Fochabers' Arc Sessions boasts big-name line-up

A MORAY village venue is putting itself on the Scottish music map with a line-up of big names for 2020.

The launch of the Arc Sessions programme for its fourth year sees some of the hottest acts on the scene heading for Fochabers Institute.

Arc Sessions organiser Mhairi Marwick said: "I am so excited to invite all these incredible musicians to Fochabers for what will be a brilliant year of live Scottish music."

The group has introduced a new concert to kick off the programme on March 7 – Scotland’s Fiddle Legends – pulling together on one stage the unique styles of contemporary Scottish greats Paul Anderson, Gordon Gunn, Patsy Reid and Gregor Borland.

Two bands will mark their own special anniversaries with Fochabers gigs this year – strong favourites Skerryvore will return on May 23 for their 15th year together and RURA, hailed as "one of the most exciting bands on the Scottish folk scene", will celebrate their 10th anniversary on September 12.

Old Blind Dogs will be back on April 11 – they went down a storm when they performed at the Institute three years ago.

Arc Session first-timers include leading folk bands Fara, from Orkney, on June 19, and Talisk, on October 31. Fara describe their three-fiddle and piano sound as "fiery" and strongly rooted in Orkney traditions, while BBC Radio 2's Simon Mayo has said Talisk were "setting scary standards".

A stomping end is planned to 2020 with a Hogmanay ceilidh featuring Skara Ceilidh Band on December 31.

Mhairi added: "I’m absolutely delighted with the programme and hope these concerts will attract large audiences from near and far."

Tickets can be purchased online from www.arcsessions.com, Christie’s chemist in Fochabers, or contact Mhairi Marwick on 07810 174377.

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