Opening night is always special, and this year is no exception with the incredible Ciarán Ryan Band plus support from Elizabeth Davidson-Blythe & Daniel Quayle. Book early to avoid disappointment.
10 Nov 22by Nathon Jones
Delighted to confirm the Ciarán Ryan Band for opening night at next year's Newton Stewart & Minnigaff Traditional Music & Dance Festival. Ciarán is an outstanding banjo player and we're sure you're going to love them, LIVE in the Festival Marquee next July. Weekend passes are on sale now.
Already a veteran performer having toured the worlds stages for a decade, predominantly as a founding member of world-folk band Dallahan and as a highly sought after session musician, Ciarán Ryan is quietly becoming recognised as one of the foremost tenor banjo players the UK has ever produced.
The live outfit “Ciarán Ryan Band” was formed in Edinburgh, Scotland following the release of his debut solo album "Banjaxed" in late 2019. The album was shortlisted for "Album of the Year" at the Scots Trad Music Awards.
He now brings his prolific writing and stage experience firmly to the front with his own solo show of all-original music, loosely grown out of his traditional Irish music upbringing that nods towards the idioms of rock, EDM and post-punk music.
The band had an explosive start with a headline show at Celtic Connections and other UK festivals. The live show is a high-octane spectacle of ferocious banjo led music and sheer instrumental brilliance!
BUY Weekend Pass
If you've enjoyed any of the events, festivals and/or tuition at The Vault Arts Centre this year, please drop us a wee vote for this year's MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards. Event of the Year? Venue of the Year? Tutor of the Year? Please vote, and share, and let's grab an award for Galloway!
18 Oct 25Nathon Jones
What a wonderful community of musicians, music lovers and supporters of arts and culture in Dumfries & Galloway we have! Tickets have been flying out the door for the 5th annual Autumn Trad Festival which will take place over 17th & 18th October featuring Tarran (Trio) and Swinging on Birches.
14 Oct 25Nathon Jones
Despite best efforts to promote this year's Autumn Trad Festival - an event that champions young people in traditional music and which was due to celebrate its 5th annual event this year - a lack of funding and poor ticket sales may see the event cancelled.
9 Oct 25Nathon Jones
Newton Stewart & Minnigaff Traditional Music & Dance Festival will celebrate its 10th anniversary over 11th-13th July 2025. It's an incredible achievement. The charity has created a viable, sustainable, event that continues to grow and develop, proudly celebrating the very best in traditional Scottish, Irish and World music. Make sure you book early for what is shaping up to be the biggest event yet!