Trad Talk 2026 - From Local to International

From the kitchen to the stadium – local, national, and international challenges and opportunities.
 
Trad Talk is the Traditional Music Forum of Scotland‘s (TMFS) flagship annual gathering, bringing together performers, educators, promoters, and enthusiasts from across the traditional music community.

This event creates space for meaningful dialogue on issues facing our sector. This year’s theme is From Local to International. We will explore the challenges and opportunities for traditional Scottish music at local, national, and international levels.

Join us to connect with peers, share insights, and celebrate Scotland’s traditional music scene. The day will include the AGM of the TMFS. Complimentary lunch is provided as well as a short performance from Stirling’s Youth Folk Club.

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This event is free but ticketed - you must register in advance.

Information on The Tolbooth can be found here.
If you have specific access needs or dietary requirements, please contact [email protected].

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Schedule

(Keynote Speaker and Panellists will be announced soon)

10.30am	Registration and tea/coffee
11.00am	Welcome & Keynote Address With Q&A
11.30am	Panel 1: The ‘Kitchen’ (Home and Community Events) Sessions, House Concerts, and Community Spaces – focussing on informal learning, local sessions, and celebrating cèilidh culture.
12.05pm	Comfort Break
12.10pm	Breakout Groups Discuss topics raised in the Kitchen Panel.
12.25pm	Panel 2: The ‘Concert Hall’ (National Events) The Medium Scale – challenges in regional touring, national funding, educational offerings, festivals, and the role of Scotland’s arts organisations in supporting artists nationwide.
1.00pm	Breakout Groups Discuss topics raised in the National Panel.
1.15pm	Lunch & Networking
1.45pm	Live Music Performance Enjoy an acoustic performance from Stirling’s Youth Folk Club.
2.05pm	AGM
2.30pm	Panel 3: The ‘Stadium’ (International & Global) The Global Stage – international trad acts, international export challenges, digital streaming realities, and showcase festivals.
3.05pm	Breakout Groups Discuss topics raised in the International Panel.
3.20pm	Comfort Break
3.25pm	Feedback from All Group Discussions
4.00pm	Closing Remarks & Reflections
4.15pm	End

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Trad Talk is supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.

The Traditional Music Forum of Scotland (TMFS) aims to develop, sustain, support and maximise the potential of traditional music in Scotland.