Our Advanced Fèis Week offers musicians in S1-S6 the opportunity to develop their skills with two of Scotland’s top traditional musicians.
Overview
At our Advanced Fèis, we encourage instrumentalists and singers to develop their skills alongside Scotland’s top traditional musicians. We’re looking for individuals who are confident and capable, ready to expand their repertoire and experience. All musicians are welcome, so whether you’re a skilled fiddler, passionate singer, or anything else, join us for an inspiring musical experience!
What to Expect:
Participants will engage in a series of workshops covering subjects like accompaniment and melody, groupwork, performing for dancing, and more. Check out our Advanced Fèis Timetable from last year to get an idea of what to expect during your week. Throughout the week, you’ll collaborate with your tutors and peers to prepare for our finale concert. Each day, you’ll also have the opportunity to engage Gaelic language activities, including our annual Fèis song – a highlight of our finale concert.
All our tutors are experienced, professional musicians, adept at working with young people. Supported by a team of supervisors and volunteers, we ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants, adhering to Child Protection and Health & Safety Guidelines. Our staff are all members of the Protecting Vulnerable Groups Scheme administered by Disclosure Scotland.
Please note: Participants in our Advanced Fèis Week must have been studying in high school for at least 1 year. Pupils transitioning to high school from primary 7 are not eligible for these workshops.
Tutors
Calum McIlroy
Calum McIlroy, a rising star in Scotland’s traditional music scene, brings his expertise as a guitarist, mandolin player, and singer to our Advanced Fèis. Recently crowned BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician 2024, Calum’s lyrical plectrum-focussed arrangements of traditional and original tunes have earned him accolades, establishing him as a prominent figure in the folk music landscape. A graduate of the BMus Traditional Music course at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Calum released his debut EP, “This Ill Deeds,” in 2020, garnering attention and earning a nomination for the Citty Finlayson Scots Singer of the Year Award at the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards. With a wealth of performance experience, including appearances alongside renowned musicians like Mike Vass, Anna Massie, and Ross Ainslie & Ali Hutton, Calum brings a unique blend of skill and passion to his teaching, inspiring students to explore and master Scotland’s rich musical heritage.
Chloë Bryce
Chloë Bryce, a captivating fiddler and vocalist, is swiftly gaining recognition in Scotland’s folk circles. Rooted in her Gaelic upbringing in the North Highlands, Chloë infuses her performances with heartfelt interpretations of traditional Scottish melodies alongside her own evocative compositions. With appearances at esteemed festivals such as Celtic Connections and Glasgow Girls, Chloë’s musical journey is marked by a commitment to preserving and innovating within Scotland’s rich folk heritage. As a graduate of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, she has collaborated with acclaimed musicians like Luc McNally and Justyna Krzyzanowska, cementing her status as an emerging talent in the traditional music scene.
Gallery
You can view our full gallery of images from last year on Facebook here: Fèis Week 2023
Pricing
Price for 4 days tuition + Fèis t-shirt = £110
- 1st additional sibling = £100
- 2nd additional sibling = £90
- 3rd additional sibling = £80
We work hard to keep access open to all young people and are fortunate to secure public funding to support our events. Places at our events are subsidised with the true cost of each place being much higher.
Payment is required at the time of booking. Payment can be made in full or using our deposit scheme. If you choose to pay with our deposit scheme, 25% will be taken at the time of booking with the remaining balance due 1 month before the event. Deposit payments are non-refundable. Additionally, all payments become non-refundable after the close of applications on Sunday 5th May 2024. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in adhering to these policies.
A limited number of funded places are available for those who are in receipt of a clothing grant (proof of confirmation required). Tick the relevant box on our application form to make an application to this scheme.
Apply
Earlybird Registration now open for 2025. Reserve your spot by August 31st 2024.
✉️ Join our mailing list to be notified of future updates and opportunities: Mailing List