Scotland to Launch Nationally Funded Traditional Music Ensemble

Scotland is set to introduce a brand new National Performing Company dedicated to traditional music, which will boost the genre's prominence. First Minister John Swinney unveiled this plan, marking it as the sixth such company in the country, joining others like the National Theatre of Scotland and Scottish Opera. Currently, a public consultation is in progress, with an online survey gathering opinions on the company’s objectives. Culture Secretary Mairi McAllan will also hold discussions with key players in traditional music. This initiative fulfills a promise made by Swinney in his first 100 days. A recent VisitScotland survey found that 79% of Scots believe traditional music strengthens cultural ties, and 88% think it’s vital to preserve it for future generations. In 2023, Scottish music businesses saw a turnover of £27.4 million. Swinney emphasized the genre's rich history and regional variations, encouraging creative contributions from performers across Scotland. The goal is to establish a national platform to support both seasoned artists and new talents.