Scotland to establish National Performing Company for traditional music

The Scottish Government has launched a public consultation to establish a new National Performing Company dedicated to championing Scotland’s traditional music sector. The initiative aims to raise the global profile of Scottish folk music and provide a platform for both established and emerging talents, similar to existing institutions like the National Theatre of Scotland and Scottish Opera.

First Minister John Swinney recently hosted a reception for the sector at Bute House and attended a folk music showcase in Edinburgh. To shape the organization, the government has introduced an online survey and Culture Secretary Mairi McAllan will lead a roundtable discussion with industry leaders. The move follows a 2024 VisitScotland survey indicating that 79% of Scots feel a cultural connection to traditional music, while 88% believe its preservation is vital for future generations.