Grant McFarlane is an accordionist and educator from Paisley with a wealth of experience in teaching and performing. Specialising in accordion, Grant has worked extensively with mixed-instrument groups of all ages, fostering a love of music and encouraging participation in traditional Scottish music. Career highlights include performing in countries such as France, Germany, India, and Australia, showcasing Scottish music on an international stage. In 2015, Grant founded Fèis Phàislig, which is celebrating its 10-year anniversary. The Fèis now delivers year-round opportunities for young people in his hometown of Paisley and across Renfrewshire.

In this workshop you will learn some traditional Scottish tunes and gain confidence at picking up tunes by ear. You will be given the sheet music to take home and you will also have the chance to learn a few useful phrases in Scottish Gaelic during the workshop. It is open to all melody players who are intermediate level and up (fiddle/violin, accordion, mandolin, clàrsach etc) If you would like to check if your instrument would suit please get in touch by email.

The workshop will take place at Helensburgh Baptist Church Hall, 7 East King Street on Sunday 23rd of March, 2pm – 5pm.

* To book your place email: [email protected] and please mention what instrument you play.

Cost – Pay as you can on the day of the workshop, money given will go straight back into running more music workshops like this in Helensburgh. All ages welcome – under 16s must bring a guardian.

Accessibility – the workshop will take place on the ground floor, there is a ramp into the building (no stairs) and the venue has a disabled toilet. If you need any assistance or further information please get in touch by email.

Running this workshop has been made possible with support from the Maoin nan Ealan Gàidhlig fund. Mòran taing gu Alba Chruthachail, Bòrd na Gàidhlig agus Fèisean nan Gàidheal. Taing gu Eaglais Bhaisteach Baile Eilidh cuideachd // A huge thanks to Creative Scotland, Bòrd na Gàidhlig and Fèisean nan Gàidheal and also to Helensburgh Baptist Church for kindly providing the venue.

This workshop is in association with the monthly Helensburgh traditional music session which happens on the first Monday of the month at the Commodore Hotel, 7-9pm. All welcome (including under 18s) to join in or listen. For more information see: https://www.facebook.com/HelensburghTradMusicSession/