Not even travel chaos in the skies and on the seas could dampen the spirits of hundreds of music revellers who made their way to the first Tiree Music Festival held last weekend. Young and old, Tirisdeachs and visitors came together to join in the two day music celebrations at the sell-out event which brought together some of the biggest names from the folk and traditional music scene.
In spite of cancelled flights on the Saturday and disruption to the Tiree ferry service, visitors and artists made their way to Tiree to be part of the unmissable music event. From Tirisdeach acts such as Skerryvore, Skipinnish, Gunna Sound, Trail West and the Defenders to visiting musicians Fortunate Sons, Crooked Reel, Torridon and international artist Sandi Thom, the music line-up proved to be a winning festival formula for all.
Held on the grounds of the An Talla community hall in Crossapol, the Tiree Music Festival was hosted by actor and presenter Arthur Donald, who hails originally from the township of Vaul on the east end of the island. Beyond the music, the festival boasted other exciting activities including whisky tasting, an open stage for wannabe performers of all ages, gaelic drama workshops and a children’s ceilidh with local band Trail West.
The inaugural event was launched on Saturday evening with a procession by the Tiree Pipe Band to the festival site, and music festivities made a grand finale on Sunday evening with a unique performance by the All Star Tiree Ceilidh Band which united the island’s array of talented musicians on stage including pipers, guitarists, accordionists and drummers.
Festival organiser and Skerryvore musician, Daniel Gillespie, is thrilled with the response to the weekend’s event:
“After almost a year of organising and planning it was incredible to finally see it all come together. The reaction from locals and visitors was fantastic and their support and conduct throughout the weekend meant that this first festival was a huge success. “Plans are already underway for TMF 2011 and with such a high demand for tickets this year, we hope to increase the capacity for next year so that more people can come join in the festival experience in this unique location. “A massive thanks to all who supported the event, especially the sponsors, staff and volunteers and of course the bands whose talents kept the masses entertained all weekend!”
Watch out for news on TMF 2011 at www.tireemusicfestival.co.uk.
