CLICK HERE TO ADD YOUR EVENT

Curtain closes on Celtic Connections 2024

World-renowned festival Celtic Connections drew to a triumphant close last night after 18 days of spectacular sold-out concerts, innovative musical sessions and star-studded collaborations.

Curtain closes on Celtic Connections 2024

Article Source: Celtic Connections
Last Updated: 5 February 2024 8:33

From Thursday 18 January to Sunday 4 February, the city came alive with over 300 incredible events involving 1,200 artists across 25 of the city’s venues.

The biggest winter festival of its kind in Europe, known for its eclectic mix of genres and inclusive atmosphere, is celebrating over 100 sold out shows across its 300 events alongside welcoming over 115,000 attendees.

Once-in-a-lifetime collaborations, rare performances from global sensations, moving tribute concerts and some of the biggest shows ever played by homegrown talent were all showcased across the city for the incredible 31st edition of Celtic Connections.

Among the hundreds of sensational concerts, each of which celebrated the tradition, innovation and unifying power of music, were:

The dazzling Opening Concert, which welcomed the expansive and genre-defying European premiere of ATTENTION! from American Grammy winner Chris Thile (Nickel Creek) and guests including festival favourites Rachel Sermanni, Dreamers’ Circus and Sarah Jarosz. A fitting start to the festival, the night was one of unparalleled musical creativity, leaving audiences in awe

The Red Clydeside: John MacLean Centenary Concert, which celebrated the music, poetry and legacy of Scottish schoolteacher and legendary revolutionary socialist John MacLean, was an evening of passion and inimitable talent. Led by the brilliant Siobhan Miller, Eddi Reader, Billy Bragg and Karine Polwart, a surprise performance from Scottish social protest singer Dick Gaughan was a hugely emotional and iconic moment during the evening

Roaming Roots Review, this year with the theme Songs of Modern Scotland, brought together music from a who’s who of Scottish talent for a night which celebrated some of the most phenomenal artists and iconic tracks this country has produced. Joining the event’s curator and host Roddy Hart on stage were Biffy Clyro’s Simon Neil, Idlewild’s Roddy Woomble and Rod Jones, Del Amitri’s Justin Currie, Camera Obscura’s Tracyanne Campbell, celebrated singer-songwriter Emma Pollock, uber talented Hamish Hawk, Admiral Fallow’s Sarah Hayes and Louis Abbott and the inimitable Brownbear among other hugely talented musicians. The night was accompanied by a Royal Conservatoire of Scotland Orchestra, arranged and conducted by John Logan

The Bothy Band, one of the most influential and revered Irish ensembles to revolutionise the playing of traditional music in recent generations, made their mark on Celtic Connections 2024 with a highly-anticipated, long-awaited performance. For the first time since 1979, Donal Lunny on bouzouki, Tríona ní Dhomhnaill on keyboards, Matt Molloy on flute, Paddy Keenan on Uilleann pipes and low whistle, and Paddy Glackin and Kevin Burke on fiddle came together to perform their first full-scale public concert, joined by Seán Óg Graham on guitar

Always a Celtic Connections highlight, Transatlantic Sessions celebrated the rich musical traditions that connect Scotland, Ireland and the US. Featuring an outstanding line-up of artists, including AmericanaFest’s “Can’t Miss Act” Lindsay Lou, Grammy nominated singer-songwriter Carlene Carter, Belfast-based progressive Irish folk singer-songwriter Joshua Burnside, previous Scots Trad Music Awards Gaelic singer of the year Kim Carnie and captivating Canadian duo Allison de Groot and Tatiana Hargreaves, the night saw audiences soak up an exceptional assortment of tunes, songs and genres

A special evening celebrating the life and legacy of Tiree accordionist Gordon Connell was A Ceilidh for Gordon at the iconic Old Fruitmarket. The revered musician and teacher was remembered through music and dance, and the memorable night was led by a host of his former students, including Angus MacPhail of Skipinnish, Gunna Sound’s Campbell Brown, Skerryvore’s Daniel and Martin Gillespie, Trail West’s Ian Smith, Tide Lines’ Ross Wilson and many more

Grammy nominee and multi-award-winning musician Allison Russell wowed crowds at Òran Mór with her purposeful music, portraying a soulful expression of liberation, love and respect. The Canadian songstress’ mastery of her craft was on full display as she commanded the spotlight with her soul-stirring vocals, unrivalled musical talent and powerful words

In a commemorative celebration, the Traditional Music and Song Association revisited the landmark Scots Women concert from the 2001 festival. Scots Women - Generations o' Change honoured the original singers of the first performance, while welcoming a new wave of Scottish female folk singers, showcasing a blend of a capella and band-accompanied songs. Featuring an esteemed lineup, the event was overseen by Musical Director Iona Fyfe and hosted by Scots Poet Len Pennie, providing a vibrant, collaborative journey through Scottish folk music

Showcase Scotland, another core event within Celtic Connections, highlighted international partners Norway during the five-day programme which took place between Wednesday 24 January and Monday 29 January. The initiative welcomed international delegates from all over the UK, Europe, Australia, America and Canada to join in appreciation of the Scandinavian talent playing at the festival, including Tromsø-born violinist, singer and composer Julie Alapnes, award-winning Hardanger fiddle player Alexander Aga Røynstrand, Norwegian traditional trios Erlend Viken and Ævestaden, Nordic folk five-piece Gangar, and Sámi band Gabba. Paired with Norway partners at Showcase Scotland was the Sounds of Scotland Showcase, supported by Creative Scotland, highlighting Gaelic and Scots artists performing in traditional and folk music spaces. Next year will see Ireland once again take up the mantle as Showcase Scotland partner

Barony Hall proved to be a spectacular setting for the first time at this year’s Celtic Connections. The stunning building, ideally located in the city centre, was newly introduced as a venue for the 2024 festival, welcoming world-class performers such as award-winning trad band Breabach, revered folk musician John McCusker, Irish fiddler Martyn Hayes and multi-talented Damien O’Kane, to name a few

Music workshops and teaching sessions were also in full swing over the past 18 days. From composing tunes from scratch to having a go at the bagpipes and learning the ukulele, participants had the chance to fully immerse themselves in every facet of the festival, while the festival’s free school concerts programme shared the joy of live music of 8,000 school children from across Scotland over the course of four morning shows

Donald Shaw, Creative Producer for Celtic Connections, said: “This year's Celtic Connections was a testament to the creative power and enduring importance of the arts and the music of the people. The richness of talent on display, the diverse range of genres and the infectious enthusiasm of the audiences made this year’s edition truly special. It's heartening to see the festival grow and evolve, bringing together artists and audiences from all walks of life, joined by a shared appreciation for music, art and cultural expression.

“The continued success of Celtic Connections reflects the passion and commitment of everyone involved. My thanks goes to each person who bought a ticket, performed on our stages, volunteered their time, worked on or backed the event, and to the people of Glasgow who welcomed the world with open arms. Your support is the heartbeat of the festival, and it's your enthusiasm and dedication that make this celebration of music possible year after year.

“Scotland has a rich tapestry of musical traditions, and Celtic Connections is a platform that showcases the beauty and diversity of our own folk music, as well as that of other countries, and the expansive connections it has created. I am immensely proud of how well Scotland continues to champion folk music on the global stage, and feel truly excited about the path that lies ahead for what we’re proud to say has become a world-renowned event.”


Culture Minister Christina McKelvie said: “Celtic Connections always provides a brilliant start to the year and as another successful edition draws to a close I want to give my thanks to everyone who made it possible and all those who attended.

“I was fortunate enough to be able to see several fantastic performances over the course of this year’s festival, including the opening concert, the Norwegian acts that played at Showcase Scotland, and the wonderful Red Clydeside Centenary Concert for the great John Maclean. The talent, warmth and energy that Celtic Connections always brings never fails to impress and I’m sure I’m not alone in eagerly awaiting next year’s programme.”


Glasgow Life Chair, Bailie Annette Christie, said: “Celtic Connections 2024 has been a resounding success, and a spectacular showcase of some of the very finest musical talent that Scotland, and almost every corner of the globe, has to offer across a wealth of genres.

“This year’s wonderfully expansive, exciting programme, and superb international line-up of established and emerging artists, has delighted a very broad range of audiences and attracted festival goers in their thousands. A remarkable range of shows, special performances and inspirational events have been staged at our venues over the past 18 days – further enhancing Glasgow’s reputation as a world-class cultural events destination and shining the spotlight on its status as a celebrated UNESCO City of Music.

“This 31st edition of Celtic Connections has not only demonstrated how internationally renowned and much-loved this unique festival is, it has also emphasised how immeasurably important it is to Glasgow and to Scotland – and we look forward to building on its incredible legacy in future years.”


Alan Morrison, Head of Music at Creative Scotland said: “Powered by the energy of its artists and enthusiasm of its audiences, Celtic Connections has given Scotland’s music scene the best possible start to 2024. From the Opening Concert onwards, fans have sung the praises of some of the best gigs they’ve ever seen at this or any other festival. It’s a triumph for our own traditional music and a prime example of how connecting with artists from all over the world can brighten the darkest days.”

Celtic Connections began in 1994 when it offered 66 events at one venue. It has since grown more adventurous, experimental and diverse each year, with an unwavering ambition to showcase the very best traditional folk, roots, Americana, jazz, soul, indie and world music and nurture unique local, national and international cultural partnerships.

Celtic Connections is now a core part of the city’s annual cultural events programme, delivered by charity Glasgow Life. Opportunities to support future editions of the festival can be found at www.celticconnections.com/celtic-connections-supporters.

Celtic Connections 2025 will take place from Thursday 16 January - Sunday 2 February 2025.

Sponsored Links

Glasgow Science Centre
TGC Leisure

Latest Lanarkshire News

Fresh new line up for one of the biggest FREE food and drink festivals in Scotland

Fresh new line up for one of the biggest FREE food and drink festivals in Scotland

Vikings, a pie eating competition, new celebrated chef and dog & duck shows set to bring new energy to Loch Lomond Food and Drink Festival this September.

READ MORE
From pouring pints to the red carpet: The Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025 crowns its hospitality stars!

From pouring pints to the red carpet: The Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025 crowns its hospitality stars!

The winners of the 2025 Scottish Bar & Pub Awards were unveiled on the 26th of August at a glittering, Oscars-themed ceremony held at the Doubletree by Hilton, Glasgow.

READ MORE
Best Croissant Competition returns for 2025

Best Croissant Competition returns for 2025

The Edinburgh Butter Company has announced the return of its ‘Scotland’s Best Croissant’ competition on Monday 13th October.

READ MORE
GlasGLOW announces all new show for 2025, inspired by the legendary 80s campaign that made Glasgow smile

GlasGLOW announces all new show for 2025, inspired by the legendary 80s campaign that made Glasgow smile

itison has confirmed that GlasGLOW will return to the Botanic Gardens from 24th October – 2nd November for its eighth year and with its biggest show yet... GlasGLOW's Miles Better!

READ MORE
Historic Environment Scotland launches Talking About Heritage

Historic Environment Scotland launches Talking About Heritage

People across Scotland invited to take part in national conversation about heritage.

READ MORE
Tickets now on sale for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Tickets now on sale for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo closes the drawbridge on its 75th anniversary Show, as tickets for next year go on sale.

READ MORE
Beat the Street physical activity game returns to Cambuslang and Rutherglen this autumn!

Beat the Street physical activity game returns to Cambuslang and Rutherglen this autumn!

A popular physical activity game returns to Cambuslang and Rutherglen from Wednesday, 17th September to Wednesday, 29th October.

READ MORE
Primark celebrates 50 years in Scotland with a wee nod to loyal Scots in all stores today

Primark celebrates 50 years in Scotland with a wee nod to loyal Scots in all stores today

Scottish shoppers will hardly believe it when they see it today as Primark finally relents on one of its biggest brand debates after 50 years.

READ MORE
M&Ds carve out a great family day out this October

M&Ds carve out a great family day out this October

M&D's Scotland's Theme Park has launched details of its Pumpkin Festival taking place in October!

READ MORE
Christmas at Crieff Hydro returns with magical line up of festive activities

Christmas at Crieff Hydro returns with magical line up of festive activities

Scotland's best loved family resort, Crieff Hydro, has unveiled details of a specially curated programme of events as it prepares to welcome guests over the festive period.

READ MORE
Scots Language Awards 2025 shortlist unveiled

Scots Language Awards 2025 shortlist unveiled

The shortlist for the Scots Language Awards 2025 has been unveiled, with figures from Scottish literature, theatre, education and business all in the running for awards at the annual ceremony.

READ MORE
Cheers to 50 years of Primark in Scotland and Hamilton

Cheers to 50 years of Primark in Scotland and Hamilton

This Thursday, 21st August, Primark is celebrating 50 years since it opened its doors for the first time in Scotland, and the home of that first store was in Hamilton!

READ MORE
Innis & Gunn wins double gold at the World Beer Awards 2025

Innis & Gunn wins double gold at the World Beer Awards 2025

Innis & Gunn has claimed double gold on the global stage, winning best in Scotland for the second year running at the World Beer Awards.

READ MORE
Santa Claus is coming to Dobbies

Santa Claus is coming to Dobbies

From exciting encounters with Santa himself to hands-on workshops and joyful family moments, Dobbies is the destination for festive fun this Christmas!

READ MORE
Singalong screening of K Pop Demon Hunters heading to Vue venues in Scotland, with tickets on sale now

Singalong screening of K Pop Demon Hunters heading to Vue venues in Scotland, with tickets on sale now

One of the most-watched films on Netflix is heading to Vue next weekend for a special sing-along event – with tickets on sale now!

READ MORE
Free September gardening workshops at Dobbies

Free September gardening workshops at Dobbies

Dobbies Garden Centres is inspiring gardeners across Scotland this September with two free-to-attend gardening workshops, Little Seedlings Club and Grow How, suitable for all ages and abilities.

READ MORE
Finalists announced for Scottish Bar & Pubs Awards 2025

Finalists announced for Scottish Bar & Pubs Awards 2025

Lights, Pints, Action! Scotland's pubs go for gold at the hospitality industry's very own oscars.

READ MORE
Crossbasket Castle unveils holistic wellness experiences to nourish the mind, body and soul

Crossbasket Castle unveils holistic wellness experiences to nourish the mind, body and soul

From one-day yoga and breathwork retreats to an overnight luxury Fire & Ice Wellness experience, these events offer the perfect escape to restore, reflect, and recharge.

READ MORE
Cereal giant to support STV Childrens Appeal campaign to fund breakfast clubs in Scottish schools

Cereal giant to support STV Childrens Appeal campaign to fund breakfast clubs in Scottish schools

Stronger Together: Kellogg's pledges pound-for-pound match for Big Scottish Breakfast Fundraiser.

READ MORE
Earlybird tickets drive buzz for 2026 Scottish Motorhome, Caravan & Holiday Home Show

Earlybird tickets drive buzz for 2026 Scottish Motorhome, Caravan & Holiday Home Show

The biggest show of its kind in Scotland returns with Earlybird tickets and a give-away with headline sponsor Border Caravans!

READ MORE
Clyde Scouts celebrate 100 years of outdoor adventure at Auchengillan

Clyde Scouts celebrate 100 years of outdoor adventure at Auchengillan

New high ropes course and giant swing unveiled in landmark investment for centenary.

READ MORE
Alona to host family wrestling event

Alona to host family wrestling event

If you know the difference between your babyface from your heel, then you're going to love the Iron Girders Gym Pro Wrestling show taking place at the Alona Hotel.

READ MORE
Celebrate the last days of summer at M&Ds

Celebrate the last days of summer at M&Ds

If you are looking to entertain the family in the run up to the schools returning, then M&D's Scotland's Theme Park has the ideal day out!

READ MORE
Session schedule unveiled for Glasgow 2026

Session schedule unveiled for Glasgow 2026

With packed venues and 30 medal sessions across 50 sport sessions, it's shaping up to be one of the most electric weekends in Glasgow's sporting history!

READ MORE
Free ice cream up for grabs in Hamilton

Free ice cream up for grabs in Hamilton

Equi's to give away free award-winning ice cream in Hamilton this Friday following 11-star Great Taste win!

READ MORE
Scots Language Awards on hunt for nominees

Scots Language Awards on hunt for nominees

The Scots Language Awards are now welcoming nominations for this year’s celebration of Scots.

READ MORE
BBC River City star Stephen Purdon joins the Go Radio Breakfast Show

BBC River City star Stephen Purdon joins the Go Radio Breakfast Show

Popular Scottish actor Stephen Purdon, best known for his long-standing role as Bob O'Hara in BBC soap River City, is joining The Go Radio Breakfast Show.

READ MORE
Dobbies unveils spellbinding lineup of Autumn events

Dobbies unveils spellbinding lineup of Autumn events

This October and November, Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting customers along to its trio of enchanting autumn events that are lined up across the country, helping kick-start the season.

READ MORE
Tutankhamun: The Immersive Exhibition has officially opened its doors at SEC Glasgow, following a sell out 14 week run in London

Tutankhamun: The Immersive Exhibition has officially opened its doors at SEC Glasgow, following a sell out 14 week run in London

This award-winning exhibition welcomes visitors for an extraordinary journey through Ancient Egypt, exploring the myths and mysteries surrounding Pharaoh Tutankhamun.

READ MORE
Five fascinating historic facts about Scone Palace... the crowning place of kings

Five fascinating historic facts about Scone Palace... the crowning place of kings

Scone Palace isn't just a beautiful day out, it's one of Scotland's most iconic historic sites, steeped in royal tradition, political intrigue and centuries of national significance.

READ MORE

Sponsored Links

ATG
Hostelworld
Go Radio

Sponsored Links

Glasgow Science Centre
TGC Leisure
ATG
Hostelworld
Go Radio

Popular Events

Christmas at New Lanark
Step into the magic of the season at New Lanark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it's transformed into a winter wonderland for Christmas at New Lanark 2025!
Black Ball Final - 40th Anniversary Tour
Come and join Steve Davis and Dennis Taylor at The Town House Hamilton as they recreate the match that gripped a nation... the 1985 World Snooker Final!
Cinema: Hamilton
To celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Hamilton, the recording of the original Broadway cast is hitting the big screen at Airdrie Town Hall for two special screenings in September!
Coatbridge Community Fun Day
A day of free fun for the local community is being held at Coatbridge's West End Park on Saturday 6th September!
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Gather your Sweet Transvestites and come on over to Frankenstein's Place for a screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show this Halloween at Cumbernauld Theatre!

Popular Listings

Airdrie Town Hall Chatelherault Country Park East Kilbride Arts Centre East Kilbride Village Theatre Lanark Memorial Hall Lanternhouse Cumbernauld Rutherglen Town Hall Strathclyde Country Park The Town House Hamilton