Celtic Connections ends with “renewed sense of hope and optimism”

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Celtic Connections ended last night with a farewell concert that included a performance in The Hydro with Hazel Whyte from the National Youth Pipe Band of Scotland playing in the empty venue as two dancers performed a choreographed sequence. This was the first performance to take place in The Hydro in almost a year. Click here to watch the video. (Photo: Donald-Shaw).

The 2021 Celtic Connections festival surpassed all expectations, organisers say. The Glasgow festival, which was held entirely online over the last 19 days, closed last night.

A spokesman said: “It has been a huge success with sales (tickets and passes) surpassing expectations with 27,000 sold to audiences from over 60 countries. Over 10.5 million minutes of musical entertainment have been enjoyed. Over 100 musicians took part.”

The programme was made up of unique digital content from specially commissioned projects and performances that were filmed across many of Glasgow’s much-loved venues.

Last night’s closing concert was a 90-minute programme that took in some of the best moments of the festival.

Donald Shaw, the festival’s Creative Producer, said: “The last 19 days have instilled in us all a renewed sense of hope and optimism. Sharing our music and our culture will continue to be an essential part of our human existence and it has been incredible to be able to facilitate this, despite the challenges. The feedback we have had really shows just how important music is to people and we are delighted to have been able to help in some way brighten up the darkest January in recent history.”

Celtic Connections is delivered by the charity Glasgow Life and is funded by Glasgow City Council, Creative Scotland and The Scottish Government Festivals EXPO Fund.