World Gaelic Week celebrations set to come to Moray
An interactive Gaelic sing-a-long and a public talk on Gaelic place names are the highlights, as Moray celebrates World Gaelic Week.
Taking place from February 24 until March 2 Seachdain na Gàidhlig (World Gaelic Week) celebrates the language, aiming to raise its profile across the globe.
The online events in Moray are being held in English and Gaelic, so that everyone can get involved.
First up, at 7pm on Wednesday, February 26 Meg Hyland, looks at traditional Gaelic songs sung by herring gutters. The audience will learn more about their origins and have the chance to learn the songs themselves, with an opportunity to join in although audience participation is not compulsory.
Meg said: “I’m very much looking forward to taking part in Moray’s World Gaelic Week celebrations sharing the rich tradition of Gaelic song, and its unique connection with herring gutters of the past.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to bring people together to appreciate and preserve this important part of Scotland’s cultural heritage.”
.At 3pm on Friday, February 28, Iain Taylor holds a public talk examining Gaelic place names, their origins and importance.He will also look at peculiarities in Gaelic vocabulary and grammar.
He said: “These names are a fascinating link to Scotland’s past, revealing much about the landscape and our history.
“Understanding their meaning not only deepens our understanding of Gaelic as a language, but of the places themselves.”
Following World Gaelic Week on Wednesday, March 5, a new online class for beginners launches, costing £8 for adults.
Moray Council Leader, Cllr Kathleen Robertson, added: “World Gaelic Week is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate and promote Scottish Gaelic, and I’m sure these activities will inspire more people to consider learning to speak the language.
“As the events are online they’re accessible to the widest possible audience, and they are designed to be informative for all, whether you have no knowledge of Gaelic or are a fluent speaker.”
To sogn up for an event, visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/
