Folk at the Salmon Bothy based in Portsoy, has donated a four figure sum to the Folk in Crisis Support Fund to assistmusicians across the north east affected by loss of income due to current restrictions imposed as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.
The fund, created in partnership by Stonehaven Folk Club and Hands Up For Trad, has already raised in excess of £8000, which will be distributed to help those unable to work meetongoing living expenses. Applications for support are invited via the Hands Up For Trad website, www.handsupfortrad.org
Bob Philips, Folk at the Salmon Bothy chairman, commented,“We are all missing the music sessions we enjoy, however more importantly, the current situation has had an adverse impact on the income of many musicians. Scores of performances and events have been cancelled, with no current timescale as to when performers may again take to the stage for live events. As a group of music enthusiast, who very much enjoy the work of our peers and fellow performers, we wanted to help by contributing towards alleviating some of the ongoing hardships and worries they are experiencing.”
Folk at the Salmon Bothy, which hosts a variety of traditional music events and gatherings, has also recently launched weekly online folk music sessions as it joins many others inadapting its offering due to current restrictions.
The weekly music sessions are broadcast via the group’s website and social media channels, allowing current and new members to join in and enjoy the entertainment from the safety of their own homes.
Folk at the Salmon Bothy, was forced to cancel its flagship HAAL event planned for the beginning of June. The annual HAAL is a celebration of tradition and culture, through music, songs and stories, attracting a large audience from across Scotland and beyond.
The group however hopes to host a Short HAAL on 23 & 24 October 2020 if circumstances permit. Full details will be available in due course on the Folk at the Salmon Bothy website and social media platforms.
