In September, 2024, Nicky Thornton, Marketing Manager, was accepted as part of an English delegation visiting Scotland as part of the Scotland Introducing initiative. Known as The Visit, the aim was to actively promote Scottish folk, roots, and acoustic artists by facilitating performances at key venues in England.

Nicky writes:

“Having Scottish godparents, I was no stranger to the landscapes of this beautiful part of the world, but to be immersed deep into the culture through folk stories and incredibly talented musicians, composers and singers, was a revelation.

Twenty-one acts, two locations, lovely folk-loving folk and a lot of tattie scones was actual heaven for those four days. We lived and breathed songs in Gaelic, Scots and English, learned history from a Stirling Castle guide, and were never far from a good meal or wee dram. 

How on earth did we fit in 21 acts, you may ask? Well, the acts were scheduled across four afternoon and evenings, at The Tolbooth in Stirling (Monday and Tuesday) and then the Eastgate Theatre in Peebles (Wednesday and Thursday). At each venue, the chosen acts performed a half-hour gig each, leaving time to talk to them afterwards, take CDs and details, and form a view of whether they’d be a good match for a Ropetackle audience.

Cherishing culture

What impressed me most was how young and accomplished the players were. I discovered that learning music is a staple part of their education; that folklore and creativity are cherished and nurtured, and that the landscape and islands yield a particular kind of magic.

The experience was so well organised . We saw such remarkable talent, from duos, trios, solo artists and groups, singing in Gaelic, Scots and English and playing with an assortment of instruments. Each of the 21 acts brought something different to the table and we learned so much about this beautiful country and its traditions and culture through the music.

Fast forward two years and there are a series of tours under way thoughout England. We are very privileged to be hosting Heisk and Chloe Matharu here on Friday 26th June at 8pm. 

“Ropetackle is proud to be part of the programme and I’d urge everyone to come and enjoy these two very different acts and support emerging talent.”

Artists: Amy Laurenson, Assynt, Birdvox, Chloe Matharu, Constant Follower, Dlù, Eabhal, Firelight Trio, Gnoss, Hannah Rarity, HEISK, Heron Valley, Iona Fyfe, Iona Lane, Jemima & the Fuse, Joy Dunlop, Kim Carnie, Malin Lewis, Project SMOK, Ryan Young, Sarah Markey.  

The Scotland Introducing series of tours across England in 2026 are a direct result of the success of The Visit 2024 event. Showcase Scotland Expo is supported by Creative Arts Scotland, PRS Foundation and the Scottish government.