The call is out for Kintyre’s musicians and dancers
THE CALL is out for Kintyre’s talented musicians and dancers to head up the road and join the 35th anniversary of Oban’s Highlands and Islands Music and Dance Festival.
The organisers hope to beat recent record numbers of 1,100 entries in the 125 competitions to mark this occasion.
They are looking
for budding Highland dancers, fiddlers, pipers, pianists, accordion and clarsach players, and not forgetting those proficient in woodwind and brass to come along and show their talents.
‘Each year we have performers from all over Scotland, from neighbouring towns like Campbeltown to as far afield as Edin-
burgh, Dingwall and Skye, and this year we have our first entry from Germany!’ said Breege Smyth, who chairs the festival committee.
The festival, from May 4-6, brings many venues alive in the town with music, and outdoor performers in the heart of the town.
Organised by volunteers, the committee has been proud to attract more than 3,000 visitors to the town which is a welcome boost to the local economy through hotels, restaurants and travel.
Over the years the economic impact has been acknowledged, and the festival would not be possible without the support of many local businesses.
‘The festival has retained a unique family feel that is the hallmark
of true Highland hospitality, despite the competitive nature of the programme,’ said Breege.
‘Each year I am delighted that our funders and the businesses of Oban share our passion and are generous in support – particularly as we have been going to 35 years.’
This year’s Highlands and Islands Music and Dance Festival is supported by EventScotland, part of VisitScotland’s Events Directorate, through its National Events programme.
Please check the website on www. obanfestival.org for the grading required as certain masters events are for prize-winners only.
Entries close Monday March 19.