Next term starts September 3rd 2025
Come sing with us!
Còisir Dhùn Èideann (Edinburgh Gaelic Choir) meets for rehearsals:
When: Wednesday evenings 19:15 – 21:15
Where: Quaker Meeting House, 7 Victoria Terrace, EH1 2JL
Who? Anyone!
We welcome anyone with an interest in Gaelic and/or singing. Members have access to resources such as sound files for words and music as well as translations.
For more information please contact Coisir-DhunEideann@hotmail.co.uk or just come along! You are welcome to join at any point in the term.
About Còisir Dhùn Èideann
ABout uS
Còisir Dhùn Èideann is one of Scotland’s longest established Gaelic choirs, being a combination of two choirs, one of which was formed at the turn of the 20th century. In the past we have taken part in the National Mòd, a yearly celebration of Scottish Gaelic music and culture, established in 1891 that takes place across various parts of Scotland. We have also taken part in local mòds, striving to protect and promote the Scottish Gaelic language and music. Currently, however, we are a small group of enthusiasts and our direction has changed. We aim to enjoy and explore Gaelic language and song and, unlike most Gaelic choirs, we don’t focus on competitions. Our rehearsals are relaxed, workshop-style sessions.
We are always extremely happy to welcome new members into the fold. There is never any pressure to take part in performances and there is no audition process, so whether you are completely new to Gaelic, returning, or fluent, Còisir Dhùn Èideann is a fantastic starting point.
Our Conductor
We are looking for a new leader/conductor to take us from the beginning of next term (September 3rd 2025). John Mortimer, a former conductor of the choir who left us in June 2023, has been conducting us since February in preparation for a performance of Ceòl Na Mara, the cantata, based on original poems by Miles Campbell, he wrote for the choir during lockdown. The performance went ahead on June 21st 2025 and was a great success but John had always meant this as a temporary arrangement which is why we are now without a leader/conductor.
Why sing in Gaelic?
An oppressed language, Gaelic was forcibly removed from the people of Scotland along with their culture and way of life. Until as recently as the early 20th century, children were beaten in schools for using the Gaelic language. By singing in Gaelic you can contribute to the reclamation of this beautiful and ancient Scottish language, preserving our culture and heritage.
Learning a second language also gives your brain a great mental workout; It can help to delay dementia and improve memory and concentration. Joining a Choir can aslo help to foster a sense of inclusion, helping with mental health issues, widening social circles and reducing loneliness.