Musicians across the north are being encouraged to embrace the natural elements as part of a national competition.
In Tune With Nature is a contest calling on musicians from across all genres to show their love of nature by writing music inspired by the coasts and waters of the countries’ beautiful nature reserves.
Beinn Eighe, Creag Meagaidh, Noss and the Isle of Rum National Nature Reserves (NNRs) are among 10 nature reserves featured in the competition, which will close on May 31.
The inaugural competition is being brought forward in partnership by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and Fèis Rois as part of celebrations to mark the Year of Coasts and Waters 2020.
Ian Sargeant, SNH’s NNR manager for North & West Scotland, said: “There’s so much to be inspired by on our nature reserves, particularly during the Year of Coasts and Waters 2020.
“Music and nature have so much in common – they’re both moving and give us so much pleasure. We can’t wait to hear what people come up with to make us see these special places in a new light.”
All entries will be put before panel of well-known judges including Julie Fowlis, Vic Galloway, Gill Maxwell and Karine Polwart, with the winner due to be announced on June 26.
The 10 winning artists will each receive a £500 cash prize and make a film on the nature reserve which inspired their piece, as well as have the opportunity to perform live through the year.
Fiona Dalgetty, Chief executive of Fèis Rois, added: “We at Fèis Rois are thrilled to be collaborating on this new project with SNH to encourage musicians to create new work inspired by our beautiful landscapes in Scotland. We also believe that musicians have an invitation here to make a creative response to the climate challenge affecting our natural heritage in Scotland today.”
There are 43 national nature reserves in Scotland, also known as Scotland’s natural crown jewels, showcasing the very best of Scottish nature.
