Hebridean festival scores hat-trick of acclaim 7/3/13
For the third year in succession the Hebridean Celtic Festival has been selected
as one of the top 10 UK summer festivals by an influential publication.
World music magazine Songlines, which features artists from around the globe, has
chosen the HebCelt as the only Scottish festival in its 2013 list, alongside the
likes of Glastonbury and the Cambridge Folk Festival.
The event features headliners Van Morrison, Dougie MacLean, Capercaillie, The Battlefield
Band and the Red Hot Chilli Pipers in its 18th anniversary this year.
Songlines editor Matt Milton said: “Songlines has long been a fan of the HebCelt
festival. This is the third year that we’ve included it in our Top 10 UK festivals,
and for very good reason. HebCelt puts on a great mix of big-name legends, traditional
Scottish musicians and up-and-coming singer-songwriters.
“It does exactly what a 21st century folk festival ought to, and the setting – Stornoway
itself – really sets it apart from other festivals. You feel like you’re getting
away from it all.
“We’re particularly pleased to see Songlines favourites such as Lau and Karine Polwart
on this bill, who we’ve championed within the mag over the years.”
Festival Director, Caroline MacLennan, said “This recognition from Songlines is fantastic
news, particularly as it is the third year in a row we have made the Top 10.
“HebCelt’s unique setting and great blend of music already help us attract people
from many parts of the world and this further enhances our reputation at home and
abroad.”