Folk club welcomes acclaimed artist

Isla will be showcasing material from her debut album, ‘The Castalia’, as well as performing a selection of new songs with her talented trio, featuring Ellen Gira on cello and Iona Reid on piano.

Hailing from Edinburgh, Isla is well-known on the Scottish music scene as an extremely versatile composer, arranger, fiddle player and singer.

Much of her inspiration comes from her love of traditional music, and the powerful sense of community it holds when bringing people of all backgrounds together.

Having grown up immersed in music, Isla was performing from an early age, and shared the stage with classical superstar Nicola Benedetti at Edinburgh’s Usher Hall at just 13 years old.

Her new album features both traditional and self-penned tunes based on the time she spent in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia in 2019.

The trip made a lasting impact her musically, allowing her to uncover a new repertoire and inspiring a fresh approach to interpreting tunes.

Commenting on the new album, Isla said: “The Castalia was a joy to create.

"I fell in love with the music, culture and people of Cape Breton, and by channelling my time spent there into this record, it makes the whole experience come to life again every time I play it.

“The music on the album is all about bringing people together, and it celebrates the power of music in doing so.

"I can’t wait to perform it to the lovely people of Montrose, and experience that feeling of togetherness and community that only live music can bring.

“I’m excited to be singing on tour too, as well as playing fiddle.

"I’m really looking forward to performing with Ellen, who features heavily on the album, and Iona, both of whom are fantastic musicians.

"It’s a privilege to create music with them.”

Isla will play Montrose Folk Club on Tuesday, April 25 and tickets are available now from https://islaratcliff.com/gigs/.