Tradfest presents Brìghde Chaimbeul | Chris Stout & Catriona McKay.

about

Brìghde Chaimbeul is a leading voice in Scottish traditional music and one of the most innovative pipers of her generation. Hailing from the Isle of Skye, she plays the Scottish smallpipes and is known for her hypnotic, meditative style that draws on a rich tapestry of global piping traditions — from Cape Breton and Ireland to Bulgaria and beyond. A BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award winner and acclaimed solo artist, Brìghde has collaborated with musicians such as Aidan O’Rourke, Colin Stetson, Caroline Polachek, and Ross Ainslie. Her distinctive sound, rooted in tradition but unafraid to push boundaries, has captivated audiences worldwide.

Catriona McKay (Scottish harp) and Chris Stout (Shetland fiddle) form one of the most inventive and expressive duos in contemporary traditional music. Renowned for their deep musical connection, fearless improvisation, and genre-defying creativity, they have forged a sound that is both rooted in Scottish tradition and refreshingly original. Their long-standing partnership is built on a shared commitment to pushing the boundaries of their instruments and the music they love.

As members of the acclaimed Shetland group Fiddlers’ Bid, they helped reshape the landscape of Scottish fiddle music. Together and individually, they have collaborated with a wide range of artists and ensembles, including Scottish Ensemble, Mr McFall’s Chamber, Seamus Begley, Dónal Lunny, Karine Polwart, and Swedish nyckelharpa player Olov Johansson. Their work with classical groups like the Vertavo String Quartet and Northern Sinfonia further demonstrates their versatility and adventurous spirit.

Their performances, whether in intimate venues or on international stages, are known for their warmth, virtuosity, and emotional depth. With critically acclaimed albums and an ever-expanding musical curiosity, McKay and Stout continue to inspire audiences around the world, bridging tradition and innovation with every note.

“Operating at a rarefied level of expertise.” – The Herald, Scotland