Scottish Arts Council event promotes Scottish Music

IFACCA/Artshub, 31 January 2005
United Kingdom

Organised by the Scottish Arts Council, British Council and Celtic Connections, Showcase Scotland, held from 20-23 January in Glasgow, is the largest music industry gathering in Scotland. Representatives from as far afield as Australia, Dubai, Canada, Norway and USA came to Scotland to experience the best music the country could offer - representing an opportunity for Scottish artists to get international exposure and access to overseas markets. This year, Showcase Scotland united over 150 UK and international promoters, record labels and agents. Some of the world’s largest folk festivals – like Tonder in Denmark and Colours in Canada – had made the trip to see what Scottish music had to offer their festivals this year. The meeting represents a great opportunity for Scottish groups, with last year’s Showcase resulting in several international tours. Gaelic group, Dochas secured a twenty-concert tour that encompassed Australia, Denmark, Ireland, Vancouver and Italy. Other groups, like Bachue, Capercaillie and Aberfeldy achieved similar success. This year’s event involved 40 artists and bands performing in eight venues across Glasgow. Delegates were able to see performances by artists and bands from various traditions and influences including Karen Matheson, Chris Hout, Dick Gaughan, Anna Massie, Fine Friday and the Delgados. The Scottish Arts Council collaborated on several special events at this year’s Showcase. With Strings Attached featured a collection of eclectic Socttish talent, whilst delegates will had the opportunity to attend the BBC Young Traditional Musician of the Year final. Also at this year’s festival, the Danish Folk Council, recognising the impact that Showcase Scotland can have on artists and musicians, presented a small number of Danish artists alongside the Scottish groups. Nod Knowles, Head of Music at the Scottish Arts Council, says: ‘Showcase Scotland is a key event for the Scottish music industry and its success in promoting Scottish music nationally and internationally has meant it has become a key way of exporting Scotland’s music abroad. Music is a major creative industry in Scotland and having Scottish artists and bands performing internationally not only helps to develop the music industry in Scotland but also helps to increase the profile of Scotland abroad, which in turn can generate huge benefits for Scottish tourism and the economy.’ For more information on Showcase Scotland, CLICK HERE.

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