SEVEN of the region’s best young singers and instrumentalists have just embarked on a three-week tour of Sutherland to promote the culture of the Highlands.
The youngsters, who are taking part in the annual Feis Chataibh Ceilidh Trail, have already visited Brora Golf Club, Shin Falls, Ardgay Hall and The Crask Inn, and they are booked to perform at many more venues across the county.
Auditions for the ceilidh trail, funded by Feisean nan Gaidheal, Blas Festival, Highland Council and the Scottish Arts Council, took place in March, and the selected musicians rehearsed during the Easter holidays and last week.
The chosen musicians are Jessica Midgely-Smith, of Bonar Bridge, Eleanor Moncur, Catriona Murray, Blair Teska and Jennifer Stewart, all of Golspie, Ailsa Quirie, of Port Skerray, and Stephanie Lewicki, of Inverness.
And they have been tutored by Jenn Butterworth, Mairearad Green, Ali Vass and Gordon Gunn.
Ceilidh trail co-ordinator Jennifer Port, of Golspie, said it was founded in 2002 and has gone from strength to strength, encouraging young musicians to play music and share the Gaelic music and song tradition.
She said: “It is a great opportunity for talented young musicians to be given the opportunity to earn money playing music, and gaining valuable experience from touring and playing in a larger group.”
Other events on the trail will be at Clashmore Hall on July 23 at 7.30pm, Dunrobin Castle on July 24 at 3pm, Helmsdale Community Centre on July 24 at 7.30pm, Strathy Hall on July 25 at 7.30pm, Golspie Gala Week Marquee on July 29 at 9.30pm, Shore Street in Golspie on July 30 at 11am, Lochinver Hall on July 31 at 7.30pm and Edderton Hall on July 31 at 7.30pm.
All evening performances are ceilidh dances.