Organizers have confirmed the five finalists for the Battle of the Folk Bands 2026, held during Celtic Connections in Glasgow.
The shortlisted acts are: Àirdan, Evie Waddell Band, Ketu, Raivelt, and The Way North.
A panel of musicians selected the bands from submissions received from across Scotland, highlighting the current strength of the traditional Scottish music scene. Judges cited musicality, originality, and contemporary interpretations of Scottish tradition as key factors in their decision.
The finalists will perform live in the grand final at Celtic Connections:
- Date: Saturday 31 January 2026
- Time: 1:00 pm
- Venue: Celtic Connections, Glasgow
- Tickets: https://www.celticconnections.com/event/9/battle-of-the-folk-bands/
One winner will be announced on the day and will receive future performance opportunities at Celtic Connections, along with one day of recording at GloWorm Recording Studios in Glasgow.
Author: World Music Central News Room
World music news from the editors at World Music Central