Festival returns to celebrate the best of Doric

Across the Grain Festival is set to return for its fourth year celebrating Doric and traditional music of the north east through a contemporary mix of podcasts, performances, films and events for all ages, offered predominantly online.

An eclectic, compact programme is on offer for participants to dive into the cultural life, heritage, language, music and stories of the north-east.

On Saturday, October 2 the Festival Programme features a free Scots Song Workshop with Evie Waddell at 2pm

This this exciting 90-minute online workshop is suitable for young folk aged six-26 and all abilities are welcome.

At 4pm Tone, Sound, Shape sees internationally celebrated north- east musician Paul Anderson explore the relationship between the materials, construction and tone of violins, in this film short premiere commissioned as part of the Banchory Cultural Centre refurbishment.

At 7pm a concert showcases performances from some of the amazingly talented SC&T Youth participants.

Young folk from Aberdeen to Alford, Edinburgh to Echt perform in a concert not to be missed!

Also on is Fits a’ Dee? a three-part podcast presented by young people aged 10-15 who embark on a journey into the past, present and future of Doric.

On Sunday, October 3 in partnership with the Elphinstone Institute, join Dr. Tom McKean to explore the history of American Carpenter’s extensive collection of Scottish traditional music, and learn how to use this fascinating, and ever-evolving, resource.

Talking Textiles the same day launches a brand-new community banner-making programme celebrating the Book of Deer, an 11th century illuminated manuscript discovered near Mintlaw.

An no festival would be complte without Doric Call My Bluff where teams will battle for first place to become Doric Call My Bluff champions 2021.

Full event details are online at https://www.livelifeaberdeenshire.org.uk/live-life-at-home/across-the-grain/.

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