Why I Love Glasgow's music scene: Finlay MacDonald

Definitely the people. It’s always an absolute pleasure playing a gig or going to see another band in Glasgow. Of course, there are so many iconic venues all with their own special character, but there’s a real honesty and edge to the audiences. You certainly need to be up for anything at a gig in Glasgow!

I was invited to guest with the great folk band RURA at a show in Saint Luke's in September 2021, just as the Covid-19 restrictions were allowing gigs with full audiences again. The atmosphere was amazing, and when I came on to play the tune I wrote, 'Elliott’s', the whole crowd sang in full voice throughout the track.

It was incredible to see and hear so many people sing a pipe tune back, the way people usually do with pop songs. I guess it shows the level of support for the traditional music scene in Glasgow.

It’s a really open scene in Glasgow. The way the music is taught on the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and National Piping Centre courses really does bring cross-genre learning to the fore. There is a real confidence and belief in the tradition, but also a great hunger for experimentation and collaboration. It results in a very respectful but inquisitive scene.

There are also some great studios and a great session scene where people socialise through the music. It really does feel like you are part of something bigger, a real community.

I love the Old Fruitmarket. It's just got something special, I’ve been to so many amazing nights there and been lucky enough to have played there with loads of different bands. Each time the atmosphere has been amazing.

Burgeoning!

Get to a session! There are so many trad music sessions in the city. You’ll get a real sense of the energy and passion for the trad music scene in an informal atmosphere. But make sure you also get to some of the amazing venues the city has to offer.