North Atlantic Song Convention

The North Atlantic Song Convention (NASC) is an inclusive international network which promotes, celebrates and supports our North Atlantic song traditions.  

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News Release: North Atlantic Song Convention 2024 - Registration Now Open



The North Atlantic Song Convention (NASC) is delighted to announce that registration for its 2024 event is now open. Traditional singers, educators, students, and folk music enthusiasts from across the North Atlantic region are invited to attend this annual celebration of song and cultural exchange.


NASC takes place in Edinburgh, Scotland between 22-24 March 2024 and will welcome guest speakers and the finest singers from across the North Atlantic region including Canada, USA, Iceland, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, England, Sweden, and Latvia.  


The convention hosts talks, workshops, panels, song circles, concerts, and more.  Individuals can purchase weekend or day passes, with the option to buy tickets for specific events. In a commitment to accessibility, student passes are available at half-price.  


Brian Ó hEadhra, NASC Co-convenor, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "NASC brings together voices from diverse communities, fostering a rich exchange of musical traditions and ideas. We're thrilled to welcome participants to share in this celebration of folk song and indigenous cultural heritage."


Emma Björling, NASC Co-convenor, added, "Anyone interested in folk song is welcome to attend.  We will host a diverse range of guest singers and speakers including community tradition bearers, industry experts, and academics.  There’s lots to learn and everyone is welcome to sing!"


NASC is funded by Creative Scotland National Lottery funding and supported by Traditional Arts & Culture Scotland (TRACS), reflecting a commitment to the preservation and celebration of cultural traditions.


To register and explore the programme of events, visit the Scottish Storytelling Centre website or the NASC website.  


For media inquiries, contact:

Brian Ó hEadhra, northatlanticsong@gmail.com


About NASC:

The North Atlantic Song Convention (NASC) is a network dedicated to the development and celebration of folk songs from the North Atlantic region. NASC fosters collaboration, knowledge exchange, and cultural enrichment among traditional singers and enthusiasts.  


Event Details:


Date: 22-24 March 2024

Location: Scottish Storytelling Centre, Edinburgh, Scotland

Registration: Follow links on the NASC Website: https://www.northatlanticsong.com/events/convention-2024 

Social Media: Follow NASC on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/northatlanticsong for updates and highlights.  


Guest Singers and Speakers include:
Professor Mairéad Nic Craith (Ireland/Scotland)

Bláithín Mhic Cana (Ireland)

Dr Ingrid Åkesson (Sweden) 

Jordan Price Williams (Wales) 

Kit Knight Folk (England)

Linus Orri (Iceland)

Eilidh Cormack (Scotland)

Josie Duncan (Scotland)

Dr Thomas McKean (Scotland/USA)

Professor Fay Hield (England)

Daina Zalane (Latvia) 

Zane Šmite (Latvia)

Steve Byrne (Scotland)

Tom Besford (England)

Emma Böjrling (Sweden)

David Francis (Scotland)

Brian Ó hEadhra (Scotland/Ireland/Canada)

Dr Esbjörn Wettermark (Sweden/England)