Trail West lead the charge of the Hebrideans at this year's Celtic Conenctions, which returns to Glasgow from 14 to 31 January.
The programme for the 34th Celtic Connections has been revealed and Trail West, originally from Tiree and starring Seonaidh Macintyre from South Uist, will play the Barrowland Ballroom on the first Friday night of the festival – January 16.
There are a number of island acts playing at the internationally-acclaimed Celtic Connections festival, which brings together music from more than 20 countries in gigs at venues across the city.
Islanders include Emma Scalpay, who will be joining fellow Hebrideans Face the West on stage at the Òran Mór in the West End.
Lewis-born Josie Duncan, now based in Glasgow will be performing at Cottiers Theatre, also in the West End.
Fan favourite Julie Fowlis will be performing not just once, but twice at the 2027 Celtic Connections celebrations. On Wednesday 20 January, Fowlis will be performing alongside a host of musicians for the much-anticipated folk group Spell Songs, a group brought together by the work of author Robert Macfarlane and award-winning artist Jackie Morris.
After this, Fowlis will be hosting her own performance alongside some special guests on 28 January at City Halls.
Another islander joining the line-up so far is Carloway-born musician Norrie ‘Tago’ Maciver, who last year embarked on his solo career and has since been engaging with fans online and released his new solo album, Roots Beneath.
A new musical entry comes from Fionnlagh Mac A’ Phiocair, a native Gàidhlig speaker from North Uist who is recognised as one of the emerging leading figures in Scottish smallpiping.
One act which is not quite local but has local connections is the band Stornoway, who are returning to Celtic Connections with their indie folk music. They will be performing at the Old Fruitmarket, with support from country-folk singer and songwriter Minna.
For 2027, Celtic Connections is introducing a money saver for young audiences. It is rolling out New Roots – a £1 membership scheme for under 26s – to allow students and young music lovers to get up to 50 per cent off tickets for selected shows.
Celtic Connections Creative Director Donald Shaw, who will mark 21 years at the helm of the festival, said: “January is all about embracing musical exploration, uncovering something new that takes you by surprise, and getting out and about regardless of the dark nights.
“This festival believes in great music, excellent company and the power of connection. That spirit of discovery and optimism runs right through the 2027 programme, with artists people will know and love, new names, unique collaborations and shows that simply won’t happen anywhere else. For 18 days, Celtic Connections will be a meeting place for cultures, ideas and a sprinkling of intangible magic, so come and get curious, we promise you won’t regret it.”
General tickets go on sale at 10am, Thursday 8 October for the first shows confirmed for 2027, with new gigs on sale each Thursday in October. Celtic Rovers – the unofficial supporters membership – will have access to 24-hour pre-sale.
To view the line-up, click here.
Celtic Connections is delivered by charity Glasgow Life which leads culture, events and active living.
