Entertainers hoping to turn an empty Moray museum into a music school and venue will hold a meeting tomorrow.
The Buckie Drifter, which has lain dormant since its doors closed in 2005, could be brought back to life to house music lessons and concerts.
James Alexander, a founder of the Fochabers Fiddlers and Speyfest, is one of the driving forces behind the bid, and believes the centre would encourage budding musicians to stay in the north-east.
He said: “It’s early days yet, but we’re investigating the possibility of taking over control of the building from the council.
“I believe there’s enough interest amongst the public to make this work.
“There is such a lot of musical talent in the area – that’s not an opinion, it’s an undeniable fact.
“However, at the moment, people who want to pursue a career in music have to travel south to Edinburgh or Glasgow to study. Often, that’s the last time we see them.
“Having a music school in Buckie would allow young people to stay in the area, and maybe tempt back a few who have left.”
The broad plan is to build several music practice rooms as well as a stage inside the Freuchny Road building.
Work would also be required on the building’s outsides, while the heating system will need replacing.
An initial estimate is that the work would cost about £200,000.
Mr Alexander, who has been involved with the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in Glasgow, said although the focus of the building would be on traditional music, there would also be scope for other types of musicians to be play and practice there.
The Buckie Drifter opened in 1994 as a museum detailing the history of the fishing communities along the Moray Firth coast.
It closed just over a decade later due to rising costs and dwindling visitor numbers.
Tomorrow’s meeting will be held from 7pm in Buckie Town Hall. All welcome.