30th October 2026
31st October 2026
1st November 2026
Fionnlagh Mac A’ Phiocar is a Scottish Smallpipes (bellows) pipemaker, musician and singer from the Gàidhlig tradition. He has established himself as a highly regarded and acknowledged exponent of the 'Traditional piping of the Gaels' - the theme of our workshop.
Fionnlagh is a native Gàidhlig speaker from the Isle of North Uist, in the Outer Hebrides and has been immersed in the music of the Hebrides all his life. Fionnlagh will lead our workshop and be joined by Ruairidh Buxton, a fellow piper, flute and whistle player, and Gàidhlig speaker.
This is a two-day practical workshop with complementary lectures focusing on traditional repertoire of Gaelic song and music on the Scottish Smallpipes. The workshop is for those interested in the Scottish Smallpipes (bellow-blown variety) which have had a significant part in Gaelic tradition. We will look at the history of the instrument but, the focus will be on playing. All levels of players are welcome.
There will be two workshop groups, and they will rotate between each tutor. Both groups will also come together to form a “masterclass”, where they will join together to perform. It will be fun!
The Workshop will run between 10.00am and 5.00pm on Saturday, 31st October 2026 and 9.30am and 4.30pm on Sunday, 1st November 2026.
Please check our Festival Club pages for other concerts and sessions.
We hope to announce a Free Children's Festival Club too "Guising" Fancy Dress Competion & "Dookin for Apples".... Cakes, Tea, Coffee.
As part of AGLCS', 'Gaelic Culture in the Community Project 2026/27', we have been looking to support one of our local schools in taking part in the Fèisean nan Gàidheal programme to help children to develop skills in the Arts (music, dance, drama, singing) and we are delighted that Garelochhead Primary School is now working with us on this Project.
We hope to showcase their work as part of a Children's Festival Club - we will keep you posted!