Press Release

With all of Scotland gearing up for the Homecoming celebrations in 2009, to mark the 250th anniversary of the birth of national Bard, Robert Burns, there are high-profile events being staged from Gretna to John O’Groats.

…and Paisley will be one of the first to get the party going when Gaelic superstar Karen Matheson (the voice of the hugely popular band, Capercaillie) brings some of the country’s top musicians to the town for a candle-lit concert in Paisley Abbey.

The event, being staged on Friday, January 23, is expected to draw crowds from far and wide when Karen, appearing with James Grant and Ewen Vernal, and joined by a string section, perform a programme of specially-selected Burns songs as well as traditional Gaelic vocal treasures.

Those attending will also enjoy a performance by the highly-acclaimed Glasgow Gaelic Choir.

Karen says that Paisley Abbey is one of her favourite architectural gems.

Speaking about the show she said: “The Abbey is so gorgeous and I feel very privileged to have been asked to perform there.

“It is steeped in history and has the most amazing acoustics. I am really looking forward to the evening.

“We have put together a programme that will premiere in Paisley as it has not been performed anywhere else.

“It only feels right that we created something special for such a beautiful performance space.”

* Tickets for the show are priced £16 & £14 (plus booking fee) are on sale now from Marks & Spencer in High Street, Paisley, The Tourist Information Centre in the town and from Tickets Scotland, 239 Argyle Street, Glasgow 08702201116 or www.tickets-scotland.co.uk

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