Fàilte!
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.
Spring term starts January 8th, 2025!
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. 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 also take part in local mòds, striving to protect and promote the Scottish Gaelic language and music.
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
Niall Tracey has been our music leader since September 2023. Niall is an enthusiast for Gaelic song and helps us feel the impact on the songs we sing of such diverse things as the effort involved in rowing, the sound of the sea on the shore and the plaintive tone of the bagpipes. He teaches in the traditional style. We learn by listening and we sing in unison. This approach is entirely appropriate as we are a small group at present. Niall learned Gaelic to fluency as an adult and uses his experience as a teacher of several languages to place emphasis on authentic pronunciation of words and phrases, which is particularly valuable.
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.