📷 Claire Frances MacNeil by Martyn MacDonald
Full registration and tickets now on sale for Edinburgh gathering of international traditional singers
The Traditional Music Forum of Scotland (TMFS) and partners are pleased to announce the launch of the North Atlantic Song Convention (NASC) 2026 programme, with registration and tickets now open for all events. The convention will take place from 6 to 8 March 2026 at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, Edinburgh, bringing together singers, scholars, and song enthusiasts from across the North Atlantic region.
NASC is an intimate, international gathering dedicated to the unaccompanied song traditions of the North Atlantic region. Created in 2020 to build meaningful connections between singers, it brings together tradition bearers, students, educators, and enthusiasts from many cultures to learn, share, and collaborate in a supportive environment. With typically 60 to 80 participants, the convention blends workshops, song circles, discussions, and performances, creating a rare space where everyone is valued equally regardless of background or experience.
Guest artists and speakers at NASC 2026 include Synnøve Brøndbo Plassen (Norway), Steve Byrne (Scotland), Óskar Freyr Guðnason (Sweden), Bennett Konesni (USA), Claire Frances MacNeil (Scotland), Angeline Morrison (England), Hazel Marsh (England), alongside three Irish singers supported by Ealaín na Gaeltachta, and two England-based singers supported by Access Folk.
The 2026 convention opens with a keynote by Angeline Morrison, the award-winning English folk singer, songwriter, and researcher whose work explores the intersections of heritage, identity, and the transformative potential of traditional song. Her address will reflect on the universality and healing power of song and consider how shared musical traditions connect people across time, place, and culture.
Registration and tickets are available via the Scottish Storytelling Centre’s online booking system. Delegates may choose a full weekend pass or book individual events. Concession rates are offered, including for TMFS members. Full programme details are available on the NASC website.
Brian Ó hEadhra, Director of NASC and the Traditional Music Forum of Scotland, said:
“We are pleased to launch the NASC 2026 programme, the first under the stewardship of the Traditional Music Forum of Scotland and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland). The expanded board and international line-up reflect our ongoing commitment to inclusive practice and Scotland’s place within our North Atlantic song traditions.”
Ceara Conway, Board Member and representative of Ealaín na Gaeltachta, said:
“Ealaín na Gaeltachta is delighted to support Cathal Ó Curráin, Ellen De Burca, and Órla Ní Fhinneadha, from the Gaeltacht regions to attend NASC 2026. Their involvement strengthens connections between singing communities and highlights the vitality of our Gaelic singing traditions.”
Esbjörn Wettermark, Board Member representing Access Folk at Sheffield University, said:
“Access Folk is proud to support Gemma Khawaja and Femi Oriogun-Williams to take part in NASC 2026. The convention remains an essential space for exchange, reflection, and participation across the North Atlantic singing community.”
Event Details
North Atlantic Song Convention (NASC) 2026
6–8 March 2026
Scottish Storytelling Centre, Edinburgh
Full weekend and individual event tickets available now.
Programme includes concerts, workshops, panels, and song circles.
Concession rates available.
Full access information, event descriptions, and booking links can be found via the Scottish Storytelling Centre website.
NASC is supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
www.northatlanticsong.com
www.traditionalmusicforum.org
www.tracscotland.org
www.scottishstorytellingcentre.com
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