Bringing the Dutch audience closer to the musical traditions of Scotland is the goal of CEÒLAS Scottish Music Nights. The tour spans several countries such as Finland, Norway, Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands, and now arrives in Groningen. Two of the most renowned Scottish bands, The Langan Band and FARA, are on the program here.

The Langan Band

The trio that will open the evening consists of John Langan (vocals, guitar, and percussion), Alastair Caplin (vocals and violin), and Dave Tunstall (vocals and double bass), collectively known as The Langan Band. With their music, the group aims to break through existing genres, offering a blend of traditional Scottish folk, Eastern European gypsy swing, progressive jazz, and American old-time music. The band’s appeal was confirmed when they won the prestigious Danny Kyle Award at the Celtic Connections Festival.

FARA

The Scottish quartet FARA has more than earned their place at the top of the Scottish folk scene since their performance at the Orkney Folk Festival in 2014. The group offers a mix of enchanting vocals, intricately woven fiddle harmonies, and energetic finales, earning them a nomination for Live Act of the Year at the Scots Trad Music Awards. In 2022, they presented their long-awaited new album Energy Islands as an ode to the revolutionary role of their home base, Orkney, in the field of sustainable energy. The album was well-received, reaching number ten on the UK Folk Charts. The group consists of violinists and vocalists Jeana Leslie, Catriona Price, and Kristan Harvey, along with Highland pianist Rory Matheson.