Who are these guys?

These guys are firm festival favourites both! And frankly neither need an introduction….

…oh, okay then. Eilidh Shaw is best known as a member of The Poozies (for 18 years now!) and Ross as guitarist with Galeic supergroup Dàimh. But of course that’s only some of what they get up to. Eilidh is the newest member of Shooglenifty, organiser of Feis na Mara, teaches fiddle and plays for many a local dance in West Lochaber. Ross is in great demand as an accompanist, playing with the likes of Kathleen MacInnes, Julie Fowlis, Karan Casey and Muireann Nic Amhlaoimh.

They are also husband and wife. And despite sharing over 15 years together, they haven’t done a lot in the way of musical collaboration…..

Why bring them to Colonsay?

… So they can do a lot in the way of musical collaboration of course! We’re bringing these 2 giants of the trad scene together for a special gig in the hotel. Exactly what we’ll get is unknown at this stage. They may have already started rehearsing, or they may just turn up and play what they feel on the day. Frankly, it doesn’t matter as it’s bound to be a highly enjoyable, top class gig. Made all the more intimate by the cosy setting. In fact Ross is twice winner of the unofficial Ceòl Cholasa Top Bants award, so we reckon his dry wit will thrive in this environment. He’s already to 2/1 favourite to pick up the award again this year…

When can I see them?

Eilidh and Ross will be playing in the hotel on Friday afternoon. This is a free gig, but the comfy sofas and armchairs in the main performance space will be strictly reserved for Full Weekend Pass holders only. And these seats will be on a first come, first served basis. Those unable to bagsy a comfy perch will be able to stand and watch the performance from the Log Room. The concert will also be piped into the main bar area for those wishing to enjoy the music over a drink and a natter with friends. Click here for a wee review of the how the inaugural hotel gig went last year, along with details of improvements for 2019.

How do I get to see them?

By purchasing a ticket of course!  Festival passes for Ceòl Cholasa 2019 are £80 and can be bought online (just follow the link). The pass gains you entry to all the concerts in the hall, the stomping late night Ceòl Ceilidh and the workshops. It also entitles you to a seat at hotel gigs (though this is strictly first come, first served).

Remember, Ceòl Cholasa is a limited, bijou event. It’s best to purchase your ticket as soon as possible as then you can rest assured that you will be one of a maximum of only 250 people attending the best wee music festival in the west!