#COVIDceilidh proves a hit across the world
#COVIDceilidh is not just a new hashtag but a new online phenomenon winning new fans to traditional folk music during the coronavirus.
With venues shut, gigs cancelled and bookings up in smoke, traditional musicians are taking to social media to post impromptu gigs using the hashtag #COVIDceilidh.
The idea originated from one of Scotland’s most recognised and accomplished fiddle players and composers, Duncan Chisholm, to connect musicians with new fans using the power of social media.
Duncan has been using his loyal following and influence to spotlight traditional musicians – known and unknown – with live music lovers around the world. He explained: ‘We’re encouraging musicians from around the world to post an acoustic tune or song a day using the #COVIDCeilidh hashtag.’
The aim is to give stuck-athome folks a lift during the lockdown and connect musicians with new fans through a thumping good tune.
Closer to home, Hannah Fisher and Sorren Maclean, on Mull, took up the invitation. The acclaimed pair quickly reached an international audience.
Before the lockdown was imposed, they donned wellies and woollies to play Cathal Hayden’s appropriately-named Splendid Isolation, all framed by the beautiful Kilvickeon beach near Bunessan, Ross of Mull.
Their performance has racked up in excess of 10,000 views and has attracted positive comments from as far afield as France, Bermuda, Florida and Oklahoma.
Hannah said #COVIDceilidh was aiming to bring ‘lots of sunshine’ to people, urging: ‘Follow the hashtag, show your granny, join in!’
But there’s a serious side to the issue, too, as many selfemployed musicians are facing up to no gigs or income for the forseeable future.
Fans new and old, where possible, can help by purchasing any albums for sale to help support the creative community during unprecedented times for live music the world over.
Let us know how you’re beating the lockdown boredom by emailing editor@obantimes. co.uk or giving us a call on 01631 568000.