Orchestra checks in for a reel treat

Musicians perform ceilidh favourite for jetsetters

Holidaymakers took up the baton during special classical performances at Glasgow Airport.

The Royal Scottish National Orchestra ( RSNO) encouraged passengers to conduct themselves with flair by leading the players through a ceilidh favourite.

Music fans had the 50-strong group take on Eightsome Reels after it topped a public vote of classical pieces.

RSNO assistant conductor Holly Mathieson says jetsetters had a rare chance to take control some of the world’s best musicians.

She said: “Performing at the airport was an absolutely joyful experience.

“Not many expect to be confronted by a full- size professional orchestra after they check in and to see the look on passengers’ faces was very gratifying.

“It was also a pleasure to welcome our novice maestri to the podium to give their interpretation of a traditional Scottish classic.

“We had some fantastic, and very brave people taking part, who were in the running for some very generous prizes from Glasgow Airport.

“I also loved hearing everyone’s travel stories and knowing we were helping to create a once-in- a-lifetime start to some people’s journeys.

“Huge congratulations to all who gave it a go and thanks to Glasgow Airport for inviting us to close their Best of Scotland campaign.”

The orchestra performed two 40- minute concerts, giving five lucky visitors the chance to play along.

Scotland’s other national ensemble — the national football team — joined the fun as they headed to Lithuania for a crucial World Cup qualifier.

The first-time conductors were marked for their natural ability and precise direction by four members of the woodwind section.

The country dance tune beat out Rossilini’s William Tell Overture, which was used as the theme tune to The Lone Ranger and Montagues and Capulets, better known as the theme from BBC telly smash The Apprentice.

The competitors hailed from different international locations, including a young brother and sister from Toronto, Canada, facing off against each other.

Steven Marshall, head of airline marketing and development at Glasgow Airport, says the performance will be a calendar highlight.

He said: “The Royal Scottish National Orchestra’s annual performance is one of the highlights of the year for both the terminal team and, of course, our passengers.”