Fèis Alba gives participants the opportunity to learn more about a range of key skills that will be of use to them as they develop as aspiring semi or fully professional musicians.  The Fèis, funded by Fèisean nan Gàidheal, the Scottish Arts Council, The Highland Council and Highlands & Islands Enterprise has proved especially useful to participants of Cèilidh Trails.  It provides an opportunity for musical training, as well as an opportunity for young people with similar interests to share their creativity.

 Fèisean nan Gàidheal Development Officer Nicola Marshall said: "Fèis Alba has developed over the past few years to become the ideal training opportunity for young musicians and musical standards continue to get better and better.  I am very much looking forward to seeing the Cèilidh Trails extended throughout the Western Isles and beyond in future years.

 Participants will benefit from the expert tuition of well-known traditional musicians including Fraser Stone, Ingrid Henderson and Donald Shaw who will help them prepare for their forthcoming tours.

 The aim of the Cèilidh Trails is to offer employment and professional development opportunities to young musicians and work with local organisations and businesses to develop cultural tourism opportunities. The Cèilidh Trails have established themselves over the last six years and this year venues and audiences across the Highlands and Islands will benefit from the skills of talented young musicians. The Cèilidh Trails will be kicked off with a joint concert at Plockton High School Pupil Residence on Thursday 3^rd July at 7.30pm.