News Summary
Charleston, South Carolina is set to host the Scottish Performing Arts Classic, featuring competitions in harp, bagpipe, and fiddle. Scheduled for June 6-7, the event will showcase both emerging and established musicians as part of the Piccolo Spoleto festival. Highlights include a concert by acclaimed Scottish harpist Maeve Gilchrist and various competitions honoring Scottish musical tradition. Tickets range from $30 to $50. This event aims to engage the community while celebrating rich cultural heritage.
Charleston to Host Scottish Performing Arts Classic Featuring Harp, Bagpipe, and Fiddle Competitions
Charleston, South Carolina will be the site of the Scottish Performing Arts Classic, scheduled for June 6-7, 2023, at the historic South Carolina Society Hall. This event, which has become a key fixture during the Piccolo Spoleto festival, highlights the rich traditions of Scottish and Gaelic music, showcasing competitions in three specific performance categories: piobaireachd (Highland bagpipes), clarsach (harp), and Scottish fiddle.
Retired Canadian Army Maj. Bruce W MacDonald, closely associated with the Robert Burns Society of Charleston and the Clan Donald Trust, is playing a significant role in organizing the event. Both organizations are dedicated to preserving and celebrating Scottish and Gaelic cultural heritage. The Performing Arts Classic, now in its fifth year, serves as an important platform for emerging talent as well as established musicians.
The event will also feature special performances, including a solo concert by acclaimed Scottish harpist Maeve Gilchrist, who has worked with prestigious musicians such as Yo-Yo Ma and has released five successful albums. Her concert is set for 1 p.m. on June 6, marking the first of four events planned for the two-day celebration.
Competition Schedule
The following competitions will take place during the Scottish Performing Arts Classic:
- Solo Scottish harp concert by Maeve Gilchrist at 1 p.m. on June 6
- 2025 Joseph MacDonald Memorial Prize for Piobaireachd at 5 p.m. on June 6
- 2025 Princess Margaret of the Isles Memorial Clarsach Competition at 1 p.m. on June 7
- 2025 Dan R. MacDonald Memorial Fiddle Competition at 4 p.m. on June 7
The piobaireachd competition will particularly emphasize the unique characteristics of this genre of Scottish classical music, which can last from 10 to 20 minutes and is known for its emotional intensity and elaborate structures. It is often considered the classical equivalent of Highland bagpipes, thus showcasing a distinctive aspect of Scottish musical tradition.
Community Engagement and Cultural Significance
Diane Smith, a board member of the Robert Burns Society, has expressed her deep connection to Gaelic music and the fiddle, citing her experiences traveling to Scotland five times for her involvement in the society. This personal passion aligns with the broader mission of the Robert Burns Society, which aims to foster community engagement with Scottish heritage through events like the Classic, the upcoming Tartan Ball in November, and the Burns Supper in January.
Col. (Ret.) Wayne Morgan, president of the Robert Burns Society, emphasizes that the competition will attract international talent, providing an exceptional opportunity for participants and attendees alike. The event not only showcases the artistry of Scottish music but also serves to strengthen community ties around the appreciation of cultural heritage.
Ticket Information
Tickets for the Scottish Performing Arts Classic are available for purchase, priced between $30 and $50. Interested individuals can acquire tickets at citypapertickets.com, ensuring they do not miss this opportunity to experience a rich and vibrant celebration of Scottish performing arts.
As the Scottish Performing Arts Classic approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be a memorable celebration of cultural heritage and musical excellence in the heart of Charleston.
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Additional Resources
- Charleston City Paper
- Savannah Now
- Garden & Gun
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Scottish music
- Wikipedia: Scottish music
