Boosting Our Economy - Celebrating Our Culture - Enhancing Our Children's Education

Boosting Our Economy - Celebrating Our Culture - Enhancing Our Children's Education

News & Events

New Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund series explores Ulster-Scots music traditions 



Date Posted: January 11, 2023

A new series of short films will explore the thriving scene of young Ulster-Scots musicians passionate about their craft. From Pipe Bands to individual musicians the series entitled ‘Ulster-Scots Music Traditions’ will showcase how music and playing in bands branches out into the wider lives and communities of local talented young people. 

Produced by Paul Consiglia for Third Street Studios with funding from Northern Ireland Screen’s Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund the series can be streamed on the Discover Ulster-Scots website and NVTV on demand. 

Producer/Director Paul Consiglia from Third Street Studios commented: Music runs deep through the lives of Ulster-Scots people. It unites, it stirs, and transfers knowledge through generations. And today in Northern Ireland there is a thriving scene of young musicians passionate about their craft. From the whirring of drum major Louise’s mace to the ratt-a-tat of snare drummer Arren, the incredible skills and techniques required are put on display in the ‘Ulster-Scots Music Traditions’ series for all to enjoy.”

  The six-part short film series will document the lives of young Ulster-Scots musicians and inspire others to get involved with practical information on how to play traditional instruments such as the Highland Bagpipes and the snare drum as well as provide rarely seem glimpses into competitive life.

  Heidi McAlpin, Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund Executive added: “Ulster-Scots Music Traditions’ is a fantastic showcase of the skills and dedication needed to excel in this discipline. The next generation of musicians are leading the way in preserving the unique sounds of the pipes and drums, and the Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund is delighted to have helped Third Street Studios bring their stories to the screen.”

  Viewers can expect to see Hollymount Pipe Band prepare for competition, two sisters Ashley and Christie get ready for examination and Shaun Townsley share a lesson on how to play the Highland Bagpipes, Arren McWilliams detail the rhythm required for the snare drum and much more.  

© 2024 Northern Ireland Screen. All Rights Reserved