North’s finest in tune for Mòd glory Sophie Stewart from Conon Bridge winning first place in two competitions and Andrew Cumming taking the honours when he won Accordion Contemporary Under 19
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There was success last week for Highland residents at the Royal National Mòd which is being held in Perth.
Sophie Stewart, from Conon Bridge, won first place in two competitions – she was first place in the age 11-12 fluent solo singing girls’ category as well as the traditional fluent solo singing competition.
And Andrew Cumming, from Gairloch High School, took the honours when he won Accordion Contemporary Under 19.
The recipient of the Gaelic Learner of the Year Award was Sheena Amos, from the Black Isle, who has been recognised for making significant steps to becoming fluent.
This was the first time in three years the title, which is sponsored by the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society for Scotland, has been awarded.
Tuesday saw the Mòd’s first-ever Battle of the Bands event, which will take place at The Joan Knight Studio in Perth Theatre.
Going head to head the next generation of Scottish bands are competing to win coveted studio time at The Wee Studio in Stornoway – which has been famously used by local band Peat and Diesel.
On the same day were the girls and boys Traditional Silver Medal competitions, the girls An Comunn Gàidhealach Pendant and boys An Comunn Gàidhealach Kilt Pin competitions and a new Battle of the Bands competition.
Historically, Wednesday was the Mòd’s literature day, and there were various literary events held throughout the city – including the crowning of the Bard and literature prize-giving, the launch of two new Gaelic song books from Acair, and an evening of Hidden Songs and Stories with Celt Langhorne, Munro Gauld and Neil Baillie.
Speaking on Tuesday, James Graham, the chief executive of An Comunn Gàidhealach, said: “Today’s programme is full of fantastic opportunities for young and emerging musicians.
“The junior competitions are an extremely important part of Mòd week; they showcase breakthrough talent and give a platform to the future of Gaelic culture and song.
“The Battle of the Bands event is sure to be extremely entertaining and, again, will showcase emerging musical talent and offer national recognition to those taking part.
“Today’s fringe events have a strong children and family focus, and we are very much looking forward to welcoming some of Gaeldom’s greats to converse and interact with youngsters at the Sruth event. It is sure to be rewarding for all involved.”
Shona MacLennan, Ceannard, Bòrd na Gàidhlig said it was “hugely encouraging” to see the number of children attending the Mòd again this year.
Highlights are available to watch on the BBC iPlayer.
