Record your version of Auld Lang Syne for Make Music Day

BUDDING musicians have until 5pm on Friday to record their version of Auld Lang Syne and submit it to a massive online project. Videos of the public’s recordings will be made into a collage that will be broadcast on Make Music Day on 21 June. Make Music Day UK has commissioned composer Hamish Napier and…

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Fiona Kennedy releases ‘remembering’ EP

SINGER Fiona Kennedy drew on inspiration from Robert Burns, the Highland clearances, and the death of family friend for her latest extended play (EP), The Maple Tree (I’ll Remember You). The EP was produced by award-winning musician Calum MacColl, one of Kennedy’s friends and long-time collaborator. Kennedy said: “The theme of the EP is ‘remembering’ –…

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The perfect place to pop the question for Valentine’s

A Scots castle has created the ultimate map for men looking to propose in a romantic location this Valentine’s Day. With so many planning a proposal, the iconic Blair Castle in the heart of Highland Perthshire has launched a guide to help those confused by the countless choices to create that unforgettable moment. The Map…

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Time capsule with a love of Robert Burns discovered

A time capsule discovered in Leith containing relics from the 19th century has offered a glimpse into locals’ love of the national bard, on the eve of Burns Night. The cache of mementos was unearthed by contractors working on the City of Edinburgh Council’s Trams to Newhaven project in December, when the Robert Burns statue…

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Upturn in interest for Burns Night searches online

Interest in Burns Night has grown internationally over the past four years. Ahead of Burns Night this Saturday trusted data provider SEMrush  has released new research illustrating that global interest in the national celebration is soaring. SEMrush analysed Google Search volumes from January 2016 and January 2019 Global Google searches for Burns Night and its…

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Two alternative Scots spirits to toast Burns Night

If you’re not into whisky but want to toast the Bard with something special, some other award-winning Scots spirits are being suggested. Burns Night celebrations wouldn’t be complete without a dram of whisky, but for those who prefer white spirits, Eight Lands Organic Speyside Gin and Vodka provide a perfect alternative whilst giving a nod…

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Some good ideas to mark Burns Night 2020

A celebration of music, poetry, food, drink and friendship, few birthdays are as unifying as that of Robert Burns on 25 January. Haggis takes centre stage at any Burns supper so here are a few ways to celebrate this ‘Great chieftain o the puddin’-race’. Haggis at home from Balgove Larder, St Andrews If you’re hosting…

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A Muckle of Burns on BBC Scotland

An examination of the life, works and legacy of Robert Burns is being offered in a new documentary amid a muckle of programming for the Bard on the BBC Scotland channel. Presented by novelist, playwright and performer Alan Bissett, Inside the Mind of Robert Burns takes a detailed look at the man, rather than the…

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When Burns became the talk of the capital

Robert Burns arrived unknown in Edinburgh in 1786, but within days the ‘Ploughman Poet’ was the talk of the town. This colourful guide to Burns’ associations with the city chronicles the places he visited and people he met. With easy-to-follow routes through Edinburgh arranged by the people and places who influenced the Bard, this is…

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The world’s first haggis, neeps and tatties crisps

Scotland will finally be able to enjoy the world-renowned flavour of haggis, neeps and tatties in potato crisp form, thanks to a brand synonymous with traditional Scottish flavours. Due to hit the shelves from early January, Mackie’s Crisps has taken inspiration from the Bard himself, Robert Burns, and is bringing consumers a snack-based taste of…

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