 1805
2023 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers
• Hungary v Scotland | Friday 17 September
• Scotland v Faroe Islands | Tuesday 21 September
• Scotland v Hungary | Friday 22 October
• Scotland v Ukraine | Friday 26 November
• Spain v Scotland | Tuesday 30 November
You can watch Women’s Sport 360 here on BBC ALBA iPlayer & BBC ALBA YouTube
