SNP pledge to create new performing arts company for traditional music sector

A new arts body could be set up for Scotland’s traditional music sector, the SNP has said.

The party is pledging to establish a new National Performing Company for Traditional Music if it wins the May 7 Scottish election.

The policy is contained with the SNP election manifesto, which will be unveiled by leader John Swinney on Thursday.

Ahead of that, campaign director Angus Robertson said the establishment of a national performing body for the traditional music sector was exactly the type of bold policy that will deliver for Scotland’s cultural sector”.

Mr Robertson, also the Scottish Government’s Culture Secretary, stated: “Scotland is world renowned for our traditional music which is thriving amongst young people here in Scotland and I am proud that the SNP is firmly on the side of Scotland’s arts and culture.

“Connecting our past with our present is something that should be protected and encouraged to flourish and that’s exactly what this manifesto commitment will bring.”

The Edinburgh Central SNP candidate continued: “The legacy of Scotland’s traditional music can be traced through the music of America and modern song – it’s a history to be proud of and one that the SNP will always stand shoulder to shoulder with.

“Giving traditional music the same platform that is afforded to other performing arts is exactly how we back a music scene that is populating music festival across Scotland and the world.

“This new body will give emerging and established talents the backing to grow and ply their trade.”