Celtic Connections reveals 2027 festival programme

The upcoming edition of Celtic Connections, one of the world’s leading folk, roots, and global music festivals, will take place in Glasgow from January 14 to 31, 2027. Now in its 34th year, the festival promises a broad array of performances from musicians representing more than 20 countries, highlighting its ongoing commitment to cultural diversity and musical innovation.

The festival’s opening event is set to showcase Scotland’s GRIT Orchestra at the Royal Concert Hall. This ensemble, originally formed to honor the late Martyn Bennett, will present new orchestral interpretations of both traditional and contemporary folk compositions, setting a dynamic tone for the weeks ahead.

A notable highlight includes a rare UK performance outside London by acclaimed film composer A.R. Rahman. His show at the Glasgow International Arena will explore the fusion of Western and Indian classical music, featuring collaborations with British artists Rushil Ranjan and Abi Sampa. This marks a significant expansion of the festival’s world music offerings and reflects its evolving global reach.

Classics from the Beatles will be reimagined during this year’s Roaming Roots Revue, an event that has become a staple of the festival. Supported by an orchestra and live band, this tribute will revisit the legendary band’s catalogue with guest artists yet to be announced.

The 2027 lineup also includes performances by José González, known for his intimate indie folk sound, the folk-rock band The Saw Doctors, Irish accordion virtuoso Sharon Shannon alongside Sir Bob Geldof, and Iona Zajac, a collaborator of The Pogues. Tribute concerts will honor influential figures such as Joni Mitchell, Glasgow folk icon Matt McGinn, and British folk-rock singer Sandy Denny, illustrating the festival’s dedication to both celebrating heritage and embracing contemporary voices.

New venues and formats will enrich this year’s event. The historic Tall Ship Glenlee will be activated as a performance space for the first time, adding maritime atmosphere to the festival experience. Additionally, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum will host two nights of concerts curated by Scottish folk singer Karine Polwart. These shows, entitled Curiosity Cabinet, will intertwine music with the museum’s collections, creating immersive narratives inspired by the exhibited objects.

Recognizing the financial challenges faced by audiences in the current economic climate, festival director Donald Shaw has introduced a membership scheme aimed at young people under 26, offering discounted tickets. Shaw emphasized the importance of maintaining affordable access despite rising production and travel costs, highlighting the festival’s role in fostering inclusivity and nurturing the next generation of folk music enthusiasts.

Shaw also reflected on the broader evolution of folk music, noting its recent intersections with genres such as jazz, electronica, orchestral, and world music. This blending has broadened both the festival’s musical scope and its audience base, aided by digital platforms and social media that have amplified folk traditions on a global scale.

Political engagement remains a hallmark of the folk tradition, a legacy embraced by Celtic Connections. The festival continues to support artists expressing diverse perspectives and social commentary through their work, acknowledging folk music’s longstanding role as a vehicle for cultural and political discourse.

The festival’s enduring appeal was evident in its previous edition, which attracted around 114,000 attendees citywide. As tickets for the 2027 festival go on sale, expectations are high for another vibrant celebration that bridges global sounds with Scotland’s rich folk heritage, reinforcing Celtic Connections as a vital platform for innovation, collaboration, and community in the world music scene.