Memories of conductor Hamish Menzies as uplifting massed choirs event set to return to Gaelic showcase event the Royal National Mòd
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When Gaelic massed choirs join together for a final uplifting song at the Royal National Mòd in Inverness next weekend the thoughts of many will turn to the late Hamish Menzies.
The event, due to run for nine days from October 8, will include an inspirational outdoor choir performance at the Northern Meeting Park in Inverness on October 16 at 10.30am.
Mr Menzies, who recently passed away, is widely credited with developing the massed choir concept at Mòds dating back 30 years.
The performance is free and will be open to all, with this year’s outing to take place 30 years on from the first mass event in Dingwall.
James Graham, chief executive of organisers An Comunn Gàidhealach, said: “We can’t wait to put Gaelic culture in the spotlight again with this year’s Royal National Mòd. The hybrid approach of in-person and online events means that there is something for everyone. We’re delighted to include the addition of an outdoor Massed Choirs performance to this year’s programme, and close the events in a traditional and poignant style.”
The Mòd, the premier celebration of Gaelic culture, had been due to come to the Highland capital last year, but was postponed due to Covid.
The event started on Friday and will see a mix of online and in-person events with a reduced programme of children and adults competitions to be held at Eden Court.
The inspirational outdoor choir performance will take place at the Northern Meeting Park on October 16 at 10.30am.
The performance is free and will be open to all, with this year’s outing to take place 30 years on from the first mass event in Dingwall.
James Graham, chief executive of organisers An Comunn Gàidhealach, said: “We’re delighted to include the addition of an outdoor Massed Choirs performance to this year’s programme, and close the events in a traditional and poignant style.
“It is always a joy to witness and will be extra special this year for those performing – the perfect event to finish off an incredible week.”
Chairman of Highland Council’s Gaelic committee, Councillor Calum Munro, said: “Hopefully we have a stunning autumn morning in which to enjoy the event, and that all participants and spectators can begin their journey home reflecting on a fantastic Royal National Mòd in Inverness.”
Jackie Cotter, chairwoman of the Gaelic Choirs’ Association, said: “All of the groups involved in the Massed Choirs event are really looking forward to performing in Northern Meeting Park this October.
“It will be a really special performance to round off the incredible festival, especially as many of the choirs have not performed for an audience for a very long time.”
The full Mòd programme can be viewed at www.ancomunn.co.uk, with tickets available from Eden Court.
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