Uplifting, fresh, honest and powerful music…created by three fiddles, mandolin and guitar. Expect influences of traditional Scottish and Irish music, Bluegrass, Old-Time, Classical, and new compositions, harmonies, energy, and drive.
Winners of the 2019 Belhaven Bursary for Innovation in Music – the most significant prize in Scotland, matched only by the Mercury Prize – Kinnaris Quintet burst onto the scene in 2017 with a unique, highly emotive, energetic, and powerful sound.
Their music has been described as ‘euphoric’ and combines Scottish and Irish traditional music with Bluegrass, Classical, Scandinavian and Appalachian influences. Kinnaris Quintet have produced the perfect concoction of remaining faithful to their traditional roots, whilst delicately pushing the boundaries of tradition, bringing it to the forefront of exciting and modern music.
Unable to hide their joy at making music together, the quintet perform with an enthusiasm that is infectious as anyone who has seen them live will attest. Kinnaris Quintet have become the folk band to see, with sell-out shows at Celtic Connections, appearances at most other major folk festivals, and prestigious music award nominations.
The Band:
Aileen Reid (5 string fiddle/vocals)
Fiona MacAskill (fiddle)
Laura Wilkie (fiddle)
Laura-Beth Salter (mandolin/tenor guitar/vocal)
Jenn Butterworth (guitar/stomp/vocals)
These are all accomplished musicians in their own right, but when they play together their combined energy is compelling. With an approach that is innovative, impulsive and instinctive, their music lends itself to a creative freedom that has grasped the attention of festivals, media, peers, and public audiences across Scotland, the UK, and further afield. Sales and streams of music from their debut album in over 40 countries has allowed them to reach audiences and new-found fans, worldwide.
‘Free One,’ the bands 2018 debut album, was received to great acclaim from reviewers and audiences alike:
“…. raw and yet sweetly accomplished, brawny and yet harmonically assured, and with occasional echoes of Steve Reich-like minimalism…a great example of musicians moving the tradition forward…sure appreciation of where it all begins.” The Herald
“A fearless and unconventional exploration of traditional music as this powerhouse of a band takes Irish, Scottish, and Bluegrass by the hand and spins them into an album as unique and innovative as it is technically dazzling….destined to take its place as one of the best debut albums of 2018.” Folk RadioUK
“…give full expression to their musicality, unburdened by thoughts of what should be done but instead allowing the tunes to flow through them unconstrained. The elation of the musicians at being able to play together is always in evidence and that joyous exuberance is captured perfectly.” The National
Included in the Froots ***** playlist September 2018
“Where the f*** have I been to have missed this group emerging that does EVERYTHING I LOVE?! It’sf***ing brilliant! There are so many beautiful things to say about this group…I love it!” Greg Lawson, GRIT Orchestra, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra.
Awards & Nominations
●Belhaven Bursary for Innovation in Music 2019 WINNERS
●BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards 2019 Horizon Award
●SAY Awards 2019 Longlist
●MG Alba Trad Music Awards 2019 Album of the Year
●MG Alba Trad Music Awards 2018 Folk Band of the Year
