Scots music fans plead for more cash

MORE than 200 protesters gathered outside the Scottish Parliament to protest about a lack of funding for traditional music.

Representatives from the Scots Music Group, the Traditional Music and Song Association and the Scottish Traditions of Dance Trust then met culture minister Linda Fabiani on Thursday to discuss their funding concerns.

As a result, the Scots Music Group is to approach the Scottish Arts Council to discuss short-term funding to see them through this uncertain period. Sheena Wellington, who sang at the opening of the parliament, said: "I have a huge amount of admiration for the work the Scots Music Group has done over the years.

"It's a total outrage their funding has been lost. They are the type of grassroots organisation that traditional music needs."

The Scots Music Group is about to start a new programme of classes and events and hopes more funding will be made available for community-based Scottish arts.