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Happy St Andrew's Day

30 Nov 23
by Nathon Jones
Highland dancers prepare to compete at Minnigaff

Trad Music Trust, The Vault Arts Centre and Newton Stewart & Minnigaff Traditional Music & Dance Festival would like to wish you all very blessed, peaceful and amazing day, this St. Andrew's day. We are very proud to be from Scotland, live in Scotland and have children and family in Scotland.

Andrew was selected as Scotland's patron saint in 1320 when Scotland made an appeal to the Pope for protection against English conquest in the famous Declaration of Arbroath.

He was seen as a suitable choice due to his position as the brother of Saint Peter, the founder of the church as well as his role as one of Jesus's disciples.

There are also a number of myths and legends used to justify Andrew's special place in Scottish history.

One such story states that the Scots are descendants of the ancient Scythians who resided in what is now Romania and Bulgaria.

Here, it is said that Andrew the Apostle converted the early Scots to Christianity before they migrated to the British Isles.

Another is that Andrew, who was known for wandering far and wide before his crucifixion, travelled as far north as Scotland to establish a church in Fife. 

(with thanks to The National for the above)

In Other News

Outstanding sponsorship support from Five Kingdoms Brewery

Serving local produce ensures that the project supports local businesses and the local community. A huge favourite are the beers from Five Kingdoms Brewery which are brewed in Isle of Whithorn. We are hugely grateful to Alastair and his team for their very generous support for this year's festival.  

12 Jul 24
Nathon Jones

Workshops at this year's festival

With so many outstanding musicians in Newton Stewart this weekend it would be foolish not to take full advantage, and we've done just that with a superb programme of traditional music workshops which are included as part of the Weekend Pass ticket, £10 per adult or £Free for under 25s.  

11 Jul 24
Nathon Jones

Highland dancing competition unable to go ahead this year

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the postponement of this year's Highland dancing competition at Newton Stewart & Minnigaff Traditional Music & Dance Festival. Continued funding cuts have meant some very difficult decisions have had to be made, however we do hope to bring this back in 2025.  

26 Jun 24
Nathon Jones

More Trad News

Trad Music Trust

The 10th annual Newton Stewart & Minnigaff Traditional Music & Dance Festival takes place over the 12th-14th July 2024. 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!

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