As Celtic Connections 2026 hits the second weekend, one event stands out as a bridge between piping traditions: The Conundrum: International Piping Night, set for Saturday, January 24th at Glasgow’s City Halls. This isn’t just another concert – it’s a lively convergence of Highland pipes, Irish uilleann pipes and Breton bombards – in a night of collaborations and musical joy. In partnership with Piping Live! and supported by Creative Scotland’s Festival Expo Fund, the show promises to celebrate the depth and diversity of piping, drawing on the music that unites these cultures. Tickets are £26.14 (including booking fee), with the action kicking off at 7:30pm – grab yours now before they’re gone.
Finlay MacDonald is a key figure in pulling this together alongside Donald Shaw, and sees The Conundrum as a concert format that’s evolved over the years. “We’ve done it three or four times now, and it’s become a bit of a staple when all these great pipers are in town,” Finlay said. “This year, it’s a collaboration with Piping Live!, focusing on Scottish, Irish and Breton traditions. It’s about bringing everyone together – people who’ve crossed paths at festivals worldwide – and letting them play tunes, enjoy each other’s music, and create a show that celebrates piping in all its forms.” Finlay’s own band with Ailis Sutherland, Ali Hutton and Paul Jennings serves as the house band, providing a backbone for the evening, while Brìghde Chaimbeul will perform a solo spot. Michael McGoldrick and John McSherry bring their uilleann pipes, while Jean-Michel Veillon and Nicolas Quémener represent Brittany with the acclaimed Bagad Cap Caval. Galicia’s Ailá with their piper Maria Vazques rounds out the lineup.
Adding a fresh take on drumming is Gus Sicard and the specially assembled Celtic Connections Drum Corps – a “crack team” of versatile drummers who’ve become go-tos for these events. “Gus puts together players who can vibe along with the tunes, jumping in last minute for that spontaneous energy,” Finlay explains. “It’s a different take on a drum corps – not the ultra-meticulous practice, but more about flowing with the music.” They’ll integrate with Bagad Cap Caval’s pipes and bombards, and feature in finale numbers with Finlay’s band and others.
As for preparation? It’s deliberately light on rehearsals to preserve that elusive spark of magic. Finlay explains: “We’ve got a basic structure in place, where everyone gets their moment to shine in their own slot, and then folks jump in and out as the energy flows. The true beauty lies in the uncertainty – not knowing precisely how it’ll unfold.”
For piping enthusiasts and newcomers alike, The Conundrum embodies the festival’s ethos: honouring tradition while pushing boundaries. With under-16s welcome (accompanied by an adult) and easy access at City Halls on Candleriggs, it’s a perfect Saturday night out amid a packed Celtic Connections schedule. Don’t miss this unique gathering – head to celticconnections.com to secure your seats.