A European singing competition aimed at Celtic, Scots and other minority languages which is to be held in Inverness this year, is attracting widespread international interest.

Nòs Ùr, meaning 'new style' in Gaelic, is a Celtic and Scots language competition which will see performers vying for the honour to perform at a Grand European Final. First they must win the regional final being held on June 20th at Eden Court Theatre in Inverness (Scotland). Judging is done by experts and via public vote on the night and on the internet.

Last year's inaugural competition attracted numerous entries for its 2008 launch from all over the UK, Ireland and Brittany. Now entries are en route from Shetland at the very north of the UK, Brittany in France, and many points in between.

Event organiser Brian Ó hEadhra said: "The inaugural Nòs Ùr was a great success and we're looking forward to attracting even more talent to this year's event. Submissions are still welcome in Scottish Gaelic, Irish, Scots, Ulster Scots, Manx, Welsh, Cornish, and Breton.

"New songs and contemporary styles are encouraged and there will be a separate minority language concert on Friday 19th June to give teenage acts under the age of 18 and opportunity to perform, so all ages can get involved.

"Entries are welcome for the 2009 contest and artistes have until February 28th to send in their applications. The winners will receive major industry and media interest, especially when they go onto the Grand European final and represent their own languages."

The regional final will again take place at Eden Court Theatre on 20th June. Other related events on the day will include a conference on minority languages hosted by UHI Millennium Institute, and a number of music industry workshops for teenage bands singing in minority languages.

The event is being staged by goEvents which promotes and develops creative arts in the Highlands and Islands. It is supported by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), Highland Council, Colmcille, Scottish Arts Council, Bord na Gaidhlig and MG ALBA.

 
 

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