The brightest star in the UK folk firmament, Eliza is joined by Ben Ivitsky, Jon Boden and John Spiers
Some people might consider Wester Ross a quiet cultural backwater but nothing could be further from the truth. Wester Ross has long had a vivid and varied cultural life. Its children have travelled far and wide, carrying with them memories of one of the most entrancing landscapes on earth. From the enforced migration of the Clearances and the tragic contribution to two world wars by Ross-shire men, to today’s young people leaving to make their way in the world, life in Wester Ross has always combined a passion for home with a curiosity about the world outside. And those returning can always be sure of a warm welcome! They bring with them stories, songs and experiences that enrich the lives of those who remain. Indeed, the foreign accents of visitors to Wester Ross often disguise a long memory of association with the area, sometimes separated by generations. To celebrate the circular nature of migration and the richness that results from combining indigenous and other cultures we have this year adopted the theme of “music of mix and migration”. We hope you enjoy our programme!
Wester Ross is a place where a stunning landscape combines with a laid-back attitude to life to provide one of the most enticing backdrops to an arts event imaginable. Unlike other events, the Wester Ross Festival is spread out over a large area. We hope you will take the opportunity to sample the unique charms of some of our communities.
The trail begins in the south in the community of Applecross, a traditional place of sanctuary. The drive over the Beallach na Ba (Pass of the Cattle) and down into the village moves even the most weary heart with its breathtaking vista.
Iconic American singer-songwriter is joined by old-time trio from Dublin
A chance to enjoy one of America’s most engaging singer-songwriters. Michael Hurley, a veteran of some 11 albums, has inspired such icons as Michelle Shocked and Loudon Wainwright III. He is joined by the Rough Deal String Band from Dublin, exponents of traditional Old Time and Appalachian music. Rounding the night off in raucous style, Bomskare, a ska band from Edinburgh, will have the place jumping!
McFall’s Chamber Orchestra, Chilean singer Valentina Martinez and guitarist Gallo Ceron, liven up Sunday with vibrant Chilean and Tango music.
Kinlochewe is positioned at the head of famous Loch Maree. With the sweeping grandeur of the Torridons to the south and the Fisherfield Forest to the north, the village is a magnet for mountaineers and other nature lovers.
Strip the Willow til you drop on Friday night in the village hall with the exuberant Fergie Macdonald Ceilidh Band. Then revive yourself with one of Scotland’s most exhilarating salsa acts, Rumba Caliente.
Along the road to the coast, the tranquil village of Gairloch boasts one of Ross-shire’s finest beaches as well as two camp sites, a youth hostel and many hotels and guest houses.
Enjoy free traditional music sessions in the afternoons over a pint or two of real ale or a dram. On Friday and Saturday evening an open mic session showcases the best of local and visiting talent.
Bring an instrument, a voice or simply a pair of ears!
The fine village hall at Poolewe, just up the road from Gairloch, plays host to two of the Festival’s most exciting concerts.
Hereditary Gambian griot (tribal bard) and kora virtuoso is joined by Scottish clàrsair, Phamie Gow
In the afternoon catch one of the UK folk scene’s brightest stars, Eliza Carthy, performing with Ben Ivitsky, Jon Boden and John Spiers. In the evening the mood shifts with a recital from Gambian griot (tribal bard) and kora virtuoso, Bajaly Suso, joined by Scottish clarsach player, Phamie Gow. Then we’ll clear back the seats and dance the night away with La Boum!, performers of “music for the global village dancehall”.
For lovers of blues music, Friday night at the Aultbea Hotel is a must with performances from three of the finest blues acts on the touring circuit today. Ken Hamm has been called the guru of Canadian blues; his fine fingerpicking guitar style recalls the days of Robert Johnson and Son House. Local band, Mojo Walk can be counted on for a characteristically rocking set to prepare the stage for the prodigious talents of Andy Gunn, the Highlands’ own Jimi Hendrix.
The village of Ullapool boasts a thriving cultural life equal to that of many small cities!
A carnival parade featuring The Ross Youth Supreme Team (TRYST) will grace the streets of Ullapool on Saturday with chants and original pipe music specially commissioned for the Festival.
The Ceilidh Place, long renowned for its cutting edge arts policy, plays host to the Festival Cabaret on Friday and Saturday, allowing festival goers to sample the delights of Heather Macleod Trio, Andi Neate, a Poetry Slam hosted by Anita Govan and much more until the wee small hours.
Also no slouch in the live music stakes, the Seaforth presents local rock legends, Snodgrass, with support from fast-rising acoustic popsters, Aberfeldy.
On Saturday evening Rumba Caliente with McFall’s Chamber Orchestra, Valentina Martinez and Gallo Ceron kick up a Latin American storm (dancing shoes obligatory; fancy costumes optional!).
Sunday afternoon offers another chance to see the Mercury Music Prize nominated Eliza Carthy Band supported by top Scottish Folk Trio, Fine Friday.
The community of Scoraig played host to several festivals in the late 80s and early 90s, which are now part of contemporary folklore.
For serious festival enthusiasts, Sunday night in Scoraig is well worth the trip across Little Loch Broom. The night at Nigel’s Barn will be headlined by La Boum!, whose lead singer and guitarist, Tom Salter, was for several years a Scoraig resident. Expect additional performances from Michael Hurley and the Rough Deal String Band along with a selection of those other festival acts with enough energy left over! Experienced wild campers only should make their way to Badlurach Jetty, where a boat will carry them across Little Loch Broom to the Festival’s effervescent finale.
