Local artists set to host music extravaganza in Inverness to raise funds for Mikeysline
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An Inverness musician is keen to bring other local artists together in order to raise as much money and awareness for mental health charity, Mikeysline.
Local musician, Michael MacGillivray (33), from Inverness, is an avid supporter of the mental health charity, Mikeysline, and in aid of raising awareness, he is doing what he knows best by hosting a gig to fundraise for the cause.
This evening (Saturday, March 30) Michael, known to perform under the name MACGILLI, will be hosting an event aimed to bring a range of local musicians together and raise funds for Mikeysline.
When talking about the gig, Michael said: “The gig that I'm hosting is to showcase some of the fantastic music that the local music scene has to offer with the aim to help raise funds for Mikeysline.
“I've seen what the struggles of poor mental health can have on people up here in the Highlands and afar, so I've always wanted to raise funds in some way for a charity such as Mikeysline. I felt the only natural way to do this for me was through music.”
When talking about why this event is so important to him, Michael said: “Raising money for Mikeysline I feel is so important because depression and everything that is involved in the subject is a real issue up here in the Highlands.
“I've seen the effects of what it can do to those that I hold close to me. So if I could even raise something to help aid a charity that helps support those that are in need, then I feel it's essential that I do so.”
Michael has been playing music since he was 16-years-old and now writes ‘very unique instrumental’ songs that hold a ‘celtic-like feel throughout each piece’. The musician has since grown a love for playing live music as he believes it ‘always brings people together in a positive setting which is most important’ for him.
While Michael is an experienced musician, he has never hosted an event like this before and is ‘excited’, but more so for the cause that is behind it.
He said: “Mental health is nothing to be ashamed of and even though it's such a taboo subject, it's unfortunately becoming more and more common. Hosting an event like this gives me the opportunity to shine the spotlight on what is already a well established charity here in the Highlands and I would like to encourage those in need of support to approach Mikeysline.”
Since setting up a GoFundMe page for Mikeysline just over a month ago, Michael has raised an impressive £400 for the charity and is looking forward to raising more from the event.
He said: “People have been so generous so far so whatever is to be raised on the night is a total bonus to me.”
On the night Michael will be playing alongside two other local musicians known as Craig Robertson and The Wispz. Craig is known for his infectious melodies and catchy hooks, while The Wispz’ heartfelt lyrics and powerful vocals will leave you mesmerised.
Michael’s event starts at 7pm-10.30pm, March 30, and will be based in Upstairs Inverness. Tickets are £8 each and booking is available online.
