Young musicians to represent isles in national competition

A trio of young Shetland musicians is participating in this year’s prestigious National Association of Accordion and Fiddle Clubs competiton.

The annual event is being staged at the Macdonald Inchyra Grange Hotel in Falkirk on Saturday 5th March.

Collectively known as Fjanna, the group comprises Mike Laurenson, 13, on accordion, Jodie Smith, 13, on fiddle and Anya Johnston, 12, on fiddle and piano.

They have entered the group, duet and solo sections of the competition, working hard to ensure a polished performance and looking forward to representing the isles.

The youngsters – students of Peter Wood, Eunice Henderson and Violet Tulloch – have also been invited to play at various venues in and around Glasgow, as well as making a special visit to the city’s Royal Conservatoire of Music and taking part in a musical exchange event hosted by BBC Radio Scotland’s Vic Galloway.

Ms Henderson, who is accompanying and supporting the students on their trip said: “This is a very valuable opportunity for Mike, Jodie and Anya to showcase their talent, hard work and commitment to traditional Scottish music at a national level.

“They have rehearsed diligently and we are all very excited at the prospect of this trip.”