The Show
My aim with 'Thursday Night Live' has been to illustrate that with the correct
direction and production, we have here in the town, more than enough local talent
to put on a very decent show. I would hope that on the night, the level of work and
commitment will be there for all to see. Above all, just as we are all looking
forward to performing 'for the town' we hope too that 'the town' enjoys and
appreciates all that has gone into making this year's show that little bit special!
Still Talkin'
I am delighted to have the guys with me on this project, which will let everyone
see a very different side to the band, not to mention the true level of their
musicianship. Together, we have worked very hard indeed to put together some nice
arrangements of some traditional songs. The band will also take on the role
of 'House Band' and as such will accompany most of the other performers in the show.
The Pipe Bands
For the first time in the history of 'Thursday Night Live', we have THREE
independent local pipe bands, and I am very happy to have them all in the show!
Dunoon Argyll Pipe Band
Dunoon Argyll is the longest serving of all our pipe bands, and the guys are again
delighted to be part of the show. They have been working very hard indeed over
the past few months, to ensure that you enjoy their offering as part of this year's
show. I can warn you that it would be wrong to expect the expected! I have also
been impressed with their willingness and hard work in helping me to end the
show on a definite high note!
Dunoon Grammar School Pipe Band
We can never lose sight of the importance of music, whatever the genre, within
the educational network of our schools. Dunoon Grammar School Pipe Band has
enjoyed many successes over the years, and it is always pleasing to know that we
have plenty of good players coming up through the ranks. The guys from DGS
will not only entertain us with a traditional set, but in doing so will also illustrate,
however young, just how seriously they take their music.
Cowal Pipe Band
Cowal Pipe Band is certainly the newcomer to this years 'Thursday Night Live'.
In this, its first year, the band has been working very hard to establish itself, and
sees the show as a great opportunity to raise its profile within the community.
I am also delighted that the guys were keen to join me in trying something a little
different, and I'm sure that they will prove very popular indeed. It will also be the
first chance for many of us to see the new 'Cowal Pipe Band Tartan'!
Christina Cairns School of Highland Dancing
'Thursday Night Live' just simply wouldn't be the same without the dancers from
Christina Cairns Dancing School, and so I am delighted to have them with us
again this year. We can look forward to a balanced mix of traditional dances and
more contemporary pieces, choreographed by Christina herself.
Special Guests
The sound of Scotland in the 21st century. If you have never heard or seen a
performance by Clann An Drumma, then you may be left wondering just who
exactly they are? It's simple really! Clann An Drumma means "Children of the
Drum" - an exciting, energetic and rhythmic band, from Glasgow in Scotland.
On first impressions, you might think they are "just another Scottish pipes and
drums band" - but when the percussion kicks in, you will soon realise that is not
the case. Winners of "Celtic Radio Music award (contemporary 2009)", their last
album "Tribal Heart" featured on Radio Scotland's Robbie Sheppard's programme,
creating a massive impact by being the first album in Radio History to be played
in its entirety. Clann An Drumma's thunderous approach to percussion gives a
brilliant new flair to those traditional pieces - and brings a whole new
style of music to your home.
Special Features
In Scotland's 'Year of the Homecoming', in recognition of his 250th Anniversary
we pay tribute to Rabbie Burns, with modern interpretations of some of his works.
There will be a couple of comedy/drama sequences, written specially for the
show. On top of that, the programme will also feature some special guests.
All in all, we hope to have something for everyone!
