Festival 2018 highlights

The Great Big Opening Party

George Square, 1 August

Featuring live music from Royal Conservatoire alumnus the Ayoub Sisters, Scottish Album of the Year Award-winning duo Sacred Paws, chamber pop maestro C Duncan, Edinburgh songstress Nina Nesbitt, below, and the folk force of Elephant Sessions.

Sonica Presents Portal

Clyde Tunnel, 2 August

Celebrating the 55th birthday of the Clyde Tunnel by transforming its 762-metre length into an immersive multi-media spectacle with robotic sculptures and electronic soundscapes to guide you.

Mix the City Live

George Square, 3 August

Glasgow-based musicians Kathryn Joseph, below, and RM Hubbert are joined by Berlin electronica artist Barbara Morgenstern on a bill curated by Chemikal Underground’s Alun Woodward.

Glasgow Meets Berlin

George Square, 7 August

A live-linked concert between the two host cities, with musicians from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland collaborating with the Universitat der Kunste and Brandenberger Symphoniker.

Orbital

George Square, 10 August

Rare sighting of electronica legends the Hartnoll Brothers, presenting a set of 90s rave anthems and new material.

Celtic Connections

George Square, 12 August

A folk and world music feast with Malian singer/guitarist Fatoumata Diawara, above, Galician trio Tanxugeira, Shooglenifty, Ross Ainslie & Jarlath Henderson and Siobhan Miller. ■