Trad Talk 2026

Trad Talk 2026 – From Local to International Sat 7 Nov | 10.30am – 4.15pm The Tolbooth, Stirling 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. ~~~~~~~~~~ This event is free but ticketed – you must register in advance. (Tickets available to book here) Information on The Tolbooth can be found here. If you have specific access needs or dietary requirements, please contact office@tradtionalmusicforum.org. ~~~~~~~~~~ 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 Stirling’s Youth Folk Club Trad Talk 2025, Inverness Creative Academy Trad Talk is supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.